______MINNESOTA DANCER January 2015
Andy and Janie Nordberg recently competed in the Senior II Standard World Championships, held in Vancouver, Canada.
Inside ~ Dance Etiquette, world championships, dance practice tips, AND MORE
1 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org Official publication of USA Dance Minnesota Chapter #2011
______
2 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
3 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______Join us for USA Dance Minnesota’s DANCER’S NIGHT OUT UPCOMING DANCES Want to dance? Dancer's Night Out lists social dance events in Minnesota. Want to see your JOIN dance listed here? Email the details to [email protected]. USA DANCE MINNESOTA AT OUR DANCE AND GET IN FREE! Thu 1/1 Social Dance Studio Late Night Fri 1/9 DanceLife Ballroom Variety Dance, 8 www.usadance-minnesota.org Swing 10pm-2am, 3742 23rd Ave S, Mpls, –9:30, 6015 Lyndale S, Mpls, 612-345- www.socialdancestudio.com 4219, www.dancelifeballroom.com Fri 1/2 DanceLife Ballroom Variety Dance, 8 Mill City Ballroom Social Dancing, 8-10, –9:30, 6015 Lyndale S, Mpls, 612-345- 2382 Hampden Ave, St Paul, MN, 4219, www.dancelifeballroom.com www.millcityballroom.com Mill City Ballroom Social Dancing, 8-10, Sat 1/10 Café Bailar Dance Party, 7:30-11:30, JANUARY 2382 Hampden Ave, St Paul, MN, Balance Pointe Studio, 5808 W 36th St, St. Saturday, January 17 www.millcityballroom.com Louis Pk, www.cafebailar.com
7–8 pm lesson: Social Dance Studio Club Salsero, 7-11, Tango Society 2nd Saturday Milonga & Instructor: Gene Bersten 3721-23rd Ave S, Mpls, Annual Meeting & Election; 8:30 lesson, 8–11 pm Variety dance music www.socialdancestudio.com 9:30-1 dance, Costa Rica Ballroom, 816 Main St, Hopkins, 612-224-2905, www.mntango.org $7 USA Dance members Sat 1/3 DanceLife Ballroom 1st Saturday Variety Dance, 7–9:30, 6015 Lyndale S, $5 Students under 25 with ID Sun 1/11 USA Dance Minnesota Project Mpls, 612-345-4219, $10 Non-members Dance Rumba Lesson with Troy Lerum; www.dancelifeballroom.com 2:00 PM; $5 or Free to USA Dance Min- Dance With Us America Ballroom First Saturday Swing Dance, Social Dance nesota #2011 Members! Dancers Stu- 10 Southdale Center, Edina, MN Studio, 7:30–12:30, 3742 23rd Ave S, dio, 415 Pascal St N, St Paul, 651-641- Mpls, www.socialdancestudio.com 0777, www.usadance-minnesota.org
Sun 1/4 USA Dance Minnesota Project Pizza Practice Party; Pizza, Music, Danc- Dance Rumba Lesson with Troy Lerum; ing; American Classic Ballroom, 7-9, $10/ 2:00 PM; $5 or Free to USA Dance Min- $8 for USA Dance Members and ACB nesota #2011 Members! Dancers Stu- private students, 550 Market St, Chanhas- FEBRUARY dio, 415 Pascal St N, St Paul, 651-641- sen, www.acballroom.com 0777, www.usadance-minnesota.org Saturday, February 21 Cinema Ballroom Sunday Night Dancing To Be Announced TC Rebels Swing Dance, Social Dance with Jerry O'Hagan and His Orchestra, Studio, 7–10:30, 3742-23rd Ave S, Mpls, 6:15PM–10, 1560 St Clair Ave, St Paul, www.socialdancestudio.com 651-699-5910, www.cinemaballroom.com First Sunday Dance at Tapestry, 6–9:30, Mon 1/12 Social Dance Studio West Coast $7–$10, Bachata with Caroline Olson, Swing Social, 9:30–11, 3742 23rd Ave S, 3748 Minnehaha Ave S, Mpls, Mpls, www.socialdancestudio.com www.tapestryfolkdance.org Wed 1/14 Cinema Ballroom Practice Party, MARCH Mon 1/5 Social Dance Studio West Coast 8–9, 1560 St Clair Ave, St Paul, 651-699- Saturday, March 21 Swing Social, 9:30–11, 3742 23rd Ave S, 5910, www.cinemaballroom.com Mpls, www.socialdancestudio.com To Be Announced Dancers Studio WCS Party 8–9, 415 Pas- Dancers Studio WCS Party 8–9, 415 Pas- cal St N, St Paul, 651-641-0777, cal St N, St Paul, 651-641-0777, www.dancersstudio.com www.dancersstudio.com Thu 1/15 Dancers Studio Dance Party 7:30– Weds 1/7 Cinema Ballroom Practice Party, 8 9, 415 Pascal St N, St Paul, 651-641-0777, –9, 1560 St Clair Ave, St Paul, 651-699- www.dancersstudio.com 5910, www.cinemaballroom.com Social Dance Studio Late Night Swing Thu 1/8 Dancers Studio Dance Party 7:30– 10pm-2am, 3742 23rd Ave S, Mpls, 9, 415 Pascal St N, St Paul, 651-641-0777, www.socialdancestudio.com www.dancersstudio.com Fri 1/16 DanceLife Ballroom Variety Dance, Social Dance Studio Late Night Swing 8–9:30, 6015 Lyndale S, Mpls, 612-345- 10pm-2am, 3742 23rd Ave S, Mpls, 4219, www.dancelifeballroom.com www.socialdancestudio.com
4 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
Social Dance Studio Club Salsero, 7-11, 2382 Hampden Ave, St Paul, MN, Mill City Ballroom Social Dancing, 8-10, 3721-23rd Ave S, Mpls, www.millcityballroom.com 2382 Hampden Ave, St Paul, MN, www.socialdancestudio.com www.millcityballroom.com Sat 1/24 Café Bailar Dance Party, 7:30-11:30, Mill City Ballroom Social Dancing, 8-10, Costa Rica Ballroom , 816 Main St, Hop- Sat 1/31 DanceLife Ballroom Variety Dance, 8 2382 Hampden Ave, St Paul, MN, kins, cafebailar.com –9:30, 6015 Lyndale S, Mpls, 612-345-4219, www.millcityballroom.com www.dancelifeballroom.com Sun 1/25 USA Dance Minnesota Project Sat 1/17 Monthly USA Dance Minnesota, 7– Dance Rumba with Troy Lerum; 2:00 USA Dance: Who Are We? 11; $5–$7–$10; Lesson with Gene Ber- PM; $5 or Free to USA Dance Members! sten; Dance With Us America, 