DanceTalk - The Archives
September 2006
Thank for
Visiting the Archieves of Ron's Dance Talk
Ron Bess & daughter
picture courtesy of Eric Novoa
LINKS of INTEREST - for HUSTLE
Click on Flames to Burn on to the -
From iTunes & Mark James
DanceTalk * 9-26-06
Happy Birthday wishes to Wendy Bess, Sunny Leigh, Natalie
Patrussi, Sue Edelstein, Chris Harding, Dominick Lauriano, Kathi O'Neil
and Barb Marrone.
Gladys Torres had a nice little birthday party at her rehab
center last week. There were about a dozen family and friends
at the peak of the evening. A few other friends were
filtering in & out all evening. Her brother, sister &
dad surprised her by showing up this weekend. Her dad, incidentally,
shares the same birthday! So it was a
double party!
Hold this date, November 26, from 1PM - 6PM a benefit - fund raiser at
the Stardust Ballroom in Pennsauken, NJ, for Lydia Pezzetti. We
welcome the dance community to come together and join us for a day of
celebrating for Lydia. Although "Gina" her nickname, had a brain tumor
removed, it is a much more serious problem than previously thought. She
is facing a long serious health battle. She needs all our support. Gina
is a regular at Michael's Cafe in Bensalem Pa. More details coming.
He can capture you in a flash, with the flick of his finger, Sam
Habet, the photographers photographer specializes in dance.
He will be available to shoot you in action, competing or posing at the
following events: Virginia State Open (Sep 28 - Oct 1) The Nashville
Classic (November 2 - 4), New Orleans (End of November) World Salsa
Championship, Las Vegas (Dec.) World Dance Championships
(Nashville) (End of Dec) visit Sam on line at, http://www.samsSnapshots.com
A "teacher training course" begins this Wednesday, Sept 27th, at Dance
Manhattan with Ed Britten in Foxtrot and Waltz.
39 West 19th Street, 5th Floor New York, NY http://www.dancemanhattan.com
Next week, we will continue our focus on the Future of the
Hustle. Many new views and responses to last weeks letters
have come in. We have received over 100 letters on this topic. Please
continue to share your thoughts. I am committed to helping to grow the
hustle dance. I believe it starts with awareness and discussion.
However, I will not print letters that attack any one individual. I
don't feel that it is helpful or a healthy way to work out any problem.
We are looking for constructive ways to help stimulate new interest in
the dance we all love. Stay tuned, you don't want to miss
these incredible letters next week.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Henry Stone
Music.
A new charity project produced by Henry Stone, a very special CD to
benefit The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind. It is called Instrumental
Magic and commemorates the contributions of blind musicians &
artists, Jose Feliciano, Ray Charles, and Stevie Wonder. It is now
available for sale at http://www.henrystonemusic.com.
Make it a great week,
Ron
The Best Dance Songs - Part 1
Not only are they great dancers, teachers and wonderful people, they
have fine taste when it comes to dance music. These are the
professionals that have helped shape and teach the world how to dance
the hustle. Many of our contributors are hustle pioneers, members of
the Hustle Hall Of Fame and started doing the hustle in the early 70's.
Did you ever wonder what their favorite songs are? Here is what the
best dancers in the country love to dance to. I'm sure your
enjoy.
(Thank you, to all these professionals, for sharing their picks with
our readers, stay tuned for Part 2).
RB
Gregory Harrison - Calif. - teacher, competitor
Begin the Beguine / Johnny Mathis
Moonlight Serenade / Tuxedo Junction
Romeo & Juliet / Alec R Constindinos
Erik Novoa - CT - Platinum Dance, competitor, teacher, DJ
Last Dance - Donna Summer
I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor
Gia - Despina Vandi
Raye Avery - TX - competitor, teacher, Dance Fever
Shakira - Hips Don't Lie
Jon Secada - All I Really Want Is You
Eddie Kendrick's - Date With The Rain
Louis Del Prete - L. I. teacher, organizer
1. Begin the Beguine (Johnny Mathis)
2. Souvenirs (Voyages)
3. Shine on Silvermoon (Marilyn McCoo)
Minnie Ruiz - Hawaii - teacher, The Soap Factory
"underwater" -Harry Thurman
"gonna get over you" - France Joli
"get another love"
Roberto pagan - NJ - Pioneer Dance, competitor, teacher
1. LAST DANCE - DONNA SUMMER
2. DON'T LET ME BE MISUNDERSTOOD- SANTA ESMERALDO
3. HEAVEN MUST BE MISSING AN ANGEL- TAVARES
Derrick Allen - L. I. - competitor, adjudicator
Shine on Silver Moon
Don't Take Away The Music
Excited
Marie Izzo - S.C. - All The Right Moves Studio - teacher
Dancing Queen - Abba
Nelly Cotto - NY - Hustle Hall Of Fame (Life Time Achievement)
1. Ten Percent
2. Happy Song
3. A Thousand Shades of Blue
Ava Apple - Calif. - Teacher, competitor
"King Kong" by Barry White
"Date with the rain" by Eddie Kendrick's
Donna DeSimone - L. I. - Teacher, performer, competitor,
1."Here I Am"...........................Dynasty
2."My Love Is Free"..................Double Exposure
3."You Know How To Love Me"....Yafuri
Jose Gonzalez - NJ - performer, teacher, Dance Fever
"To Be With You" {Jimmy Sabateer}
"Like
Her"
{Gentlemen and Their Ladies}
"The More I Get, The More I Want" {Teddy Pendergrass"}
Donna Boyle - PA - Disco America - organizer, Teacher,
1 Melba Moore - Pick Me up I'll dance
2 Calenta - Jingo
