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Letters - May 2001
"American Smooth is so subjective... that's why I love it and participate in it. I'm reminded of its subjectivity when one time, I saw David Hamilton and Olga Foraponava get tripped-up in a final... wouldn't you count falling flat on the floor a mistake? Of course not, because we know it was a fluke and they're better dancers than that. That's where the politics and subjectivity come into play. Judges are picking the best dancers based on the overall performance of the dancers; taking into account not only the night that's currently being judged, but all the nights they've danced over the past month(s)/year(s). Maybe Valentina did dance better than Toni that night, but unless she can do that repeatedly, she won't surpass Toni on the marks sheet. Overtaking a champion is usually a process. You have to sell yourself to the judges for months... I don't have a problem with this, because when you finally win, you've really earned it, it's not just a fluke. This is my opinion, of course, so you can take it or leave it... just keep dancing!"
Shouldn't the best couple on the night win? It seems very unfair to discount the best couple just because the champs have a track record. Wouldn't you say that's heavy politics?
J, thanks for the best dance site on the web and keep up all the wonderful work you do for the dancer.
Regards, Maureen Slabbert
Ed
I'm so tired of hearing about the
politics in dancing - IT'S SICK... a pain, particularly in our country,
but first your Q. The best way to try to understand what causes comp politics
is by relating it to other sports. Maureen, let's say the two of us are
boxing for the world lightweight title. In the 12 and final round I'm far
ahead on points because I out-classed you with my wonderful boxing skills.
In the dying moments, you swipe me with a lucky left hook, yes Maureen
it was luck, and I'm out cold. Now you tell me, who wins on the night?...
the judges have no say. Everything they scored before your walloping left
is wiped out. Had you not knocked me out, then the decision would be left
to the politicians. And the same goes for Tennis (always a points' winner),
Soccer (penalty shoot-out), etc. Unlike other sports, dance-comp decisions
depend solely on opinion - the human factor... no goals or knock-outs to
conclusively say, "I was lucky, but I won"
The human factor is the biggest scourge in every sport. Take the goal that Sundowners scored against Pirates recently where the Linesman ruled it offside and everybody (including the camera) saw it miles from offside. Thanks to a bad decision by an official, that disallowed goal will probably cost Sundowners the title and the prize of R1,200,000 for winning. Unfortunately, we cannot knock our opponent out at comps, although, "falling flat on the floor" tells me someone tried to do just that, and I know of many competitors who would revel in giving a "Maureen left hook" to a few adjudicators.
So my answer to "Overtaking a champion is usually a process. You have to sell yourself to the judges for months" is pure cockamamie BULL. If you are the best on the night, you WIN, period. What's more, winning would give the challenger a boost and the champ would get a jolt, both sensations being excellent for dancing.
To this sentence, "One thing I truly love about the American dance public is that they are not afraid to speak out" I say YES, I also truly love them for that. The oppression in DanceSport South Africa, particularly the competitive side, is so bad it makes the old Apartheid system look democratically good by comparison. Competitive dancers are threatened, that if they write to me and complain, they'll get into "DEEP TROUBLE". If they complain too often, officials hold it against them. I really think it's a disgrace, a discredit to the sport, it must certainly have a stifling affect.
If a dancer cannot FREELY ask a judge or FREELY write to me for the answer to "why do you score me 6th place every time while the other judges give me 1st's & 2nd's?" or does not have the right to oppose the system, then dancers in this country will get nowhere, except by unshackling themselves to another land. When our dancers are sent to their Sheep's Kraal, they are taught to say "ja baas", "ja my koning", "dankie baas". Being a sycophant (I know a better word) is the obedient attitude to adopt, nothing else is accepted by the authorities, and woe to all the honest, outspoken people.
I have a huge collection of letters from disgruntled dancers dying to be published but request denied for security reasons. Heaven help the oppressors the day a dancer gives his/her OK... and that day is just 'round the corner, so watch this space for mega action - for the sake of the sport, I CAN'T WAIT.. When I read the intrigues and how officials manipulate things to their own advantage, it really is a disgrace to DanceSport. They're not interested in the dancer's potential or how well the dancer can do for the country, they are just concerned about how clean they can keep they own noses while they throw their weight around. The dancer is just a pathetic little puppet, a victim of their system. I'm ashamed to be part of the SA DanceSport scene. I'm ashamed that dancers haven't the guts to stand up, and at least say "bah, bah" for the sake of the sport, and the officials haven't got the courage to justify their side - it's really very sad.
While in their kraal, South African
dancers won't achieve much in the dance world, oh yes, we will feature
in the top 100 as usual, and don't give me the "Michael Wentink, Bryan
Watson, Nicole Cutler" scenario, they had to make the great escape to get
to where they are today.
Cccccc Yaaaaa
Roy !!!!
Ed
Hey Roy, long time no hear from.
Have the officials also sent you to the SIN BIN, sheep's kaal. Nice hearing
from you again and thanks for the info. Someone asked me what does Ccccc
Yaaaa mean. I said, "see you (C U)"
Someone sent me these SA Latin Couples
and their placings:
Rafique Hoosain & Janine Roach
- 18
Grant Simpson & Hayley Hammond
- 69
Grant Baartzes & Viveca Petersen
- 75
I would like to question Roy's information about the latest Blackpool results concerning Riegard Van Der Merwe and Lana Isaacs of Cape Town. According to the Blackpool Result Listing, they were placed in the last 204 out of 204 couples in the Under 21 Latin Section on Sunday. The Under 21 Modern Section will only be danced today, 29 May 2001 at 3.00 pm. Who made the mistake? I'm sure there are a number of dancers and dance enthusiasts out there who would like to know what the true outcome was.
Kind regards, Dance Enthusiast (Cape Town) - Roy's Reply
I want to point out an error in the mail from Roy about Riegard and Lana. According to the IDSF results they were in the last 204 and NOT 24. PLEASE CORRECT THIS ERROR AS THIS INFORMATION IS MISLEADING TO ALL SA DANCERS.
The official IDSF Youth Latin results
can be viewed at the following site:
http://www.blackpooldancefestival.net/under21lat01.shtml.