10 South- Dancers Studio, 415 Pascal St N, St We are a nonprofit organization that promotes ballroom dale Center, Edina, 612-564-5483, Paul, www.usadance-minnesota.org dancing. The Minnesota chapter, USA Dance Minnesota www.usadance-minnesota.org Chapter #2011, was formed in 1991. Membership in Cinema Ballroom Sunday Night with Jerry USA Dance is open to dancers of all levels. Linden Hills Dancing Club, 6:30–10:30, Din- O'Hagan, 6:15PM–10, 1560 St Clair Ave, ner & Dance -$60/couple, Dance only $20. St Paul, www.cinemaballroom.com USA Dance Minnesota Chapter #2011 sponsors monthly Lake Harriet United Meth. Church, 4901 dances and other special dance events. Members receive Chowen S, Mpls. 612-929-2121, Mon 1/26 Social Dance Studio West Coast discounts on admission to monthly dances, as well as www.lindenhillsdancingclub.org Swing Social, 9:30–11, 3742 23rd Ave S, other benefits including access to a network to meet other Mpls, www.socialdancestudio.com dancers. Sun 1/18 USA Dance Minnesota Project Dance Rumba Lesson with Troy Lerum; Wed 1/28 Dancers Studio WCS Party 8–9, The Minnesota Dancer is published monthly by the USA 2:00 PM; $5 or Free to USA Dance! Danc- 415 Pascal St N, St Paul, 651-641-0777, Dance Minnesota Chapter #2011, providing information ers Studio, 415 Pascal St N, St Paul, www.dancersstudio.com and news about ballroom dancing. www.usadance-minnesota.org Cinema Ballroom Practice Party, 8–9, 1560 Editors/Layout: Bonnie Burton, Leland Whitney TC Rebels Swing Dance, Social Dance Stu- St Clair Ave, St Paul, 651-699-5910, Advertising/Editing: Bonnie Burton 952-454-4620 dio, 7–10:30, 3742-23rd Ave S, Mpls, www.cinemaballroom.com Mailing: Committee member www.socialdancestudio.com Thu 1/29 Dancers Studio Dance Party 7:30– Contributions: Articles submitted may be edited for Pizza Practice Party; Pizza, Music, Dancing; 9, 415 Pascal St N, St Paul, 651-641-0777, length, clarity, and content. Photos should be high- American Classic Ballroom, 7-9, $10/$8 for www.dancersstudio.com resolution jpg, png, or pdf files. Email submissions to: USA Dance Members and ACB private stu- [email protected]. Social Dance Studio Late Night Swing dents, 550 Market St, Chanhassen, 10pm-2am, 3742 23rd Ave S, Mpls, Contributors: Paul Botes, Bonnie Burton, Elizabeth www.acballroom.com www.socialdancestudio.com Dickinson, Donna Edelstein, Eric Hudson, Janie Nord- Third Sunday Dance at Tapestry, 6–9:30, $7 berg, Deborah J. Nelson, Jeff Ringer, Gary Stroick, Fri 1/30 DanceLife Ballroom Variety Dance, Leland Whitney. –$10, Peabody with Kristina Lee, live music 8–9:30, 6015 Lyndale S, Mpls, 612-345- by Tim Patrick and Blue Eyes Band, 3748 4219, www.dancelifeballroom.com Subscriptions: $22/year. Make checks payable to USA Minnehaha Ave S, Mpls, Dance Minnesota #2011; send to Jane Phipps, 9018 www.tapestryfolkdance.org Zanzibar Lane, Maple Grove, MN 55311
Mon 1/19 Social Dance Studio West Coast Inside the Dancer Leland Whitney, President, 651-690-9367 Swing Social, 9:30–11, 3742 23rd Ave S, [email protected] Mpls, www.socialdancestudio.com Dancer’s Night Out …………………………. 4 Bonnie Burton, Vice-President, 952-454-4620 Wed 1/21 Cinema Ballroom Practice Party, 8– Meeting Minutes…………………………….. 6 [email protected] 9, 1560 St Clair Ave, St Paul, 651-699-5910,
President’s Corner…………………………... 6 www.cinemaballroom.com Jane Phipps, Treasurer, 612-859-5245 Editor’s Column …...... ……………………. 7 [email protected] Dancers Studio WCS Party 8–9, 415 Pascal
St N, St Paul, 651-641-0777, USA Dance Election Update ……………….. 11 Leslie Whitney, Secretary, 651-690-9367 www.dancersstudio.com Jeff Ringer’s Etiquette Tips ……….………… 12 [email protected]
Thu 1/22 Dancers Studio Dance Party 7:30–9, Competition Calendar ……………...... 13 415 Pascal St N, St Paul, 651-641-0777, Dancing Life: The Artist Within Us …...….. 15 www.dancersstudio.com Dr. Dance ……………………….…...……... 17 Social Dance Studio Late Night Swing 10pm- World Championships ……..…………….... 18 LYNNE'S DANCE NEWS 2am, 3742 23rd Ave S, Mpls, Frozen Showcase Review …………. .….… 20 A list of dance events for every day of the week— www.socialdancestudio.com updated daily Dancers Studio Showcase ………………… 22 Fri 1/23 DanceLife Ballroom Variety Dance, 8 Last Look: New Board of Directors …...….. 23 http://www.organizeronduty.com/ –9:30, 6015 Lyndale S, Mpls, 612-345-4219, testimonials.html Dance Partner Wanted …...………………… 24 www.dancelifeballroom.com Dance Contacts ...………………….……...... 26 Dance address book is also on this website Mill City Ballroom Social Dancing, 8-10,
5 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______PRESIDENT’S CORNER By Leland Whitney, President, USA Dance Minnesota Chapter #2011