3 Shakira - Hips Don't Lie
4 Paul Jabara - Honeymoon in Peurto Rico
Rodger Stanton - NC - Star Search, Teacher, DJ
Whistle song - Frankie Knuckles
Love is In You - Night life unlimited
young Hearts - Candi Stanton
Lori Brizzi - NY - NY Hustle Congress - organizer,
teacher,
1. Feed The Flame, Lorraine Johnson
2. Woman..Barabas
3. Do the Spanish Hustle, The Fat Back Band
4. Another Star by Stevie Wonder
Gary Ulaner - Calif. - competitor, teacher
Disco: "What is Love" by Haddaway
Alternative: "Alexanderplato Tango" by Tanghetto
Guilty pleasure: " Copacabana" by Barry Manilow
Bill K. - L. I. - teacher, competitor
1. Pure Love - Crystal Waters
2. Don't Leave Me This Way - Thelma Houston
3. I'd Rather - Luther Vandross
Tony Pace - TX - Cinco Di Mya - organizer, Teacher, competitor
Zing Went the Strings of My Heart - Trammps
And the Beat Goes On - The Whistlers
Set Adrift on Memory Bliss - PM Dawn
Jim Dolan - Anchorage, Alaska - Teacher
1 Native New Yorker “ Odyssey
2 Do Ya Think Im Sexy “ NTrance Feat. Rod Stewart
3 Brooklyn Heights “ Down To The Bone
Letters to the editor
Dear Ron,
I know I'm not the only one who complains when the music is too
fast. Contrary to comments made in this week's (last week's)
newsletter, it's hard to style and play when you're just trying to keep
up. As with everything, variety is probably the key to
success.
Playfully,
Jena©
>>>>>>>>>>>
Ron,
I also agree with Lisa in the last newsletter! Too many DJs
play nothing but the same "tired" 30 year-old music. How many
times can we dance to the same old thing? I like to refer to them as
Bar Mitzvah Classics. Aside from Bobby Morales mentioned in this week's
Dance Talk, I'd like to add that DJ Chris on Tuesday nights at IBBG
plays a great selection of Hustle Danceable music.
Robin Amante
>>>>>>>>>>>
Ron,
You have been a great friend and associate. All these many
years you have not forgotten my birthday and like so many others I
appreciate you for remembering and also for your dedication to the
dance community. Since 911 five years ago my birthday on 912 has
changed. I thank God for the day after, when the worst day in
our history happened I celebrate life the next day. I love
dancing and I miss being there on Tuesday's at Michael's but I will be
back. Sometimes serving your country means
sacrifice. Not being there for a birthday dance is a
sacrifice.
I also want to thank all the people who have been supportive and
understanding through the years. Some I have known
for over 20 years and some recently. I pray for the day when
we can all live in peace, laugh together and dance no matter who might
be watching. No matter where I am, I look forward to
reading Dance Talk. It brings a little piece of home
and the joy of good friends close to my heart.
As usual, I can't say where I am or what I am doing, LOL, but thank you
for remembering my birthday. I'll take a rain check from the
rest of you when I return.
God blessed us all,
K@
>>>>>>>>>>>
Ron I was at the
Hustle Congress. Just put Donna DeSimone on the Champions
list where she belongs. Anyone who wasn't there really missed a special
moment. The crowd went berzerk! Derrick came out of retirement after 25
years and did what he used to do 25 years ago. Just dance and win.I
think maybe everyone else may have to rethink their approach
to their routines. Anyone who watches the pro's
dance either socially or in a Just Hustle competition knows who the
best male and female is. And oh yeah they danced together at the Hustle
Congress and gave all of us who were there a moment we'll all never
forget.
SHS
>>>>>>>>>>>
Hi Ron, In response to some music complaints,I can understand how some
Dancers feel because I am an avid old school hustler as well as a D.J.
I agree that the music I hear is too slow & not inspiring. I
disagree that the old music is too slow. When I started to hustle in
73'-74' the original music was slower. As the music became faster
76'-80' the dance evolved to the rope hustle, latin, & kick
hustle to what I do today. Most of my old hustle
friends are used to faster songs. The New York Style hustle is
slower than what I prefer,& this music seems to be played more
often today. I believe the D.J.s should play new music as well as
classic dance music. I have gone to many events waiting to hear a good
song to dance to, but ended up sitting more than dancing.The best music
would be selected by the competitors in the advanced divisions but not
played during open dancing....I believe a good D.J. should
consider requests and play for the dancers.....Bob
DanceTalk * 9-19-06
Happy Birthday wishes to Ester
Hohenberger, Steven Wright, Debbie
Spagler and Brian Fortuna.
You don't want to miss the All Open & Rising Star professional
events with a $100,000. total purse. Plan to attend San Juan, Puerto
Rico November 1st - 5th, 2006 for The Caribbean Dancesport
Classic. Warm up and make it a competition vacation. See all
the details below. http://www.caribbeandancesport.com
Hott off the press, Vince Montana Jr. has a new
release featuring "Double Exposure" (best known for their hit "Ten
Percent"). The new song, "You Are My Everything" has the trademark
"Vince" sound, reminiscent of the Salsoul Orchestra days, visit Philly
Sound Works for availability http://www.phillysoundworks.com
Night Club Mirage is back and better then ever. Award winning DJ -
mixologist Jenny Costa spins every Friday night for
the happy Hour party in long Island.