The Youth Standard is only being danced today - Roy's Reply
Thanks, Marion
Ed
Marion, I have emailed both yours
and Dance Enthusiast's query to Roy for his reply. Thanks for pointing
it out.
Dave Fourie & Theresa Fourie
made it to the last 49 in the Senior Latin section at the British.
Ccccc Yaaaa
Roy !!!
Ed
Thanks Roy, now we know it all.
I was wondering if you could perhaps tell me which competition it was where Grant Baartzes, Grant Simpson & Rafique were placed 18, 69 & 75. cheers 4 now.
Ccccc Yaaaa
Roy !!!!!
Ed
Not sure about the Grant's and Rafique.
I related it to Blackpool where all the action is at present; will follow-up.
If my memory serves me correctly, Dave & Theresa Fourie are from Latin
Look in Pretoria. Sonja Stanford is their coach.
Roy, don't stop surfing, and thanks
for the info
Secondly, I would also like to congratulate Rafick & Janine on a splendid performance. Once again they proved that a sound technical-base always pays off. They are in my opinion distinctly brilliant. Also congrats to Ryan & Arianna as well as Grant & Hayley. Once again Quintus has shown us that hard work & lots of dedication does the job. Well done to Quintus & Irene.
Last but not least, our dethroned 1999 South African Champion went to the British, pulled out all the stops but failed to make the last 101 couples in the most prestigious competition in the world. Well done on your attempt Grant Mandon !!
Perhaps it's time that these talented dancers consider a change of style or a change of coaches, as their obvious talent & dedication is not being explored enough.
Leon Abrahams
Ed
Leon, thanks for passing on your
congrats to our dancers who performed well abroad.
As I promised here is an update on
the Dance Planet:
That's it for now, but if I have
forgotten anything I will e-mail you again. Can you please update our website
with the new info and I will soon be sending you some photos of me my partner
and some of our students.
3 years ago a certain professional told me and Szymon that because we started our dance school in the East Rand it would not be successful. My answer to that person was that it does not matter where you teach as long as you teach quality lessons with passion you can make it anywhere, and I hope that person is reading this e-mail now.
Thanks for a fabulous website Jay
Chow, Ipatia (Danceplanet)
Ed
Ipatia, I love success stories, and
it's great to know that Dance Planet is
moving and grooving - upwardly mobile. Did you know that 75% of all who
start their own business fail. That's why there are so many sceptics. So
Ipatia you and Szymon are a special breed... from another planet. Thanks
for the info, and make a healthy habit of it.
The new telephone number is (012) 331 7963.
Thank you very much. Keep up the good work
Susan van Wyk
Ed
Well Susan, Eschape is real cute
and cosy and you are part of the most popular, genuine dance website in
South Africa. Nothing phoney about DISA. Now you need to get into the wicked
habit of tuning us in with frequent updates of your latest kush. Thanks
for your loyal support
Sonja and i are leaving for London tonight for the British and can u believe my bad timing... only writing my letter now????
First of all, thanks for the note on our fundraiser. We had a 120 guests and made just over R5000, not bad. We would again just like to thank all the people that have supported us during all the shows and fundraisers during the past 2 months.
The 2001 Dance Congress - Review
What can i say, a marvellous idea
for the benefit of all dancers, but an impossible task.
We have said this over and over for so many years now, that what dancing in this country needs is workshops for our competitive dancers. How many times have we seen that international dancers and coaches are brought out to SA to coach and demonstrate at the most ridiculous fees. Such a waste of money and effort. Here am i trying for months, for the second time, to establish some kind of a dance workshop-basis for our entire competitive dance world in SA to enable dancers to grow and improve their standards - as well as for our coaches.
The gap between the average dancer in SA and a top dancer in SA is so so so huge, because the top dancer makes an effort to train and compete internationally, whereas the average dancer relies on the training of only one (or maybe 2 coaches, if they are allowed to without their trainer finding out about it) to get them somewhere. That is it. no money, no honey. 95% of the dancers in SA have not got the money to go overseas, simple!!! Our dancers, especially those on championship level are never in a position where they can actually go to a day of lectures, and listen to other trainers lecturing on dancing which could, or let's say WILL help their dancing get better. Just listening to the lectures in Blackpool, makes u relies how much there is to learn.
Our dancers here at home don't need those trainers because i don't think our dancers are really ready for the international trainers. the average local dancer won't understand what they are talking about. Our local trainers can do the same job for a cheaper rate. The chances of going to a lecturer or workshop to maybe just, and i say just, pick up a few tips that can actually improve his or hers dancing, unfortunately does not exists.
In London, there are workshops and lectures being given all the time and dancers can take ideas from many many different coaches. Meanwhile, we have the couches and dancers here to actually teach and drill the basic fundamentals into our young up-and-coming dancers, who could also one day become world champions like Brain and Michael, but yet, not many trainers and studio heads seem to agree with me on this subject. why?????? Answer, we behave like selfish, one-track-minded amateurs!!!!!
I heard trainers and studio heads saying this to me; “i cant let my students go and sit there listening to those people! what do they know?”, “are u out of your mind? what if i loose my students?”, “i don't like such and such a lecturer, so i won't send my pupils”, “let me know closer to the time, i am too busy right now.”, “u know, there are so many competitions every month, i think my students need a break away from all his dancing”, “Saturday after Saturday the same bloody judges mark my pupils down for no reason, now u want me to send my pupils to go and listen to those old f....”, “i think it is a fantastic idea, but i don't like the topics that your lecturers are lecturing on", “it is far too expensive, why don't u make it free, or why cant u get a sponsor?”
And so i can go on and on. The egos amongst most of our studio heads and pros as far as i am concern, stinks. Most of the people are unfortunately only in it for their own pockets and could not care about the standards of their pupils. Most studio heads are afraid that they might lose their students, because they know they are not really up to the job, therefore someone else might just influence his pupil. The general politics also makes it extremely difficult. We have to start thinking and acting like professionals. Dancing is a team sport.