raditionally at year’s end, we all look Thank you to the 2014 Tea Dance volunteers T back with gratitude to those volunteers and professionals: who have worked hard and contributed their time and talents to make our dance commu- Bonnie Burton, Sharon Kennedy, DeDe nity, and the USA Dance Minnesota organi- Ouren, Joyce Thompson; Tijen Petersen, zation, a better place. We are appreciative of Joel Torgeson, Lee Wintervold; Shinya the progress that was made this year and look McHenry; Sue & Greg Prasch forward to bright days ahead. Thank you to the Nomination & Election Thank you to the 2013–2014 USA Dance Committee: Minnesota Chapter #2011 Board members: Bonnie Burton, Karen Kettler Tepley, Bonnie Burton, Cathy Dessert, Marty Gary Stroick Faeh, Dan Fitzgerald, Tracy Frazee, Zhu- Leland and Leslie Whitney, after competing ojing Liu, Karen Maldonado, Daniel Thank you to the dance studios and ballrooms eight times nationwide last year, have quali- O’Connell, Jane Phipps, Gary Stroick, that hosted USA Dance Minnesota Chapter fied to compete in 10 events at the USA Pete Westlake, Leland Whitney, and #2011 events this year: Dance National Championships in Balti- Leslie Whitney. more in March. The next 3 months? Prac- American Classic Ballroom, Balance tice, practice, practice! Minnesota Dancer Magazine Editors: Pointe Studios, Cinema Ballroom, Costa Bonnie Burton, Leland Whitney Rica Ballroom, Dance With Us America, DanceLife Ballroom, Dancers Studio, Mill USA Dance Website Administrator: City Ballroom, Social Dance Studio, Tap- Ed Soltis estry Folkdance Center
USA Dance Monthly Dance Coordinator: Thank you to Shinya McHenry and DanceLife Zhuojing Liu Ballroom for providing meeting space to host all the USA Dance Minnesota Chapter #2011 Sunday Project Dance Coordinators: Board meetings in 2014. Karen Maldonado, Dan Fitzgerald Lastly, thank you to all our new members! Dance Demo Coordinators: USA Dance Minnesota Chapter #2011 has Yvonne and Dan Viehman grown from 162 members in November 2013 to 347 in November 2014. We are eager to Monthly Dance Front Desk Assistants: get to know you and work with you to have a Craig Hackinsick, Yeun Chou great 2015-2016 biennium.
USA Dance-MN USA DANCE MINNESOTA HOTLINE Chapter #2011 651-483-5467 Board Minutes
There was no December meeting. Several members were unable to attend www.usadance-minnesota.org the meeting and there was no quorum.
Next Meeting: Tues, Jan. 6, 2015 Call for information on dance events. DanceLife Ballroom Leave a message for membership infor- mation. 6015 Lyndale Ave. South Minneapolis, MN 55419
6 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______EDITOR’S COLUMN By Bonnie Burton
on’t you just love New Year’s resolu- ‘Participate in three dance competitions this D tions?! A chance at a new beginning, year’. ‘Practice 5 hours each week.’ ‘Have a a fresh start, another opportunity to wipe the coaching session with every professional in the slate clean and try again! Twin Cities.’ Of course, if I was resolving to win an Open Standard Championship this year, I keep each year’s resolutions and now and and I’m currently dancing at a silver level, then stumble across them in my computer well, that’s just asking for disappointment. archives. It’s boring to see how similar they are each year. I mean, it seems as if I’ve been Do you make resolutions and are any of them trying to lose the same 10 pounds forever. dance related? I’d love to hear them and share How novel it would be to make a resolution a few in future issues. Send them to me at like this: I resolve to appreciate my body [email protected]. You may remain every day, and treat it lovingly and healthily. anonymous or not. Let me know.
Bonnie Burton is Editor of Minnesota Every so often, I actually conquer a biggie. This month’s issue of Minnesota Dancer is Dancer Magazine. She and her husband New Year’s 1991, I resolved to quit smoking filled with information to get 2015 off to a Ed Soltis were thrilled to dance on the cigarettes. That year, either the planets were great start: Jeff Ringer brings us dance eti- largest ballroom dance floor at sea when aligned or I was simply ready, but I did it! I quette tips; Janie Nordberg writes about com- they cruised (and danced!) on the Queen quit. And, although it was one of the hardest peting at the World Championships; Dr. Dance things I’ve ever done, I’ve managed to stay advises us about how to practice dance con- Mary 2 over the holidays. quit. (That’s when I gained the extra weight structively; Eric Hudson shares the makings of that has monopolized subsequent resolution a great showcase. lists for years.) Unfortunately, long time columnist Jack Mun- Then there was the year I made a resolution day (‘Gentlemen Lead’) is taking some time to find “an appropriate dance practice partner off from writing for the Dancer. Many of you to help prepare me for my [pro/am] dance enjoyed the delightful pieces he shared with us competitions,” and that one actually worked each month, as did I. Thank you, Jack, for out, too. I met tall, dark Ed, who memorized your contributions. We wish you all the best. my bronze level pro-am choreography so he could dance endless hours with me, helping And did you hear the one about the candidates me practice for my competitions with Scott who ran for office and as soon as they were Anderson. elected, they resigned? Me neither. But you can read all about that in this issue, too. I love dance related resolutions, because they’re generally achievable as long as they’re Happy New Year! Happy dancing! formulated with a touch of realism. It’s easy to accomplish something if you love it:
7 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
HOLIDAYDREAM COSTUMES © Deborah J. Nelson/Satin Stitches Ltd.