Keep your ears open for these new dance songs:
All Around The World - Lionel Richie, Sexyback - Justin Timberlake,
Crazy - Gnarls Barkley, Ain't no other man - Christina
Aguilera, Love Generation - Bob Sinclair,
What A Feeling - Peter Luts, Call On me - Janet
Jackson, Raindrops - Stunt, Watchin' - Freemasons featuring
Amanda Wilson
Next week in DanceTalk we will feature some of the
favorite songs of the professional hustle dancers. Stay tuned for the
first installment (two parts) as some of the greatest dancers from all
over the country share with our readers the songs that they love to
dance to.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by the US
Nationals. Taking place October 6 - 8, 2006 at the
Westfield's Marriott in Northern Virginia. Hosted by Dale &
Anita Strawser and Sam & Denise Miller. See all the details
below and visit the website at http://www.usndc.com for up-coming
pre-Event Jack & Jill events (Hustle, Argentine Tango, WCS, 2
Step and more).
Make it a great week,
Ron
The future of the Hustle
Readers Feedback
Here are some profound letters from both amateur & professional
dancers. They are from different states, sharing their concerns and
views on the hustle of today and where it is going? These
letters have some solid ideas, recommendations and individual
perceptions. I typically shorten long letters (with the writers
permission) -- but these letters were not abbreviated because they
strike a cord.
Agree or disagree, the words & thoughts are their true feelings
and perceptions. Clearly, they feel that strong that they took the time
to write them. The big question is, if folks don't vocalize their
thoughts, and the hustle dance community doesn't change or
respond.......how can we expect the interest level to grow. If we don't
react, the dance may cease to exist in the not so distant future?
Thank you to the writers for taking the time to express your feelings.
I apologize that I cannot post all of the letters we receive due to
space limitations.
RB
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hi Ron,
I really believe that if
we don't start dancing Hustle to more modern mix of music, this dance
is going to die with us. Sure, us 50 something guys get all excited
when we hear songs from "the good old days".
However the next generation of young dancers don't
listen to it and the radio stations and dance clubs don't
play 70's oldies.
Raye
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Dear Ron,
There has been ever increasing talk
lately of the "politics" that goes on at the hustle competitions. Its
always been a part of any type competition to some
degree that involves skill rather than speed or distance, but lately it
seems to be getting worse than ever at the hustle events. The
favoritism and game playing that go on behind the scenes seem to get
more blatant each year. Ever since Maria Torres started Hustle USA in
the mid 90's, there has also been much debate on why this dance hasn't
had the resurgence that it deserves. Besides the cheesy John Travolta
and line dance stigma that has been attached to it, I feel that the
other thing that holds hustle back is the politics. The politics are
simply killing the whole scene, namely the competitions. The presence
of political game playing is becoming more and more apparent to even
the most naive beginner or casual social dancer. People see that there
are games being played and just because they aren't saying things
directly to certain people, doesn't mean that no one notices. I have
attended events where there are different rooms for dancing. In one
room there is 5,000 salsa attendees, live band and wide age range of
social dancers and competitors. This makes the discrepancy of where
hustle could have gone, or could go, glaring. The sad part is
that certain people seem to lack the foresight to see what the end
result will eventually be. A select few who are terrified of losing
control over a continually diminishing little corner of the dance world
are strangling the life out of hustle. The dance is gasping for air and
they are too myopic to see that they are the ones with their hands on
the rope. Pretty soon there will only be crumbs left from this ever
shrinking pie that could have grown to be quite large had certain
people decided to look beyond their own nose and ego. In an ideal
world, events would grow year after year and event organizers would be
making a killing, with more and more competitors in every level and in
every division, promoters and studios would be having more socials and
making more money, more students would be taking more lessons making
*ALL* the pros more money, more routines would be put on the floor,
more pros would be out there competing inspiring the amateurs, more
pros would come up through the ranks and exist period, and the
professional divisions would be a spectator event that would then
attract more people to the events and learn the dance, and on and on
and on. This is after all a business and when the day comes that no
money is coming in to the professionals, promoters, etc. and no one's
doing the dance anymore because no new blood has come in, hustle will
take its last gasp. One of the biggest things missing is a rich
professional field with a lot of
good couples. In the past ten years, there has only been about 4 really
phenomenal and inspiring couples in my opinion. Lori Ann Greenhouse and
Kelvin Roche
blow everyone out of the water these days. The Gallaghers were amazing.
Lori Ann (again) and Roberto Pagan 10 years ago when Hustle USA first
started were
unbelievable. And the Appels from Texas were excellent. Having a field
of 10 or 20 couples at this level would attract people from outside the
hustle world just to come and watch the pro competitions on Saturday
night. There's no high point to any of these weekends that is a draw
that brings in new dancers. The current "system" doesn't welcome new
blood coming in or for the pie to expand.