There was hardly any coloured dancers at the congress, yet i advertised so well and so long in advance amongst the studios and especially those in Enerdale (Brain Hussein)... where were they? I can't tell how many studios, especially coloured studios promised me that they would be there. I even made special provision for some to come freeeee!!!! Can u BELIEVE i did that.
Except for Brian Schmidt and Lilian Phororo who were there, nobody else from the professional board attended. I was even promised by Paul Kgole (the president) that he would attend... never came. One of the lecturers did not even pitched!!!! but thanks to Mark Dooley that gap was filled. Another arrived 2 minutes late, and Paul and Sandra Smuts-Steyn were willing to stand in at short notice. Thanks to Diane Moore who was basically the only lecturer along with Fred Mcann who sat through all the lecturers all day, listening to the other lecturers. Now that is what i call professional stuff!!!.
All the lectures, once again were world class!!!!! Every lecturer on my panel was absolutely outstanding and so so so well prepared. It was unfortunately that all the knowledge went to only a hand-full of people and not to the whole dance community. This was the ideal opportunity for parents and studio heads to question lecturers. The attendance was to say the least... shocking, and AGAIN! a financial loss. On the happy side, the next day Lilian wrote me a very nice letter, that alone has inspired me to try one more, last time.
What dancers, must understand, is that i am not doing this for myself or to get an ego boost or to win a popularity contest. I get enough attention and love and ego boosts from my students, family and best friends and my training i get in London and here with my local trainers on a weekly basis. I do it for the love of dance and because i feel i can make a difference with this congress, because nobody else does anything in any case... then i always have to hear that this and that goes for development and education! Question... what am i busy doing here?
To those who attended, thank u, and
to my DJ and lecturers, thanks a million, and to the others that helped
me, u were
great. Also thanks to the DDSC
for your financial contribution of R6400, and my special message to those
who were not there... wake up!!!!
Ryno van den berg
Ed
Ryno, you did it all wrong. The only
way to attract a large audience to a dance workshop is to invite 3 Bunny
girls and 2 Chippendales and let them do the forbidden dance (Lambada)
during breaks. But who needs sponsors or an audience when someone like
DDSC contributes R6400 to the coffer.
Re your Workshop... need I say anything, your letter politicizes it politely - competitive DanceSport is really a laughing stock, to say the least. Ryno, next time we'll skip the politics and concentrate on the nuts and bolts of what was discussed, so that we can share all that wonderful expertise with the world. But I'm glad you mentioned the politics, because no-one wants to believe it exits. For the politics, I've opened my door wide to all those dancers who wish to twist and shout about what they feel.
You keep praising me for what I do for DanceSport - thanks, but let me tell you that you are a true ambassador to SA competitive dancing. Just about every dancer I bump into says, "did you see Ryno on the Toasty Show?", "did you see Ryno on the Felicia's Show?", "did you see Ryno in the Pretoria news, the Beeld, at the Malls?"... PROMOTING DanceSport, and you do it all on your little lonesome without the help of the establishment - TAKE 5, and thanks for your input. GOOD LUCK at the British.
By the way, what are the names of
the old f....?
To give it a name I suggest simply THE SOCIAL DANCE SCENE. Maybe your other readers have a better suggestion. This “button” could be included in you Home Page.
I also suggest that the page is broken up into various objective categories such as Where To Dance; Forthcoming Dances; The Good, Bad and Ugly, reserved for critics such as myself, Where to Learn to Dance and so on.
I also suggest that we offer prizes, such as free dance lessons, for the best letter of the month and for the one who sends in the most e-mail addresses of dancers only. I am sure that some studios will happily oblige in providing the prizes.
As I mentioned earlier it is a great idea. The South African Social Dance scene is starving for something along these lines. The promised, much-talked about glossy magazine that was supposed to be published has not materialised - just a pipe dream, I am sure.
I would love to hear the views of other readers and dancers.
So let’s get the show on the road and make DanceInfo even better than it is. I say this with all sincerity as can be evidenced by the way you tackle your web site and the dance scene with tremendous love and enthusiasm - it is inspiring.
DanceCrit
Ed
Brilliant idea DC. Will get started
on it immediately.
If this "Internet mag" idea encourages
dancers to write and participate it could be a great convenience to the
dancer and the social scene, and I reckon it could also be a lot of fun.
Thank for the help and interest.
"Just wondering, am I the only person in here that gets grossed out by a sweaty dance partner?
I read one of the topics in the general dance discussion and noticed that most people don't mind dancing with a partner who sweats, so I didn't feel comfortable posting anything on there for fear of being called "weird".
I have a partner who sweats profusely. He gets sweat all over me. Not only that but he is much taller than me, so he also breathes bad breath on me and he gets a white film on the sides of his mouth which totally grosses me out.
We can't even get half way through the first dance when we start to practice without him sweating! Sometimes he brings an extra shirt, but sometimes not. At any rate, he needs to bring 100 shirts!
He is a nice person, and I don't know how to bring up this subject with him. I'm embarrassed to say anything. I get warm when I dance, but I don't really sweat, so I can't even relate to how much he sweats!
I have been asked by someone else if I would be interested in forming a dance partnership. This other person does not sweat, is closer to my height/weight and I haven't noticed if he has bad breath or not, but I've never seen him with that white stuff on his mouth. I don't want to hurt my current partner's feelings, but I really would like to dance with this other person.
I know the obvious answer from everyone is going to be to switch partners, which is what I would rather do. How do I do this without hurting my current partner's feelings? And should I say anything about his hygiene? I am sure he's aware of his hygiene, but we just never talk about it. Or should I just switch partners and let my current partner's next partner talk to him about his hygiene?
HELP!!!!"
If i was this girl i'd change my partner double-quick time.
Jay i think the "social dance scene" page is a marvellous idea. Did you see they show a dance sport programme at 4 am these days?
Buy, Kate Martins
Ed
I doubt whether you'd enjoy my version,
but here goes. Dancers who sweat profusely or suffer from extreme bad breath,
and I'm not talking the stale onion-garlic guzzler's reek, I'm talking
chronic and unnatural, should be alerted if unaware of the problem, and
mostly they are so close to their home stench they ain't got a clue.