atin Stitches is a sponsor of Minnesota couple performances and am in tune with S Dance Collaborative this year. Minne- how well couples coordinate and how group sota Dance Collaborative’s mission is to performances are perceived as a whole, a “deliver a distinctive, glamorous experience skill I’ve put to use in my ‘Dancing with the for Minnesota. Featuring high-kick preci- Stars’ costume critique blogs. sion jazz, classical jazz, lyrical, hip hop and tap, MDC strives to provide performance I see many similarities between dance team opportunities to talented artists with an in- performances and formation ballroom dance spired, community-centered focus.” routines, including similar costuming styles in both. Dancers in either style should be Minnesota Dance Collaborative is an off- uniform in their appearance to ensure that shoot of the organization that created ‘The the audience and judges can visualize the Starettes’, Minnesota’s version of the Radio performance as a whole. Similarly, with Deborah J. Nelson is the founder, presi- City Music Hall’s Rockettes. My company, couples competitive or performance ball- dent, and head designer of Satin Stitches Satin Stitches, created numerous holiday- room dancing, each couple should appear as Ltd. More costuming tips at: inspired costumes for The Starettes, and we one, and coordinate their costuming so that www.satinstitches.com are continuing the tradition with the newly they are not viewed as disjointed. named ‘Illuminaires’, MDC’s high-kick precision jazz performance team. Successful costuming enhances the dance that is performed, rather than detracting I attended MDC’s “HoliDaydream” in early from it. Costumes should fit each individual December and thoroughly enjoyed the entire dancer, and be appropriate for the dance that performance. Our Satin Stitches’ costumes is performed, as well as the age and ability were featured during “White Christmas” as of the dancer(s). well as the finale. For our Illuminaires’ costumes this year, we As I reflect on the gorgeous display of talent wanted to create a feeling of cold and ice. shared by the MDC, I am reminded that We chose a light blue, shiny stretch fabric as dancers of all backgrounds and abilities can the base of the costume and added nude skin learn so much from one another! Many ball- -toned, lined mesh to open up the neckline, room dancers have a background in high with a jagged edged neckline. We scattered school high-kick precision, studio jazz, lyri- permanently heat-fused, crystal Swarovski cal, hip hop, ballet and tap. Dance training rhinestones to the nude mesh for sparkle and of any variety is helpful to perfect ballroom Aurora Borealis Swarovski rhinestones on proficiency, as you may have seen in reality the light blue sleeves and bodice for added television shows such as ‘So You Think glitz. Icicles were added to create the skirt, You Can Dance’ or ‘Dancing with the in the form of silver metallic ‘Las Vegas’ Stars’. beads, along with strips of the light blue and silver fabric. The movement created by the I have seen thousands of team, solo, and beads was a major highlight of the costume!
8 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
(Deborah Nelson/Satin Stitches, continued)
From the comments that I heard, our design was a hit. The costume was successful be- cause it was flattering for all figure types and fit each dancer well. The focal points were the movement of the skirt and the neckline which draws your eye up to the dancer’s face. I hope that the Minnesota ballroom dance community can encourage and support this new organization, as I plan on continuing to do.
As I have mentioned in the past, I would love to have the ability to perform incredible song or dance performances, but instead, I was blessed with my costume design talent. So every time I see one of ‘my’ costumes on stage, it’s as if a little piece of me is on that stage too. I feel great satisfaction seeing our Satin Stitches custom-designed costumes ‘in Lisa and Tony at the 2014 Tea Dance performance’ and I especially enjoy creating costumes that flatter all sizes and shapes of Minnesota Dance Collaborative’s dancers, as everyone deserves a well-fitting HoliDaydream Performance Team performance costume!