As everyone who's been around for more than a year
or two has seen a lot of dancers have dropped out
of the competitive hustle circuit after a few years or even just months
and they go from spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on
their dancing per year to
spending $10-15 a week to go to a local social or nothing at all. These
people stop spending money on lessons, stop going to events and the
dance stops moving forward. Attendance drops across the board and the
pie shrinks. Competitors walk away from competitions feeling that they
got the shaft one too many times or watch it happen to other more
advanced dancers. They ask themselves on the drive or the plane ride
home why they'd want to be part of a sport where it involves getting
out on the floor and fighting through nerves, insecurity and fear, in
front of a ballroom full of people and subjecting themselves to being
judged by five individuals under the premise that these people with the
clipboards are impartial and qualified. Add on top of that expensive
private lessons and practice time and it becomes a hard pill to swallow
when they realize that those who decide on how they place are allowed
to act in blatantly self serving ways with no system of checks and
balances and
no recourse. As competitors come up through the ranks, they quickly
figure out that you have to take lessons with certain people (whether
they are by *real* standards good dancers or not) and have routines
choreographed by certain people (whether they want to or not). These
same people regularly decide who gets what placement and it starts to
resemble Enron and we all know what happened there. An ambitious
competitor is faced with few options besides playing the game of who
will sell out on themselves first and the most.
For things to change, either certain people would
need to conduct themselves completely differently and see how they are
cutting off their own nose to spite their face and that it won't serve
them in the long run. Or promoters would have to take a stand, weather
the storm and bring in judges from the ballroom, salsa, country or
swing world that have no affiliation with anyone on the competitive
floor or their teachers or choreographers. Or more individuals would
need to speak up more and complain much more loudly (and not just in
private to friends) when they witness others getting the shaft, whether
it be anonymously or not.
Phil
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Greetings Ron, I would like to share with you and your readers a
different perspective on touch dancing (in this case hustle dancing). I
was raised and grew up in south Philadelphia Pa. For those not from the
area it is a very family oriented neighborhood made up of
many nationalities with a vast representation of Italians. My father
had a delicatessen and today my sister runs it. I have been in the
education field and will be eligible for retirement in 2 years. Due to
my busy school schedule, I only get out to dance every few weeks or so.
Once I go into a semi retirement mode I plan to attend Michael's and
other dances in the Valley Forge area.
The problem I see is that the hustle dance will not grow based on a 50
something guy like me. Ron, I respect you, Andre, Brian and Silvanna,
Donna and many of the other great dancers. I would not attempt to teach
any of these fine dancers pointers in dancing but I see many areas that
do not welcome in new dancers. please permit me to share some points.
Point one, my fathers delicatessen grew and continues to grow based on
familles, parents bringing their children to the shop. Today, those
kids come with their kids. I don't see the next generation of dancers
learning the hustle
Point two, Learning comes easiest and enjoyable in a group format,
college campus is where folks learn courses like computers programing,
foreign languages, musical instruments. Hustle teachers need to work
with community colleges, high school, YMCA, church groups, public
libraries and health clubs.
Point three, teach new interested people how to dance right on the
floor. To get young people interested you have to pull them out onto
the dance floor. Welcome them in, Teenagers and young adults don't have
the income to spend on expensive dance lessons. Isn't there a less
expensive way to teach new dancers to dance and get them interested ??
I don't see a growing future for the hustle unless the teachers take
the first steps.
George from K of P
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hi Ron,
I may get lots of slack and/or attitude for this.
I am an "L.A." or "California" hustle dancer. As far as I'm concerned,
there should be no attitude from the NY people towards ANY
hustle dancer, whether it be Calif., Texas, beginner,
advance..whatever! I personally have no beefs with any of them,
although it did take a couple hustle events before the Nay's started
dancing with me when they figured out I could dance, & that I
was repeatedly asking & getting turned
down..... It's hard enough to keep hustle going in
California, & getting a bit of attitude from the Orange County
crowd who take lessons from the "NY trained" doesn't help
either. I know that hustle here is not as "serious" as it is
there, but isn't the whole point to have fun, dance for pleasure, learn
& take what you can from others better than you, &
help those who are not as good? Sure there are
beginners, or people willing to learn a different style, but why do
they have to get attitude from someone who has attitude? What I have
seen & heard with my own eyes was at a hustle event. I sat
behind the event promoters that were judges for the finals. I could not
believe my ears while the couple was on the floor dancing their asses
off, these 2 were giggling, making snide comments about how their kick
was, or arms were out of place, barely looking at them because they
were too busy talking to each other. Of course, THEIR
friends won, who had won the previous year. That was the last
event of theirs I've supported, and will NEVER support any of them they
promote. The Florida crowd is ALWAYS pleasant, (but
there was 1 promoter that was extremely rude to
me in Florida, but acted like he was my best
friend the last time I saw im..HUH?..ok "Cybil" with
your 32 personalities! ha) I saw a web site that was something
about NY style vs LA style...IT DOESN'T MEAN CALIFORNIA IS DOING IT
WRONG!!!...It just means a different style!!! Why doesn't anyone get
that? It cracks me up to hear that crap about "New Hustle"
just because the music is a bit faster! We've been dancing to that "New
Hustle" for 20 years!! Why is it new all of a sudden, just because a
NY"r says so?? Now, can someone give me any good, solid
reasons for the California people to take time off
their jobs, spend their hard earned money for plane, hotel,
classes, only to get ignored & talked about, & made fun
of? There are so many willing "non-ny'rs" eager to learn. I'm 100%
positive there will be people that agree with what I just
vented..& I can't believe it's taken me this long to do it. We
should ALL band together & some people should LOSE their
attitudes, I'm sure there was a time when they sucked at dancing
& didn't get the time of day. Hey Madeline & Bobby O!!