Let's look at the explicit picture. In dancing, unlike most sports, the man allures his partner close to him, then lifts his arms, shoving his hairy, dew-dripping armpits over her snozzle. Then, while poised in this belly-to-belly stance, huffs and puffs his stinky halitosis all over her as a grand intro to the pleasantry of social dancing. But there is more, after a dance or three his mass of sour, armpit-onion, hamburger whiff then slithers down her hand along her arm impregnating her pretty white dress on the way down. Ladies, trust me, there are men who honestly believe females relish the stench of raw sweat, it brings the animal out of them - turns the female specie on wicked.
"Help" could do one of several things;
2nd, if she really loves this dude as a person and as a dancer, should opt to tactfully tell him that she grosses out every time he sweats like a pig and that his hell-'o-a-tosis is a total turn-off. She could say, "Jim, I don't know how to say this but I abhor the way you sweat like a pig and your stinky breath is unbearable, it grosses me out" Katie, only kidding. Katie I told you not to say it like that. Now you've caused a stink.
Seriously, some humans sweat more freely than others, depending on what they drink or eat or how much weight they carry around. Sweating is nature's way of keeping us cool when over-heated, and it's also our cleansing mechanism that rids our body of the poisons - healthy. The equipment needed for over-ssweating are; a towel; males should wear a vest or undershirt and a spare shirt or two will do; females avoid sleeveless tops or bare arms; a can of "shield for sportsmen" or a stick of "mum"; a tissue or two for the white froth 'round the mouth (sounds like a wild dog on heat), and most importantly, clean clothes prevents the sweat from smelling or staling.
Bad breath is a sensitive issue. No-one will say it, except to your friends and then have a good giggle over your stinky breath, or you have that onion-ring, under-the-arm-pit, sweaty, hamburger smell about you, and you won't even know that you do. For example, I play squash; my opponent walks on to the court and blasts me with his TNT garlic breath. Within seconds the court is filled, totally saturated, polluted to the hilt. I say, "had a garlic party last night?" he says, "a little, why, can you smell it?". The over-powering stench almost catapults me off the court, saturating my clothes and kit with stale garlic, I miss the ball a few times as a result, and my opponent says "why, can you smell it?".
Dancing is a sophisticated close-contact sport which deserves a few social finesses - we owe it to our partners if not to ourselves. And what about the stale smoke smell, mixed in alcohol, with a touch of pure sweat, covered in garlic... huffing and puffing - need a sure-fire repellent? you've got it. These are the things nobody wants to discuss, but they do offend, and they offend the non-indulger in particular.
A colleague of mine, a great guy,
suffered from an acute, unnatural dose of halitosis. Behind his back, the
other staff called him the village skunk and every time he came near they
would disappear, but nobody had the guts to tell him. I thought this very
unfair, because he was totally oblivious of the problem, so I suggested
he see Dr Zook, which he did... problem solved. He couldn't thank me enough
afterwards. Millions of humans have a hell-'o-a-tosis problem, it's just
that it seems more prevalent in the wonderful world of dance, because of
the mouth-to-nose contact we make. One of the worst things to cause bad
breath is taking vitamin tables regularly, and you didn't even know that,
because you are too close to the smell.
Tickets are R275 at the door, or call
Mostapha on 082 899 6281 - includes a 3 course meal, fashion show, entertainment,
auction of garments and donation to the Pretoria charity
: PTA - Against women and child abuse.
The studio is attached to a three bedroom house in the north. It consists of a 130 m2 room with a tiled floor and mirrors and barres and an upright piano. Downstairs is an office, two toilets and a change room with lockers and a waiting area. The waiting area leads onto the house through a single door. The house has three bedrooms and two large lounges, a swimming pool, servants quarters and a large established garden. The entire property is (1600m2) which is about 1/3 of an acre. It is next door to a primary school and up the road from a high school. To see a basic layout of the studio plan, chlick here
There are currently about 90 students at the studio and about 150 children that are taught at different nursery schools three mornings per week. I teach Tap (a little), Jazz, Ballet (a little) and Hip-Hop competitively and Ballroom, Latin American, Irish and Line Dancing Socially. A large number of the students are adults and they do open classes. It doesn’t matter what syllabus is taught.
The right person should be fun, energetic and a good choreographer as my students enjoy doing new work.
The studio includes all students, house, upright piano, studio hi-fi and computer, portable hi-fi for nursery schools, telephone number, excess signboards for advertising, website (domain name http://www.dancing.co.za) with one years hosting, lockers in change room, chairs in waiting area, curtains and blinds in studio, and all videos and syllabus books.
You can contact me on 082-903-6788 or info@dancing.co.za.
Regards, Elize
Ed
I have also placed your ad in the
"News Flash" section
Ed
Marion, thanks for the info and well
done to Andre and Beata.
Argentinean Tango has become the most
popular dance-form at Gardels and with this in mind, Ralph will be hosting
Wednesday night Tango Salons every
second Wednesday. Next Salon details are as follows:-
Tango Salon
Every Second Wednesday at
"Gardels"
**Next Tango Salon**
Next Salon: Wednesday 23 May
@ 8.00 p.m.
There will be a Pizza/Pasta
menu from Gambini's Restaurant available for the hungry!
Cover Charge: R25 per person
Venue: Ralph's Dance Studio, Sunninghill
A great night of the wonderful Argentinean
Tango!
(Phone Ralph on 082 481 9400 to book
or for more info
or email casano@netactive.co.za)
Many thanks, as always,
I have been involved in dancing for a couple of years now (social) and have a really great place to dance on a Saturday night. The Latin Connection is a new dance studio in Olivedale and I was there on Saturday night. WHAT A PARTY!
Reading through some of the other e-mails I noticed that some people actually looking for a place to dance on a Saturday night. We had a choice of Chinese food, Pizza & Pasta or Portuguese food which is unique, the shows they had were brilliant, the dance floor is big (wooden) and the music is good. They are new so not that many people know about them, but they really are doing a great job.
So all you people out there who are looking for a place to dance on a Saturday night go to the LATIN CONNECTION. There is no politics or show-offs, and the vibe is brilliant.