9 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
10 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______USA Dance Board - Election Update By Gary Stroick, Election Committee Chair
he results of the Chapter election At the New Board Member Meeting accept a Board position. Tom Crable has T have been tabulated, reviewed and A meeting of the newly elected board informed us he will accept a board posi- confirmed by the Nomination & Election members was held on December 11, 2014. tion; however, Andrew Nordberg has cho- Committee, USA Dance Minnesota Chap- At that meeting, Rosemary O’Connell, sen not to accept the position due to his ter #2011. All members of the committee Taylor Wall, and Theresa Kimler submit- current work schedule. The two remaining (Bonnie Burton, Karen Kettler Tepley, and ted a letter to the other newly elected board open positions will be filled by appoint- Gary Stroick) met on November 19th, members that stated they were refusing to ment, in accordance with USA Dance By- 23rd, and 25th, 2014 to count the ballots. accept their elected positions. In addition, laws, by the USA Dance Minnesota Board candidates Michael Kasinkas, Cathy Des- of Directors early in 2015. The committee received 147 ballots. All sert, and Daniel O’Connell also submitted members of the Committee examined each a letter stating they refused to be seated, Election Commendations by National of the ballots; deemed seven to be invalid; (even though they were not elected), if The election process that was established counted the remaining 140 ballots board positions were offered to them. and followed by this year’s Nominations & (approximately 41% of the membership); Each of these individuals cited an unfair Elections Committee was reviewed with arrived at the same number of votes for and biased election process as the reason USA Dance National leadership. We’ve each candidate; and concurred with the for their decision. been commended on several of the process- results. At no time prior to submitting the letter of es and procedures used, and have been in- formed that these will be incorporated in an The following nine candidates were elected non-acceptance, did any of these candi- dates contact any member of the Election upcoming rewrite of the Election Procedures to the USA Dance Minnesota Chapter for USA Dance Chapters. #2011 Board of Directors for the term Committee to question or discuss any of 2015-2016: the election procedures, except for Daniel Thank you, new board members, and Elec- O’Connell, who inquired about nomination tion Committee members, for your willing- and petition procedures in September, ness to volunteer your time to support the Candidate Elected to Board 2014. operations of our Chapter. If there are ques- Dan Fitzgerald So What’s Next? tions regarding the election process, or if Ed Soltis you’d like to discuss election events further, In accordance with Election Procedures for please contact me directly. Gary Stroick, Joyce Thompson USA Dance Chapters, if elected members [email protected] or 952.201.3002. Karen Maldonado resign before taking office on January 1st, Leland Whitney the remaining candidates who ran for office (Editor’s note: additional documentation Leslie Whitney and are next in line, are conferred the open regarding the election may be viewed on the USA Dance Minnesota #2011 website at Rosemary O’Connell positions. www.usadance-minnesota.org .) Taylor Wall The remaining ballot candidates included Theresa Kimler Andrew Nordberg and Tom Crable and both individuals were asked if they would
Yes! I want to receive the USA Dance Minnesota Dancer Magazine! Please send my one-year subscription to:
Name Phone ______Address ______City/State/Zip ______
Please mail your check for $22 along with this form to: Jane Phipps, 9018 Zanzibar Lane, Maple Grove, MN 55311 [email protected]
11 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______JEFF’S RULES OF ETIQUETTE FOR SOCIAL DANCING By Jeff Ringer
hen we go to a social dance event, 2. Don’t embarrass your partners by W we aren’t just dancing. We’re inter- dancing above their level. Leaders acting with other people and that means we shouldn’t attempt to lead patterns that are establishing a relationship with them. their partners don’t know. Followers We become their dance acquaintances or shouldn’t add extra turns that weren’t dance friends. We become part of a dance led by their partner just because they community. And, in any community, rules can. These behaviors create an une- evolve about good ways to behave. These venness between the dancers. They are commonly referred to as rules of eti- indicate that “I am at a higher level quette. Such rules have appeared on these than you are.” Of course it might be pages before, but I thought I’d add my own true that one partner has more skill stamp on them to highlight the ways they than the other but the goal of social contribute to creating a sense of community. dancing isn’t to point that out. The goals are to enjoy each other’s compa- Jeff Ringer is a professor of Communication ny by executing a jointly enacted se- Studies at St. Cloud State University , a 1. Don’t embarrass your partners by ries of steps that reflect the music and ballroom dance instructor, and owner of pointing out errors you think they are to create an environment where every- StudioJeff School of Ballroom Dance in St. making. You might think you are one in the room has fun, learns, and Cloud, MN. For more info: being helpful but you are also saying “I feels a part of the community. Being www.studiojeff.com know something you don’t.” That cre- “in sync” with each other’s skill level ates an unequal relationship that is more will help you achieve those goals. appropriate on a lesson than on the social dance floor. When social dancing, we 3. Don’t embarrass your partners by want to have fun. We want to be in the monopolizing them the entire even- moment and enjoy the dancing, but being ing. At a social dance we all want to informed that your partner knows more participate. We also want to become than you do can spoil the moment. An- better dancers and dancing with a lot other reason you want to avoid this is of people will help that. If you only that there is a good chance you are dance with one person all night it wrong. Although we might think we makes you look either insecure or know why our partners are making a controlling and reflects negatively on mistake, many times we are contributing your partner too. Ask lots of people to to the mistake. A follower might make dance and accept most requests to an error on an underarm turn because the dance. leader led it incorrectly. Sometimes a leader steps on the follower’s foot be- 4. Don’t embarrass your partners by cause it was in the wrong place. Just like ignoring the rules of the dance floor. in marriage, both dance partners usually The slow dances move counter clock- contribute to the problems they experi- wise around the outside of the dance ence and the best place and time to ana- floor. Maintain that flow. The faster lyze those problems is at a dance lesson. dances are done in the center of the dance floor. (Continued on next page)
12 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______(Jeff, continued from previous page)
COMPETITION CALENDAR
Jan 10–11, 2015
Follow those patterns and pay attention to The Snow Ball DanceSport Competition those around you. Don’t just plow through Hosted by Donna Edelstein, Minneapolis/St Paul, MN the crowd bumping into every other couple. Leaders are responsible for executing steps Jan 16-18, 2015 that will fit the space. If the floor is crowd- Manhattan Amateur Classic (MAC)–NQE (2015) ed, then tighter and perhaps simpler pat- USA Dance Chapter #3004 at Manhattan Center in Manhattan NY terns are called for. Followers should exe- cute controlled steps on underarm turns so Jan 24, 2015 you don’t smack into the couple next to PDX Ballroom Classic—NQE (2015) you. It takes time to develop these skills Hosted by USA Dance Chapter #1006 in Portland, OR referred to as floor-craft but they are im- portant and make a dance event fun for Feb 14–15, 2015 everyone. Mid–Atlantic Championships – NQE (2015)
Hosted by Mid-Eastern USA Dance Chapter #6001, Bethesda, MD. 5. Don’t embarrass your partners when being asked to dance. It can be embar- Feb 28, 2015 rassing when someone turns down your Quest For the Best request to dance especially when others witness the rejection. But it is unreasona- Hosted by Seattle Chapter #1004, Lynwood, WA. ble to expect everyone to accept every Mar 21, 2015 request. So what to do? If you have a good reason to say no (you are tired after 3 Phoenix USA DanceSport Challenge hours of dancing, you just got stepped on, Hosted by Phoenix Chapter #4033, Phoenix, AZ you don’t know the steps to this particular dance, and so forth), explain that reason. Mar 27–29, 2015 Don’t say no to someone and two seconds 2015 National DanceSport Championships later accept an offer from someone else. To be held in Baltimore, MD. Don’t lie! Be kind. If you are willing to dance with that person later in the evening, June, 2015 say so. Find a way to communicate that NJ DanceSport Classic-Summer Sizzler—NQE (2016) the rejection is about you not them. Date TBD – To be held in Hackensack, NJ
I’ve written these rules above to be “other June 26-28, 2015 focused.” They draw our attention to the Gumbo DanceSport Championships—NQE (2016) impact our behaviors have on others. If we follow these rules, we’ll be more likely to Hosted by Phoenix Chapter #4033, Phoenix, AZ create the fun supportive environment that July 9-11, 2015 we all want at social dance events. Twin Cities Open Ballroom Championships Hosted by Scott and Amy Anderson in Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN
July 25, 2015 Mid-Summer Classic– NQE (2016) Hosted by southern Star Chapter #6038, Tampa, FL
Oct 30–Nov 1, 2015 Chicago DanceSport Challenge – NQE (2016) Hosted by Chicagoland USA Dance Chapter #2001, Chicago, IL.