You guys are a gas! Diane, we miss you, All the Florida
people at the Palladium & Feathers, thanks for dancing with us,
hope we can all keep dancing together--ALL of us! Ron, thanks for
letting me vent!
Liz
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hi Ron,
I had the pleasure of meeting and talking with you this summer. What I
find interesting from your newsletter is that many of the couples that
are winning first place contests are in their 40's and 50's. This is
quite amazing but like you and I had discussed in professional sports
your career is over in your early 30's, gymnasts and skaters peek when
in your early 20's. This is quite impressive for the dancers but the
question is???? where are the young dance couples? Is it that these
couples in their middle ages are just that good or have the young
dancers lost interest? Back to the old question which came first the
chicken or the egg???
Regards,
Dan
'So You Think You Can Dance' - Update
(courtesy of Ballroom-Arkansas.com )
Benji Schwimmer, the swing/Latin dancer who won this season's "So You
Think You Can Dance," has been cast to portray Fred Astaire in
an upcoming bio movie (Schwimmer's "My Space" profile sports a Fred
Astaire background). He's also been approached by two
sitcoms, three Broadway shows, and "a movie star who wants to produce
me in a show of his." And, he and his cousin,
Heidi Groskreutz, are set to make a series of
instructional dance videos. Schwimmer may not
take one of his prizes -- a contract as a back-up dancer in
Celine Dion's "New Day" show in Las Vegas -- saying
"Originally I thought, 'There's no way I'm going to do this. They don't
do swing dancing. I wanted to give the contract to Travis.'" Mia Michaels, a
SYTYCD show choreographer and also Dion's show choreographer, told him
he "could pull it off" and that Dion's show "wants to use your style"
of dance in the Las Vegas show, but (as of this date) he hasn't decided
on the Dion contract offer. As far as his $100,000 prize goes, he has
donated "a lot" of it to his nonprofit charity "Dancers
Everywhere Making a Needed Difference" (DEMAND), which helps
underprivileged orphans in Mexico. (Schwimmer, a Mormon, served a
mission in Mexico for 2 years.) He'll help re-build his
southern California family's dance studio, which was partially
destroyed in a recent fire, adding, "the rest of the money I
will give to my church or save for a rainy day." The "So You Think You
Can Dance" tour featuring the show's top 10 dancers -- including winner
Benji Schwimmer and his cousin Heidi Groskreutz -- begins on September
12. The tour, which begins in Seattle, criss-crosses the
country from Oregon to New York and Florida to Arizona. For
Arkansans, the nearest show would be St. Louis on September 21
or Chicago (September 22). Tickets are around $55 each.
DanceTalk * 9-12-06
Happy Birthday wishes to
Kat Clark, Celie McVaugh, Valerie Hunt and
Gladys Torres.
Lets never forget the attack on our country. Just five short
years ago our world was turned upside down. Please keep all the
courageous people, that lost their lives, in your thoughts and prayers.
May God bless them and keep them close.
Dancer Willi Ninja who inspired Madonna's video
'Vogue' died of AIDS complications last month. Best known for 'Paris Is
Burning'.
Hold the date, the Philly Dance Festival returns to
the Philadelphia Airport Marriott Hotel - International Airport in
Philadelphia April 13,14,15, 2007
Bon Voyage to Frank Mazzarella and DJ Kenny
Arditi. They are leaving for Italy to attend an IDO dance
event and an excursion to Rome, Milan and Merano.
Here are some pictures from the 2006 NY Hustle Congress,
courtesy of Scott Michielli, http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8FYuW7Rw5YmQ
Thursdays in Boca Raton are heating up, starting on September 21 for
the grand opening of the Pavilion.
Formerly the Tavern on the Greenery, with an all new dance floor,
lighting and sound system. See all the details below.
Theater arts at its best, this lady is dancing on
pointe...
http://youtube.com/watch?v=-_CUhQP2lJ4&search=point%20shoe
Tuesday, September 12th, Dancing With The Stars
returns with new stars and professional teachers. Nick
Kosovich & Vivicia A. Fox, Louis Van Amstel & Monique
Coleman, Tony Dovolani & Sara Evans, Jesse DeSoto &
Shanna Moakler, Maxim Chmerkovsky & Willa Ford, Cheryl Burke
& Emmitt Smith, Ashly Delgrosso & Harry
Hamlin, Edyta Silwinska & Joey Lawrence, Karina
Smirnoff & Mario Lopez, Kym Johnson & Jerry Springer,
lena Grinenko & Tucker Carlson,
Robin Amante & Barry Bernstein's People's Choice Dance
Awards
Favorite Male Hustle Dancer Derrick Allen
Favorite Female Hustle Dancer Donna DeSimone
Favorite Male Swing Dancer Rick Aubain
Favorite Female Swing Dancer Jeannie Devos
Favorite Male Latin Dancer Alex Skutzka
Favorite Female Latin Dancer Rita Dowd
Favorite Male Freestyle Dancer Barry Bernstein
Favorite Female Freestyle Dancer Jeannie Devos
Most Improved Dancer Its a Tie!!!! Rosetta Varoula & Jo Jo Jack
Least likely to turn down a dance Donna
DeSimone
Person most helpful to help our group survive Robin Amante
Up and comer, under the age of 21 Ashley Amante
Next week, DanceTalk shares some readers views and
perspectives on the future of the Hustle. Stay tuned for some hard -
core opinions in next weeks edition.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk®. is sponsored by Dance
Shoe Boutique. The premier dance shoe store for him and her.