If you need directions phone Bobby on 072-149-1871
Thanks for a great site J.
Cheers, Dennis.
Ed
Dennis, info
greatly appreciated. Hope it's not the last time we hear from you, because
we're thinking of opening a special page "where to go social dancing".
It's letters like yours, Wez Meyo,
Elsa
and DanceCrit's that will sprinkle juicy suggestions
for the discerning social dancer - the raver who wants ample space, good
dance music, lekker food, etc. can showmanship be taught to everyone regardless
Club Millionaire's, Motor City, Main Reef Road, Industria. "Ball of the Year" 2 June. R30,00 per person. Phone Carmen or Bernie 672-7275.
Here's another E-mail address for your collection
DanceCrit
Ed
DC, thanks
for the e-address and the info for our social dancers, greatly appreciated.
Cheers, Dan Cooper, and Jay, let me add, Dance info is by far the best site for us dancers in South Africa. Thanks for keeping us up to date with all the interesting stuff, and connected with all the right dance websites.
Ed
Dan, thanks
for the compliment.
Now, if apes can be taught to smile or look sad, surprised, perform, etc. then there is no reason why humans can't be trained to do the same. When ape trainers audition apes, they don't consider personality, they just pick 'n ape with a body and a brain. But then again, apes ain't plagued with the hang-ups of humans. Their slate is clean, and they obediently do what their master trains them to do.
Humans must first be convinced, "you have the potential, a brain, eyes, ears, emotions, co-ordination, etc." before they realise that there is a glimmer of hope, a touch of personality which could be transformed into fire. True, some humans weren't near the front of the line when flair and natural personality was offered at the sale. Which doesn't mean they haven't the vital spark. It merely suggests they'll need to consciously work on it to get their inner self surfaced.
Here's a SA case in point; once-upon-a-time there was a very shy, inhibited, insignificant social dancer by the name of Sonja Stanford (Ryno van den Berg's partner) who now boast the Pro Latin Gauteng title, represented South Africa abroad many times and are going great guns at present. Now Dan, beyond my wildest fantasies, did I ever think Sonja would star in a stage show at a restaurant and perform with voluptuous spontaneity and personality. I mean, they tell me, that during a Cha-Cha demo, Sonja flame-through her projection like a fireball; she enticed and embraced her audience, sat on laps and simply caused a sensation. Sonja's "now" is living proof that deap down within every earthling lies an A bomb waiting to be detonated. Gloria Estefan is another heroin who's natural P = shy and timid - nude of confidence... look at her now.
Those not naturally endowed with the gift to brag, should watch and study those who do it spontaneously, or seemingly so, because very, very few dancers can project spontaneously. It usually takes many hours of studied rehearsal. Actors do it, singers do it, modern dancers do it... FOR HOURS in front of the mirror, working on presentation, showmanship, the smile, the curve of the hand and the perfect line of the arm, the poise and graceful expression of the body.
Showmanship is not only the expression of the face, it's the expression of the body, the interpretation of the music, the capacity of a dancer to entertain the audience by projecting his/her style and personality in a flashy way. Although showmanship is the innate, natural ability to 'perform' with extra flair and panache, it can be learned by all who have a passion for dance and a burning desire to perfect every aspect.
Those interested
in other opinions on the subject, here's a link off the web to a similar
Q; "Grace
-- Can it be learned or taught?"
Thanks for all your lovely work j
Cheers, Ryno van den Berg
Cheers, Bobby
Ed
A pre-empt
welcome aboard, and thanks for your support, and for all the email addresses,
WOW ! that's a healthy collection for my address book - mooochas gracia.
Bobby, by being a studio subscriber on my site you can be well assured that any news you send me will be promptly, efficiently and effectively dispensed to all DISA's followers... the DANCER.
In the meantime,
I've designed your page,
check it out, and let me know what you want changed.
Regards, Wez Mayo
Ed
Wez, now it's
linked. Thanks for the contact. And Wez, don't forget to let us know whenever
you discover a new, exciting dance spots.
Enjoy a night of dining and dancing the sultry South American way and learn a Tango line dance! (recommended for all 9 – 90’s with a sense of adventure)
The taste, the touch, the sound – experience the essence of South America in the Argentinean ‘home from home’.
So - see you all there on the 19th May 2001!!!!!
R25 cover charge • bookings 011-463 3128
Regards, Mareli
Ed
Lovers of Dance,
DON'T miss this one - see you there.
We also included some sections for the early grades. Had an Easter Fair and are now working on our next Variety Show for the beginning of August. Would have been nice to have a few South African performers but don't think many people would want to visit Zim at this point in time.
Will keep in touch.
Kind regards, Ken
Ed
Ken, thanks
for the email. I gave Milton and Yvonne Demmer your email, did you ever
get in contact with each other? Although the average South African is somewhat
apprehensive about Zim, this letter might help attract a few performers,
who knows?
"The vows of the competitor"
Ed
Amy, I know
that every competitive couple will find your contribution to DanceSport
exciting. Thanks for the email.
We are a Latin American Dance Studio situated in Olivedale; we specialize in Latin American, Argentine Tango and Ballroom. We offer Group classes, private lessons and Saturday night parties.
SPECIALS:
First ½
hour for only R20-00 per person!
Wedding couples.
High school
students.
GROUP CLASSES:
Monday Beginners
Latin class 19h30-20h30 R30-00 per person
Practice session
20h30-21h30
Wednesday Intermediate
Latin class 20h00-21h00 R30-00 per person
Practice session
21h00-22h00
Thursday Dancercise
class (Ladies only) 17h30-18h15 R20-00 per person
Advance Latin
class 19h30-20h30 R30-00 per person
Practice session
20h30-21h30
Friday
Beginners Argentine Tango 18h30-19h15 R30-00 per person
Beginners Ballroom
class 19h30-20h30 R30-00 per person
Practice session
20h30-21h30
Saturday Dancercise
class(Ladies only) 10h30-11h15 R20-00 per person
Pre-teen line
dance 11h30-12h00 R10-00 per person
Teen Latin
hip-hop class 12h00-13h00 R15-00 per person
EVERYBODY IS WELCOME T0 JOIN IN THE PRACTICE SESSIONS!