13 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
14 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______THE DANCING LIFE: THE ARTIST WITHIN US By Elizabeth Dickinson
allroom dance occupies a singular Impulses to create show up sometimes in B place among the arts (even among ordinary situations: how you dress, or how other forms of dance), because it blends you decorate a room, or a cake, or your aspects of sport, socializing, and art. hair. Don’t minimize these expressions— they are a part of what makes you Feeling compelled to dance truly is an artis- unique. Whatever you take the time to do tic impulse to create. especially well is one of your talents.
All dancers (social, performing, competi- Creativity is a stream flowing through you, tive) have at least some aspect of the artist demanding expression. It provides ener- archetype inside them. gy. If you dam it up, you prevent the flow of your natural creative insight. You may In Caroline Myss’ fine book “Archetypes: A even wall yourself up against self- Beginner’s Guide to Your Inner-Net”, she transformation. writes that the journey of the Artist/Creative Elizabeth Dickinson is a life/executive archetype is one of self-exploration— In this New Year, what creative expression coach and amateur ballroom dancer. exploring the depths of your creativity and do you want to initiate or explore fur- If you enjoy her writing and would its profound power to transform everything ther? What’s one step you can take today to like to receive her weekly emailed in your life. honor that creative impulse? coaching newsletter, contact her at: [email protected]. Talent is something we do, rather than May we pursue the path of creativity, with- something we have. Too many people dis- out being overly concerned about the results. count expressing their gifts out of fear of not being good enough, of not making money, or of coming across as “ordinary”.
15 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
16 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
ASK DR. DANCE Submit your questions to Dr. Dance at [email protected].
My dance partner and I are in a relationship. When we practice to- gether, we argue and disagree with each other a lot. I’m afraid this Q: will spill over into other areas of our relationship. How can we talk to each other about our dance in a way that is constructive and helpful, instead of angry and childish?
Donna says: Communicating with a Fourth, remember that competitive dancing deaf by having a coach to mediate problems. dance partner can be very touchy. Just a is a team endeavor. The more you can en- If something does not work and neither of disappointed or annoyed look can implode a courage and enjoy your partner, the greater you can fix it, leave it for the coach and practice session. So, how do you avoid hurt- their -- and your achievements will become. move on to the next step. Dancing is a pas- ing your partner, and diminishing your pro- sionate affair and as such, both of you prob- gress? High level dancing requires relaxation, co- ably feel strongly about what you think is operation and awareness. Giving 'attitude' right. Remember that sometimes both of you First, have goals for each practice. For ex- negates all these qualities. So if your goal is may be right and the problem is something ample, decide that the first portion of your to dance well, controlling your negative that only a third eye can remedy. practice will be to warm up your legs, feet verbal, visual, and tactile communications is and hips, matching your partners movement essential to building an enjoyable partner- Something else that you can think about is to and swing. Dance in a practice hold. ship. properly warm up before trying your rou- tines. Do this by yourself and slowly go Second, focus on yourself and what you can It's not easy. But it's worth it. Good luck over everything you want to address in your do to improve. After you've focused on with your dancing! practice. You'll have a better chance of suc- yourselves, then agree that you can each cess if you have a focused warm-up. make a suggestion of what you as a couple Paul says: This is complicated, as they can try differently. Try one persons sugges- say! It is ironic that many people start danc- Give each other the opportunity to talk and tion and then the other persons. Don't criti- ing in order to find a life partner or someone REALLY listen, even if you feel they are cize, just do it. to share their passion. Then, when they suc- wrong. You don't learn anything by talking, ceed, they proceed to sabotage the relation- and by giving the other person the oppor- Then continue to practice in a practice hold, ship by having adversarial practices. Some- tunity to explain what troubles him or her, this time focusing on the direction of move- times this arises when one partner is more you may well gain a different perspective. ment of the two bodies. experienced than the other and assumes a teacher mentality. This is sure to end in Finally, I am not qualified to give relation- Once you are moving in harmony and disaster unless "teacher" has a soft touch ship advice, but it would seem to me that warmed up, then you should take up hold. and even softer approach. However, unless nothing should be more important than your the "teacher" is a professional, he or she personal relationship. If your dancing starts Now it's time to focus on frame and relaxa- probably lacks the skill and training to do to erode the relationship, remember why you tion, breathing together as a couple. that. started dancing in the first place.