See all the details below.
Make it a great week,
Ron
Shoes can make the difference
Balance and control are the name of the game when it comes to dancing.
The right set of dance shoes can make the difference. Dance Shoe
Boutique just celebrated its one year Anniversary. They still
have the same great products, the same wonderful staff, low everyday
prices - only the name has changed. Summer is over but the savings
continue. Don't miss out on their end of Summer Dance Shoe Sale.
Extended till September 20th, 2006. Stop by the store or shop them on
line but do it now before the sale ends. Dance Shoe Boutique are the
wholesale distributor of the Rummos dance shoes for
Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington and Delaware. Rummos
dance shoes are imported and manufactured in Portugal, made of the
finest Italian leather and suede. Latin, Ballroom, hustle &
Jazz shoes for men, women & children. These shoes are made with
extra cushion for the comfort and flexibility of the dancers feet.
Enjoy the savings now, the sale ends September 20th. Come in
early for the best selections - Jewelry 50-75% OFF, Dancewear 50-75%
off, bags & accessories are all on SALE. Bring
a copy of DanceTalk® or e-mail for $5.00 discount
For your convenience, they are available as VENDORS at socials,
competitions, studio's, showcases and fundraising events. They have
been at: Discoamerica, Cornell University, Shall We Dance
- Atlantic City, Dance Sport - Ocean City,
Zanzibar - Washington, Salsa Congress - Philadelphia, Dance
Haddonfield, Peppermint Club, Top Hat Dance Studio, Dance Partners,
Stardust Ballroom. Step by Step Dance Studio, Salseros
International Dance Company, Bethesda - Maryland.
Call them at (215)639-5670 Toll Free 866-63 SHOES
The web Site http://www.danceshoeboutique.com
or e mail danceshoeboutique@yahoo.com
Store hours of operation: Sunday through Wednesday - by
appointment
Thursday 3:00 - 6:00 , Friday 3:00 - 7:00 , Saturday 11:00 - 4:00
Visit them at 2133 Bristol Pike RT. 13 Bensalem, PA 19020, not far from
Michael's Cafe and La Luna Dance Studio.
Bring a copy of newsletter or e-mail for $5.00
discount
"Spot Light"
Ron Bermudez &Salsa Angels®
He was a born leader. He had dancing in his veins and music
in his heart. He was driven to circulate every type of dance and music
internally. Ron Bermudez is a TV producer who was trained in dance by
many of the early greats: Nelly Cotto, Floyd Chisholm, Eddie Vega,
Lourdes Jones, George Vascones and Denise Florencio - founders of the
Latin Symbolics. Ron took his lessons serious and passed on this
wonderful talent to others. In 1978 he founded the Salsa
Angels®.
At the tender age of 7 years old, Ron fell in love with dance. While
living in central America he would watch the kids listening to Cuban
radio dancing to Cuban guaracha and mambo. Fascinated by the girls
dancing to the Cuban salsa tumbao pattern or conga drum pattern. "That
drum beat just made me move and start dancing" recalls Ron. His uncle
Carlos taught him his first Cuban dance steps. Years later, as an
adult, Ron set out to find Francisco Aguabella, the Cuban master
drummer that produced the hit album for Peggy Lee. "Francisco
taught me that on the one of the clave you step out back or forth"
Ron's passion for music and dancing was very analytical, it wasn't just
about performing but understanding the roots and body movement. In 1977
while residing in San Francisco, he went to see the new motion picture
'Saturday Night Fever'. Ron remembers "I could tell that there was
something wrong with the partner dancing." He later read an
article that exposed how the movie had ripped off the Latin kids from
Manhattan and the Bronx, who had actually invented the NY Latin hustle.
Ron set out to research the dance and set the record straight. He flew
to NY to investigate the authenticity of the NY Latin hustle. He
quickly uncovered, as he suspected, that the hustle was a dance
invented by the Latin kids to dance salsa to disco music. In efforts to
totally comprehend this new dance he wanted to learn only from the
best. "I needed to hire the NY champions to teach me the real
dance." That very same night he went to a hustle dance
contest. The winners were Floyd Chisholm and Nelly Cotto. Ron quickly
put his project into motion. He invited all the dancers from the
contest, including the Latin Symbolics, to take part in a video
performance. This project created a life long friendship and student
relationship with all these young champions. "I learned from the
champions Nelly & Floyd and the upcoming champions Eddie Vega
& Lourdes Jones, they became my role models." Nelly and Floyd
were real elegant and classy, Eddie became real fantastic and Lourdes
dancing was real cute, sexy and smooth recalls Ron. The video
project was shown and became a hit on the San Francisco cable access
channel in 1978. The true credit for creating the hustle dance was now
incontestable.
A natural for lifts and tricks, Ron's daughter Pearl became his
partner. In California they competed, winning a number of first places
competitions. In a short period of time, Ron & Pearl developed
a strong following. They were highly regarded and were invited by many
important civic organizations to perform at their functions. They were
honored at the same time for bringing the real NY Latin hustle to the
west coast. Ron began to bring many of the NY greats to San Francisco.
He continued to study under them and found a growing interest from the
west coast dancers to perform. There was a growing demand for shows and
performers. "I was even honored by Carol Montez in LA. to teach her the
authentic NY Latin hustle." People just fell in love with the hustle,
and every body wanted to learn it, this kept Ron very busy dancing,
teaching and doing routines for his cable TV show. The show caused a
buzz and the girls wanted to be part of our dance group. Along with his
two daughters and all the eager ladies, the enthusiasm gave birth to
the Salsa Angels®. They began doing shows and
performing on Ron's TV show. " When I first started to mix the NY Latin
hustle with Cuban salsa on the 1, in 1978, everybody thought I was
being stupid, but look at it now all the dancers in the world are doing
it."