DINNER DANCE
EVERY SATURDAY:
Every Saturday
we have a dinner dance entance is R20-00 per person and you have choice
of Portuguese, Chinese or pizza & pasta.
Once a month
we will have a dinner dance that includes dinner and professional shows.
(you will be updated)
For more information
please do not hesitate to contact Bobby, Nathan, or Angie on 072 149
1871
Hi Jay
Just an update on the KZN Dress code situation. The Zululand festival was held on the 5th of May and Linda Meakin managed to hire out 6 dresses. It seems that improving the dress code is being spread by word of mouth. We will hopefully have more dresses to sell and hire for the Empangeni comp on the 26th of May. Please note that the selling price starts at R30 a dress and there are a variety of colours to chose from. Rental is R1 an hour (just to cover the laundry costs).Thanks, Chantal
Ed
Chantal, what you and Linda Meakin in KZN are doing is totally unpolitical, it's pro-active and mega-productive - keep up the splendid work for DanceSport, and whenever you need a push from my side, whistle!your site with all its dance information is not part of SA DanceSport's dance links Hi Jay
Don't know if you have noticed but SA DanceSport Gauteng's website has removed your dance link from their site. They still have your site's name "Dance Info" with no description next to it, but when you click on it, it opens their own homepage.What I find extremely strange is that your site with all its dance information and links, is not part of their Dance Link page. Yours should be on top of their list, yet they deem it important to list other South African sites which have nothing to offer.
Thanks for all the interest letters
Regards, Joan Nell
Ed
Joan, what can I say ??!!For what it's worth, I'll send your letter to Francois Triegaardt their webmaster who does the putting's on and taking's off. He must have a good reason for that, because I have hundreds of links from my site to theirs.
ryno & sonja's fundraiser to improve their ranking of 48th in the world to 24th at the British Hi j
I will very shortly send you a rocking update and full report that you can flash out to the whole of south africa on how the 2001 dance congress went... I have not been able to actually put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard since I don't know how and what to say about this wicked idea of mine that unfortunately seems to be ruined by politics, and especially egos in this so so so so so exciting and “lets work together” dance society in South Africa.Most importantly right now, is our fundraiser on the 19th May here in pretoria. R75 pp with a finger buffet including a dance and 15 cabaret shows. We would appreciate it if people could support us as SA representatives this years in the British. We need the support of all our fans and friends to help us improve our ranking of 48th in the world to 24th this year.
My number for bookings are 082 6333 183
Ryno
Ed
Not sure whether you read this letter from Milton & Yvonne re your 2001 Congress?... only praise. Looking forward to publishing your technical review of the event.15 cabaret shows at your fundraiser, WOW! Who are the performers? Details could attract supporters.
social page... great idea - dancecrit Hi Jay
Here's another e-mail address.I will write to you at a later date regarding the Social Dance Page you mentioned. I think it is a great idea - but will make some suggestions.
Regards, DanceCrit
Ed
Thanks for the e-address - the more the merrier. That way we create connectivity with the dancer.Dance Planet very busy, lots of changes, and back on planet earth Hi Jay
We have been very busy at the Dance Planet and a lot of changes have taken place, I will e-mail all the news as soon as I get a chance.Can you please e-mail me your banking details and I will deposit your R50 asap for our next year's subs. Thanks for the reminder.
Regards, Ipatia
Ed
Hi Ipatia, welcome back... to Mother Earth. How was your trip to planet Zook? Busy! lots of changes! That turns me on, it spells organisation and success.The reminder was merely to tell all my loyal subscribers that I appreciated their support, and that having a page on my site is a great benefit to them and dance. For those who never received the note, here follows:
"Just a gentle reminder that each week I email thousands of updates to my dance-subscribers. By sending regular news about your business you systematically get maximum coverage for your annual R50 fee. Any news will direct dancers to your page, and the more often you send short items, the more you create healthy awareness for your business.
Advertising is very costly, and then you're lucky if you get one or two customers from the thousands you spend. By having a page on my site at R50 a year you should take full advantage of the space, because it not only includes a very attractive page but also is an excellent tool for reaching the right customers 24 hours a day. If you recruit only one customer from my site then your R50 was more than well spent, but to recruit one customer it takes +- 40 visits to your page.
What's more, many companies have beautiful, professionally designed WebPages but no one visits or finds them, because they plonk it on the internet then wait for someone to run in to it - they get lost in the vastness of cyberspace. DISA is an ACTION site. I take your page to the people by sending weekly updates to promote what you have to offer, but if you don't send me items of interest (items that could benefit the visitor) then we'll just have to hope something runs in to it.
At your service 24 hours a day.
Cheers, Jay"
Ipatia, here are my bank details, and thanks again for your support:
My Account details are:
First National Bank
J.J. Helm
Branch: Sunnyside, Number 25-06-45
Account Number 510 6100 7775Dancers, take a trip to the Dance Planet, click here. Ipatia also teaches Belly Dancing.
By the way Ipatia, your Dance Planet page has had 241 visits so far, and you didn't even send me news.
WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE? - Social DanceCrit report Hi Jay
No, you’re not going to make money out of this one and it's not going to cost you a fortune either - but I am sure you will enjoy yourself. After hearing about the Millionaire’s Club we decided to go take a peek. The Club is situated on the Old Main Reef Road, Industria, Johannesburg (Motor City, opposite the cigarette factory just in case you run out). Bookings are made with Sayed on 083 395-2390.The Club is licensed, has a coffee bar and a snack bar serving the most delicious samosas and chilli bites. The patrons are mainly Coloured with a small percentage of White couples. The parking is safe with a watchman in attendance. Dances are held every Saturday night from 8.30 and the dress is smart. The entrance fee is R25,00 per person and they stay open ‘till the early hours of the morning.
The dance floor is of ceramic tiles which are a bit heavy on the old legs. This did not deter the dancers at all. I have never seen so many couples on the dance floor at one time without one collision the whole evening. I was amazed at the floor craft and was introduced to a new type of Samba - very much like a quickstep - but with a bounce. The dancing is energetic and very casual.