Third, If you find you are having unsolvable Start by having a conversation about expec- problems, agree to write them down and tations and goals, both individually and bring them to your next lesson. Let your combined so that you are on the same page. coach help you. Avoid the adage of the blind leading the
Donna Edelstein is a coach, judge, Paul Botes is a dance instructor, and organizer of the Snow Ball coach, choreographer, and judge. DanceSport Competition. He is an owner of American Clas- [email protected] or sic Ballroom, located in Chanhas- 763-557-6006 sen, MN. www.acballroom.com
17 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
Competing at the World Championships Vancouver, Canada By Janie Nordberg
ndy and I, along with four other couples from the United ing around the world in our division is so much higher than I sus- A states, had the great honor of representing the USA in the Sen- pected. It was a great experience to get to be a part of it and to be ior II Standard World Championship, held on November 15, 2014 in inspired to improve our own dancing. Vancouver, Canada. We were overjoyed to make it to the third round which was the top 36 out of 55 couples competing. All five United The competition was very well run, and the hotel was beautiful. We States couples made it to the top 36; and two couples made it to the even enjoyed the outdoor pool and spa. I balked at first, but then Andy quarter-final. reminded me of my “northern Minnesota” tough blood and I couldn’t resist the challenge! We stayed an extra day to enjoy the city. Van- We had a wonderful time getting to know the other couples from the couver is a beautiful place to visit with lots of scenic views and parks USA and building friendships that we otherwise might not have had and great night life. We asked the helpful hotel concierge for advice the opportunity to build. There was a parade in the evening for all on where to go for dinner. She sent us to a place called “Steam the couples competing in the Senior II World Championship that we Works”, and we were not disappointed. The food was to die for, the participated in. It was a very surreal moment and felt a bit like being ale quite good, and the place was filled with happy celebratory people! part of the Olympics! It was amazing to watch the top couples in We will definitely look forward to the next opportunity to compete at our division competing in the semi-final and final. The level of danc- a WDSF world event.
18 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
19 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
Cinema Ballroom’s Frozen Winter Showcase! By Eric Hudson
n Saturday, December 6, over two- However, I know that it is the whole com- O hundred spectators watched seventy- munity of dancers that transforms a new- five participants dance in nearly 900 entries comer’s experience from feelings of anxiety at the Cinema Ballroom Frozen Winter to feelings of warmth, appreciation, and Showcase! community. I hear echoed over and over again that it is about the friends made, the Inspiration, support, and satisfaction are a support received, and the family-like com- few of the main ingredients for a successful munity that is developed. This is what is ballroom dance event. This year’s event was most inspiring to me. filled to the brim with all three. Viewing great ballroom dancing, and engaging in the The two hundred plus audience members wonderful positive effects through participa- supported the dancers all night with their Eric Hudson is US National Professional tion are great, but the best part of the event high energy and appreciation. The support and Pro/Am American Smooth, American was the celebration of community! did not stop there. Rhythm, and International Latin Champion, Inspiration came in many forms at the Cinema Ballroom also sponsored a Benefit a national coach and owner of Cinema Showcase. Students performed in American Dance, which was a polka, to provide sup- Ballroom. For more information: http:// Smooth, American Rhythm, Nightclub, In- port to the Children’s Cancer Research fund. www.cinemaballroom.com ternational Standard and International Latin. Cinema Ballroom matched the funds raised The showcase included students and teach- from the benefit dance. Thanks to all who ers enrolled in proficiencies ranging from participated in this worthy cause. beginning through advanced. Audiences absorbed beautiful solo presentations and We were also witness to a touching dedica- holiday-themed formations. The hard- tion made from a dancer at the Showcase. working and exceptionally talented team of This gentleman made a dedication to the professionals capped the evening off with a recent passing of his wife and to the dance terrific show! It featured solos and a mix of community for its support and care. Support Ballroom and Latin presentations. It is comes in many forms, and this dedication special to have so many high level profes- reinforced the healing power of dance and sionals sharing their skill and passion right the support that comes from a positive com- here in Minnesota. munity.
The most inspirational however, did not go Finally, is the satisfaction of a job well done. to any specific person or performance; it The satisfaction gained from setting a goal went to the dance community. Although with your dance partner or teacher is only there are many examples of stewardship and the start. The Showcase is where we get to support that I witness on a daily basis at the make it a reality, then marvel together with ballroom, I’d like to point out one of my your community on what you’ve done. Now favorite, which is the reception of a new- let’s set another goal! comer dancer at a showcase.
I remember my feelings as I took the floor for my first time years ago. I was excited, anx- ious, and ultimately relieved. Every dancer knows what it’s like to take the floor for the first time. As a staff member, I get to meet with the dancers through the night, and I so appreciate their expression of excitement and gratitude for what we do to facilitate some- thing they love.
20 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______FROZEN Winter Showcase Cinema Ballroom
Lisa’s first ballroom dance
21 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______Dancers Studio Winter Showcase! Photos submitted by dsEventcenter
22 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
LAST LOOK . . . . . WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS!
Mini-dance lesson at Cinema Ballroom
The newly elected 2015-2016 Board of Directors for USA Dance Minnesota Chapter #2011. From left to right: Dan Fitzgerald, Karen Maldonado, Leland Whitney, Joyce Thompson, Leslie Whitney, Ed Soltis, Tom Crable.
23 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
DANCE PARTNER WANTED ADS Looking for a practice partner? Compose an ad letting potential partners know what you’re looking for and how to contact you. Submit ads to [email protected]. Please include area code with any phone number.
►Justin Sundberg 612-964-1741, [email protected] ►Luz Taaca 952-232-8958, [email protected] Lead, 5’10”, 28, seeks practice partner for Follow, 5’ 4”, seeks practice partner for smooth, rhythm, and WCS. Open to all styles bronze/some silver-level smooth and rhythm. and possible lessons or competition. 3 years Takes private lessons. Loves to perform. Available for try-out. experience. Will provide floor time at a major studio. Possible lesson sharing, showcases, or competitions.