Back in the day, he was the founding father of salsa on the radio
playing complete programs dedicated to Salsa music. Ron became the
number one DJ during the busy commute hours of 3PM to 6PM. This success
opened the door to cable TV. Via his radio broadcast, Ron helped to
discover and launch many music bands.
He has a band of musicians called the Ron Bermudez salsa all stars. "I
helped the Escovedo brothers band, Sheila E's father and uncles band in
the early sixties they were my live house band on my radio programs. I
gave Sheila E her first opportunity to perform with the salsa all stars
in 1973, when she was about 14 or 15 years old."
Ron then took his band to the Hollywood Paladium in 1978 for a sold out
performance and brought Eddie & Lourdes to Hollywood for the
first time. Ron helped pave new paths for many artists and gave them
their just-do exposure.
Today, Ron continues to dance, perform, teach and inspire others. You
can see this true artist on his televised programs in San Francisco,
California. Visit his website at: http://www.salsalarazawithronbermudez.com
Letters To The Editor
(please send
letters to Rowenlb22@aol.com, due to space limitations we cannot post
them all, TY)
Ron,
I completely agree with Lisa in the last newsletter! Too many
DJs play nothing but the same old, slow worn out 30 year-old
music. Some of that is fine but many of us are tired of it as
a steady diet. I will often simply not dance because the
music makes me want to lay down and take a nap. I think
Hustle could become enormously popular again if it was danced to some
hot current music. There are so many styles that work: Merengue Hip Hop
(Proyecto Uno, Sandy y Papo, ...), House (Kaskade, Paul Van Dyk,
Stylotronic, ...), Euro (Daze, Tiggy, Whigfield, ...),
and derivatives of these styles. One DJ that "gets it" is
Bobby Morales. He has really been playing some great stuff in the past
few years. Thanks,
"Illinois" Paul Jones
Urbana, IL
>>>>>>>>>>>
Hi Ron,
In addition to a previous letter to you regarding the music at the
dance socials, I would like to add an example. I attended the
NY Hustle Congress on Friday night and the music was amazing.
Although it started out quite slow paced, it picked up quickly and was
great. It wasn't the same slow tempo that is constantly heard at many
of the socials. It was high energy with lots of pulsating
beats that you can
improvise to. Instead of the same 'and ONE...two...three'
timing that can put high energy, upbeat hustle dancers to sleep, this
was exciting and you can experiment and play with. I think a
lot of hustle dancers lost the feeling of playing around with their
partners and the music. Of course, if the music is slow and
dull, it's not conducive for experimentation. I think true
dancers need to be challenged when they dance. So what if you
both mess up?? It's makes you both sharper and more in tune
with each other. That's where the excitement still lives inside us when
we're on the dancefloor. Please feel free to share this with your
readers who dance and DJ and maybe we can get even MORE people involved
in kicking it up a notch.
Thanks,
Lisa
>>>>>>>>>>>
Hi Ron!!
I'd like to thank you and everyone at Michael's for making my birthday
so special. Even though she couldn't be there...special thanks to
Denise for my favorite cake, Carole (Wife #2) for arranging all the
details, and D.J. Mark for the great music........the dance was
awesome!! I'ts a pleasure spending every Tuesday with you and everyone
at Michael's. Thanks again!
Steve Salerno
>>>>>>>>>>>
Gladys Torres, has finally left MD Anderson hospital, where she had
been fighting
pneumonia. She is now at Nexus Specialty hospital where she will spend
a little time working on her strength through Physical Therapy. She
will also do Speech Therapy. Keep in mind that September 6 she may be
transported to MD Anderson for a follow-up visit with her
Oncologist. Gladys does have her cell phone but may not always pick it
up.( Her number is 713-875-6991.) Feel free to call me and I
can always relay her a message.
P.S. She will begin another round of chemo once all of this is behind
her.
Thanks for your support, love and prayers..
Rick Torres
network 297-3703
Office tel 281-866-3703
Cell 281-733-3449
>>>>>>>>>>>
Just a note about the NY Hustle Congress this past weekend.
Kudos to Derek and Donna's fabulous performance. It had
people standing and cheering uncontrollably. I also had the
pleasure of taking their workshop which people could not get enough
of! After the class everyone was still doing the lesson it
was so much fun. Just have to say keep doing it Derrick and
Donna. It was great to have Derrick back in the teaching
mode, his style is definitely something unique and he should continue
teaching......
Silvia
>>>>>>>>>>>
Hi Ron,
I just wanted to say what a great time I had at the Hustle Congress
this past weekend. I had fun, registration went smoothly and the music
was great. More importantly I got to see a true legend of the
Hustle World perform a truly magical routine. The performance
of Derrick Allen and Donna DeSimone was something to see and I believe
historical in its impact on our dance. This is not to slight
or take away anything from the other competitors, but it does get
tiring going to dance event and seeing nothing but
acrobatics. If I wanted to see that I would go see Circ de
Sole or something. I remember seeing Derrick dance
back in the day and being floored by his dancing.....(with an emphasis
on the word DANCE). His charisma and style are really something to see
and it was incredible that after some 20-25 years later he still has
it. His partner Donna was beautiful and you truly could not
help but get swept up in the beauty their dance together.