One can see, that although the dancers are not technically correct, they really are accomplished in what they do and are enjoying every moment. It made me very envious when I have been dancing so “stiff and exact” for so long. As I mentioned in my previous article - PASSIONATE, SENSUAL AND TANTALIZING on the Tango Argentino - the most important aspect of any dance is to enjoy what you are doing at any level and to be relaxed at the same time.
The Millionaires Club have an eight piece live band going by the name of The Hot Shots. Although they are a bit on the loud side, this band has to be the best I’ve heard in many a year. The keyboard and sax players are outstanding. Their music has a jazzy flavour mixed with a tinkling of the Cape Coloured sound. They play the full range of Latin and Ballroom music. The only complaint I have is that they play far too many sambas.
For an evening that is a bit different and a lot of fun I recommend you visit the Millionaires.
DanceCrit
Ed
Samosas, my favourite nibble. Talking about moving around the floor unobtrusively, here's a short article plucked off the net giving helpful hints on social dancing - you'll find it interesting.DC, I'm pondering on opening a special section to include a collection of your reports and feedback's as a guide for social dancers on where to go dancing or which places to try out. We could call it "the good, the bad and the ugly social page" or "the best and worst of social places" or "pick 'n dance place" or "crit on social dance venues" or simply "the social dancer's page". We'll start with your submissions todate.
The venues would need to be categorise, e.g. "for the old-fashioned ballroom dancer who wants space", "the latin dancer's delight", "the argentine lover's place ", "a crowded sakkie op skop", "modern madness", etc. and, like you did with this one, add a contact number... it could work.
how has dancing changed you? Hi jay
Thanks to your website, I came across this discussion "how has dancing changed you?" Thought you and your readers would enjoy it.Cheers, jack
Ed
Thanks for thinking of us. It would be interesting to know what dancing has done for a few of our dancers. Small thing, so often pupils walk into the studio and say, "I've had a horrid time at the office, don't feel like dancing" then sprint out feeling great after the lesson.updates Tanz Café Morning Jay!!!
Here are the latest updates for Tanz CaféFriday May 4th at 20h30
Shownight Dine & Dance with Didi & Friends.
Didi Moses, currently performing in Grease, and other well-known artists will perform their hearts out on this special night. Join in the fun as they wow you with a little bit of this and a little bit of that; including poetry reading, drag number, impersonations, stand-up comedy, and of course singing and dancing. Don’t miss! Book at Tanz. R30 pp.Delicious continental menu and lots of bar specials.
Saturday May 5th / Friday May 11th / Saturday May 12th Great all-night Dine and Dance Party with Line dancing for the energetic. No cover charge for these evenings of excellent music and atmosphere.
Regular Tanz menu and bar specials.
Friday May 18th - 20h30
Sizzling Hot Latin Cabaret presented by Ryno & Sonja - Currently among the top 48 in The World!!
See top professionals in action and support our South African representatives for the British Open.
R55 pp. Early booking essential.
Saturday May 19th
“The Excitement of Tango” presented by the Tanz Company Dancers. Delight in the passion of the true Tango, Tanz’s house dance, and enjoy an evening of dining and dancing the sultry South American way! R25 cover charge.
Sunday May 20th
The Café Collection - Tanz Café Student Show
Friday May 25th
Smooth Evening of Dance and Romance.
Breathtaking ballroom and acrobatic Adagio Cabaret by Christo, Julie and Tanz Company Dancers.
Dine and Dance the waltzes, quicksteps, foxtrots, tangos... Will send something on the b-day as well.Ciao, elsa/mareli
Ed
Thanks, and see you at the show. Believe the birthday bash was a smash of a hit.results of freestyle comp held at Sun City this weekend Goodday J
Can you please advise where one would get the results from the Competition that was held at Sun City this weekend.Thanks, Sandy Bole
Ed
Sure, here's the link to the SunCity Comp results. Once in it, bookmark it to your favourites then click on "Freestyle"Hi Jay
Thanks so much - I would like to know if you can also telll me where the modern and hip results (Thursday and Friday's) would be.thanks, Sandy
Ed
I doubt whether all the results have been processed yet, but once completed they will appear on that page. If you don't come right phone Pam Smith @ 011-664 7441 the organiser, or get back to me.where are the dance clubs in Pretoria? Hi Jay
I am interested to know about dance clubs in Pretoria. I used to do it in another province, now I am in Pretoria. I would like to attend classes. If it is possible can you give me the addresses to these dance clubs.Grace
Ed
Hi Grace, if you are looking for clubs to go dancing, here's the link. If you are looking for clubs/studios to learn to dance, this is the linkvery interesting article in the Worman's Weekly, 20 years back Dear Jay
Over the weekend I did some clearing out of old magazines and when I say old they go back 20 years.There was a very interesting article in the Worman's Weekly (overseas magazine) about a prestigious dancing competition with pictures and a lady sticking sequins on her dress!
I would like to either show you the article or fax it to you but I am worried that when Photostatting the pictures they may not come out clearly, but it only reiterates what Milton has been writing about.
Amazing what you come across when you decide to have a clean out.
Please let me know if you are interested!
Kind regards
Yvonne Demmer
Ed
Yvonne, very interested. The best way to get the photos to me is via email, but someone will first have to scan the photos for you. A fax is a definite no-no for sending photos. Alternatively, when you see Ryno again, give the photos to him to get to me. In the meantime, type the article or parts thereof and email it to meno freestyle dancing schools in cape town Hi J
I have recently moved to Cape Town from Johannesburg where I danced at Diana Moore Dancing Studio in Germiston. I have searched for something similar here in Cape Town – but have been told that there are not any “freestyle” dancing schools here. I would really love to complete my “teachers” but more than that, I would love to continue dancing. I am not really interested in Latin American Ballroom as my husband does not enjoy dancing.Please could you assist me in finding a freestyle (or anything similar) here in Cape Town – preferably near Blouberg or the City.