24 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______COMPETITION RESULTS
25 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______DANCE CONTACTS A collection of businesses and clubs of interest to Minnesota dancers. If you’d like to be listed on this page, send your contact information to [email protected].
NORTH STAR DANCE STUDIO TAPESTRY FOLKDANCE CENTER STUDIOS Bloomington, MN 3748 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis 612-799-4147 612-722-2914 AMERICAN CLASSIC BALLROOM Facebook.com/northstar.dancestudio www.tapestryfolkdance.org 550 Market Street, Chanhassen 952-934-0900 RENDEZVOUS DANCE STUDIO UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA www.acballroom.com Minneapolis BALLROOM DANCE CLUB 612-872-1562 [email protected] ARTHUR MURRAY DANCE STUDIO www.theplacetodance.com Is.gd/umnbdc 534 Selby Avenue, St. Paul 651-227-3200 SOCIAL DANCE STUDIO USA DANCE, MINNESOTA 3742 23rd Ave S, Minneapolis CHAPTER 2011 BALANCE POINTE STUDIOS 612-353-4445 [email protected] 5808 W 36th Street, St. Louis Park www.socialdancestudio.com www.usadance-minnesota.org 952-922-8612 www.balancepointestudios.com STUDIOJEFF 701 St. Germain St W, Suite 201, BALLROOM & LATIN DANCE CLUB St. Cloud SERVICES 1103 W. Burnsville Pkwy, Burnsville 320-266-4137 952-292-0524 www.studiojeff.com LYNNE’S DANCE NEWS www.ballroom-club.com www.organizeronduty.com Contact: Lynne Schulz BLUE MOON BALLROOM [email protected] 2030 Hwy 14 E, Rochester CLUBS Services: Weekly listing of dance events
507-288-0556 AQUA GLIDERS DANCE CLUB www.BlueMoonBallroom.com MADE FOR MOVEMENT 612-869-3062 952-595-0003 CINEMA BALLROOM www.made4movement.com CAFÉ BAILAR 1560 St. Clair Ave, St. Paul Contact: Marsha Wiest Hines www.cafebailar.com 651-699-5910 Services: Costume design, tailoring. www.cinemaballroom.com COTILLION DANCE CLUB OF OH SEW SPECIAL COSTA RICA BALLROOM DANCE STILLWATER 7300 South France Avenue, Suite STUDIOS 651-388-1231 323, Edina [email protected] 816 Mainstreet, Hopkins 952-746-5539 Contacts: Scott and Maggie Paynter 952-303-3339 www.ohsewspecial.net www.costaricaballroom.com Contact: Susan Richardson LADANZA DANCE CLUB Services: Tailoring, alterations, redesign DAHL DANCE CENTER Stillwater, MN 651-439-3152 4204 North Hwy 52, Rochester SATIN STICHES LTD. Facebook.com/LaDanzaDanceClub 507-252-1848 11894 Round Lake Blvd NW, Contacts: Mark and Wanda Bierbrauer www.dahldance.com Minneapolis
763-323-9507 DANCE AND ENTERTAINMENT LAKESIDE DANCE CLUB 1-800-48SATIN 320-763-6432 www.satinstiches.com 651-605-5784 [email protected] Contact: Deborah J. Nelson [email protected] www.lakesideballroom.org Services: Custom-designed dancewear www.danceandentertainment.com
DANCE WITH US AMERICA LINDEN HILLS DANCING CLUB 651-636-9747 10 Southdale Center, Edina www.lindenhillsdancingclub.org 612-564-5483 INSTRUCTORS www.dancewithusamerica.com MN WEST COAST SWING DANCE Scott Anderson………...... 612-816-4446 DANCELIFE BALLROOM CLUB Wanda Bierbraurer.. …….. 651-439-3152 6015 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis 651-487-6821 Rachel Damiani ……...... 612-718-6823 612-345-4219, www.dancelifeballroom.com mnwestcoastswingdanceclub.com Nathan Daniels ……...... 763-464-1021 Jennelle Donnay……...... 651-357-2060 DANCERS STUDIO REBELS SWING DANCE CLUB Julie Delene…………...... 612-598-5355 415 Pascal Street N, Saint Paul 952-941-0906 Donna Edelstein……...... 612-910-2690 651-641-0777 www.tcrebels.com Jennifer Foster………...... 952-922-8316 www.dancersstudio.com Robert Foster…………..... 952-922-8316 STARDUST DANCE CLUB Esther Granbois………..... 612-872-1562 FOUR SEASONS DANCE STUDIO [email protected] Lindsey Rebecca Hall...... 612-940-9546 1637 Hennepin Ave S, Minneapolis Julie Jacobson………...... 651-261-6442 612-342-0902 SUBURBAN-WINTERSET DANCE Jay Larson……………..... 651-387-3886 www.fourseasonsdance.com CLUB Kristina Lee…………...... 715.821.9039 Woman’s Club of Minneapolis, Deanne Michael……...... 612-508-9255 FRED ASTAIRE DANCE STUDIO 410 Oak Grove Street, Minneapolis Monica Mohn………...... 612-874-0747 1975 Seneca Road, Eagan, MN 952-894-1412 Mariusz Olszewski…...... 612-242-5159 651-451-6300 www.suburbanwinterset.com Mary Rosenstiel……….... 612-720-2584 www.FredAstaireMN.com Char Torkelson…………. 612-709-6399 TANGO SOCIETY OF MINNESOTA Lisa Vogel……………..... 651-208-0818 MILL CITY BALLROOM 612-224-2905 James Wood…………...... 651-242-2421 2382 Hampden Ave, St. Paul 612-562-2733 www.mntango.org www.millcityballroom.com 26 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______
27 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org ______An official publication of USA Dance Minnesota MINNESOTA DANCER 13801 Minnetonka Drive, Minnetonka, MN 55305
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
28 MD / January 2015 www.usadance-minnesota.org