What is really great for us is that their dance was the
Hustle!!!.....simply beautiful Hustle. Not a Rumba, Tango,
WCS or some other dance done to a hustle song. They didn't rely on any
tricks or acrobatics to make their routine work although they had a
couple of nicely done clean lifts. It was
a total package of timing, movement, styling, connection, beautiful
look and sophisticated floor work. The hustle
community should truly embrace their performance as it really
showcases how great a dance we have.
Thanks to Lori Brizzi and all of the participants for a truly
great Congress. I can't wait until next year
- and please, lets all hope that Derrick and Donna
do not make this their "Last Dance".
Steve
DanceTalk * 9-5-06
Happy Birthday wishes to
Rita Dowd, Nan Bohrar, Amy Lefkowitz, Joe
Kernan, Patty Kozel and Sandra
Gonzalez.
Our dear friend, Robin Amante's mother passed away
this past weekend. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Robin and her
family. Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers.
The 2006 Dance Music Summit takes place this
September 17th to 20th at the Palms Casino/Hotel in Las Vegas Nevada
Congratulations to photographer
extrordianire Sam Habet,
Per a panel of judges, he won the professional Dance Photo contest at
Capital Dance Sport Championship last weekend held in Washington, DC
(August 24-26). One of the major ballroom events in the country for
several years. The winning picture is at his website (http://www.SamsSnapShots.com).
The picture is located under Capital Dance Sport 2006 (First Folder).
Mark your calendars for the Ohio State Ball Dance
Championships. It takes place November 14th - 19th,
2006 celebrating their 29th anniversary with host Sam Sodano
- televised on PBS http://www.ohiostarball.com/
December 21st is the release date for the new motion picture Dream
Girls. Writer / director Bill Condon (he did Chicago) has a
dream cast- Jamie Foxx, Eddie Murphy, Beyonce'.....it is already
getting rave reviews seen at Cannes film fest.
Victor Willis, has been in custody since his March
arrest for drug possession. Willis co wrote 'Macho Man', 'In
the Navy' and 'YMCA' while in the Village People. He left the band in
1980. He was the original Police man in the band. Willis will be
sentenced this coming Friday.
New members were just inducted into the Hustle Hall Of Fame,
congratulations to them all. you can visit the site for new names and
pictures at: http://www.HustleHallofFame.com/
Ballroom dancing is red hott and September 15 to 24 is National
Ballroom Dance Week. In honor, many studio are offering free
introductory lessons including Dance Haddonfield on Sept 17th from 6-7
PM, at Grace Church in Haddonfield. A free ECS lesson prior to their
regular Sunday night dance.
Stay tuned for next weeks Spotlight feature on a music Icon that broke
ground on radio then directed his artistic talent to the Latin hustle
and his own dance troop, the Salsa Angels®.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by http://www.danceclassicshowcase.com
for the greatest classic dance music. Visit the site for compilations
mixed by the very best DJs and mixologists. You can listen to the songs
at the website. Its awesome.
Make it a great week,
Ron
Time Capsule 1976
Thirty years ago, our nation rejoiced and celebrated its Bicentennial,
200 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
President Gerald Ford inherited a nation that was weary of politics and
suffering from high levels of unemployment and inflated prices.
Prosperity was slowly returning to the states. The theaters were packed
as many new pioneers in motion pictures made their
debut.
The top box office motion pictures that year included
'Carrie' - Sissy Spacek scared us at her prom, 'All the Presidents men'
- told us that politicians were not to be trusted, 'Taxi
Driver' - a young Robert DeNero asked us "Are you talking to
me" and 'Network' recommend us not to take anymore BS at your
job. 'Rocky' walked away with the Best Picture Academy Award and Vince
Papale became a Philadelphia Eagle......the rest is history.
The disco movement was still in its infancy but
was growing and spreading across the nation. In 1976 Billboard
magazine, posted the Top Audience Response. 30 years ago, these were
the top dance songs "Disco Action" according to Billboard.
1) Thats Where the happy People Go - The Trammps
2) Ten Percent - Double Exposure
3) Nice & Slow - Jesse Green
4) One For The Money - the Whispers
5) Always There - Side Effect
6) heaven Must Be missing An Angel - Tavares
7) Love Power - Roberta Kelly
8) I Get lifted - Sweet Music
9) Its Better Then Walking Out - Shaw
10) You Should Be Dancing - The Bee Gees
NY Hustle Congress - results
Congratulations to all the winners and participants in this past weeks
2nd annual New York Hustle Congress. Lori Brizzi hosted the Labor Day
weekend event in the birth place of the hustle - New York City. Here
are some of the unofficial results.
Visit the website in the near future for all the official results.
Intermediate Just Hustle
1st Mona Walker and partner,
2nd Steve Shaughnessy and Kathryn Johansen,
3rd Elizabeth Craner and Scott Michielli
Advanced Just Hustle
1st Wendy and Wajih Dalal
2nd Jerise Massone and Jaime Serna
3d George Garcia and Mihoko
Professional Hustle division
1st David Padilla and Simone Assboeck
2nd Keith and Celeste Gussoni
3rd Rob Finocchio and Laura Cozik
Professional Theater Arts
1 Derrick Allen & Donna Disommone
2 Kelvin Roche & Loriann Greenhouse
3 Keith & Celeste Gussoni
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