Thanks, Natalie Brauer
Ed
To extract info from the Cape has always been a migraine to me, but let's take a shot in the dark and hope a dancer runs into it... maaaaaybeee, just maybe a kind someone will respond to our SOS. In this letter we found a Belly dancer in Pretoria for Sanet. In the meantime I will recce around for you. I'd also like the info for DISA.Ryno's 2001 SA Dance Congress huge success Hi Jay
Here I am once again!
As you know the South African Dance Congress 2001 run by Ryno was held at the Italian Club over the weekend of the 21st and 22nd April. Yvonne and I attended the Saturday session and found it very rewarding and informative, in fact as good, if not better than last year.Unfortunately, despite all the effort put in by Ryno, the attendance was very poor. In fact if it had not been for the support of certain studios, I am sure Ryno would have had to cancel. (The Smuts-Steyn studio - 12 and McCann Studio - 16 and I believe there were only one couuple missing from each of these studios). I understand that the other studio to give their support was Sonja’s and of course Ryno! There may have been the odd one from other studios of which we are not aware! If so, our apologies for omitting their names - we’d hate to offend anyone.
We won't leave out Ryno!
Ryno organised some of the top people in the professional dancing world and it was such a pity that it was not better supported as they spoke on some very interesting subjects and, in fact, we were able to pick up many useful tips. Not only that, but, as you know, we are all inclined to criticise the adjudicators, well Ryno had a session whereby 4 latin couples in different grades danced in front of three judges, and were judged as they felt fit. Afterwards these judges gave the placings of each couple and their reasons why these placings were given. The audience were also allowed to question the adjudicators if they so wished, which was an excellent idea. I think this was appreciated by all as it gave us food for thought!We feel that the poor attendance must rest on the shoulders of the studio heads who should have encouraged their couples to attend. I know R65-00 to some may have seemed excessive but when you saw the valuable tips and knowledge gained it was well worth it.
Yvonne and I hope that Ryno will continue to give these sessions and not be discouraged.
All we can say is WELL DONE RYNO and thank you!
That’s all for now - until next time.
Kind regards, Milton (and Yvonne!)
Ed
Milton, glad it's you again - always happy to receive and share dance news with our community. Thanks for filling us in on Ryno's fruitful affair. True, it's a shame when dance knowledge is being dispensed by top professionals and then the turnout, by those who really need it, but can't afford to attend, is sparse.Maybe, Ryno should share the admission fee with FEDANSA, i.e. FEDANSA, who so freely, so regularly and so proudly boast the enormous growth and popularity of competitive DanceSport (growth incrementally = mega bucks), can surely subsidise half the admission fee, plus pay the professionals handsomely for the time they spend sharing their knowledge and experiences.
Milton, since I'm a stickler for dance technique, here's a suggestion for the next Ryno Congress. Yvonne attends as your scribe, armed with a pencil, rubber and notepad. Then, whenever a speaker articulates anything that could be of value to the dancer, Yv jots it down and sends it Jay's way for global publication.
For instance, what are the criteria of the adjudicators. How did the adjudicators justify the criticism levelled at them. What were the questions put to the adjudicators by the audience and the answers. By doing it this way, we sprinkle the nitty gritty of the sport further afield. For the dancer, what transpired at the Congress would be the key to spreading knowledge.
Yvonne & Milton, how about sending us your review of what was said at this Congress, as you remember it.
lindy hop male partners needed hi jay
i've got something for your 'partners needed' section:Male Partners needed - for the Lindy Hop (the original Swing Dance from the '30s - see 'Letters') Beginners classes startedd on the 24.04.2001 at the Tanzcafe in Brynston - Students welcome at any time - First lesson free. Contact Oliver on 082-9007101.
Thanks
any Belly Dancing Studios in Pretoria Hi Jay,
I've browse through your website and didn't find any Belly Dancing Studios / Schools in the Pretoria area. Could you please forward me some info. on studio's in PTA. I could contact.Thank you
Sanet
Ed
I've had several calls asking the same Q, and as far as I know Pretoria doesn't cater for B dancing. I think Phyllis of the Academy of Belly Dancing sometimes comes through to Pta to give classes.Elsa replies to "any Belly Dancing in Pretoria?" Hi Jay
I see somebody was looking for belly dance classes in Pretoria. I can vouch for a very good teacher in Hatfield. Contact Mostapha at 3423855 for detail.Regards, Elsa
Ed
Thanks for the help Elsa, and how's your belly gyrations?? and why isn't Mostapha listed on DISA??Charlotte replies to "any Belly Dancing in Pretoria?" Hi Jay
re below request for Belly dancing studios in PTA - the only one that I am aware of - Sanet might want to look up, is Mostapha’s - in Duncan Street, Hatfield - Tel : 012 342 3855 - speak to Mostapha himself - and learn the traditional Moroccan belly dancing style - he has a reputation for perfection - good luck Sanet!Charlotte
Ed
Charlotte, thanks for your help. So Mostapha is a male belly dancer, that's unusual and interesting. Dancers who would like to see what Charlotte has achieved as a Belly Dancer, click hereLADIES BE WARNED Hi J
Ladies, read this;"I was approached yesterday afternoon around 3:30 pm in a Woolworth’s parking lot, by two males, asking what kind of perfume I was wearing. Then they asked if I’d like to sample some fabulous scent they were willing to sell me at a very reasonable rate. I probably would have agreed had I not received an email some weeks ago, warning of a “wanna smell this neat perfume?” scam.
The men continued to stand between parked cars, I guess to wait for someone else to hit on. I stopped a lady going toward them, pointed at them, and told her about how I was sent an e-mail at work about someone walking up to you at the malls or in parking lots, and asking you to SNIFF PERFUME that they are selling at a cheap price. THIS IS NOT PERFUME!!!!!
When you sniff it, you’ll pass out. And they’ll take your wallet, your valuables, and heaven knows what else. If it were not for this e-mail, I probably would have sniffed the “perfume”. But thanks to the generosity of an emailing friend, I was spared whatever might have happened to me. I wanted to do the same for you."
PASS THIS ALONG TO ALL YOUR WOMEN FRIENDS, AND PLEASE BE ALERT, ... AND BEWARE!!!!!!!
Regards, Wez M
Ed
Wez, thanks for the hint.