Capital City Dance Center News Archives

CCDC News Archives - 2006

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12.21.2006: Whee! Get EMail
Here's another gift suggestion from Sandy V:
"...how about ddr. (dance dance revolution) it is so much FUN!!!!!!!!!! it's a video game if you didn't know. i love it and i know a lot of other girls do too!!"
...and, I saw that enthusiasm for the DDR Video game firsthand. I was at a news event at a local middle school recently. Some bigwig coming in to complain about the obesity epidemic in America. We followed him through the lifetime health and fitness program. The DDR station was the most popular. Even had kids arguing over who could go on next...and there were even students stomping around following the instructions who weren't on the touch pad dance surface. It's not really "dancing"...but, any excuse to get kids moving their bodies as opposed to just their thumbs has got to be "revolutionary"! (Contrary to it's name, it's not really a "revolution" in "dance", it's more just clumping about, but, it could lead to better cardio fitness and, maybe, eventually, hopefully lead to better dancing somewhere down the line.) And, the new Nintendo Wii moveable wand-controller seems to have intriguing possibilities. You physically manipulate the wand and your avatar on screen mimics your movement. So, you could actually have to sword fight, play tennis, golf or bowl to win your game. I applaud this trend in using virtual experiences to stimulate real exertion.
And, this note from a CCDC parent:
"...At observation week I was stunned (by) how much progress the kids have made since even the beginning of this year..."
...that's a nice pat on the back to all the teachers and administrators at CCDC.

12.19.2006: Gift Ideas For Young Dancers
Instead of me guessing what young dancers want for Holiday gifts, this year I decided to ask one instead. This is what Sandy V wrote to me:
"...age 10-14 Dance related

dance ornaments for the christmas tree, nutcrackers could also work to. i know that i just love to collect dancers for my christmas tree.

a little bag with a water and a little pack of gold fish and tell them to always keep it in their bag in case of an emergency.

how about a jokers hat and on a tag write "NO JOKE YOU'RE A GREAT DANCER"

oo how about buy some big chocolate hersheys bar and on the computer tight DANCE BAR and put a little ballet shoes on it then print it out and tape it on the top of the hersheys bar then get back on the computer and type up the ingredients: DETERMINATION, DISCIPLINE, FRIENDS, HARD WORK, STAGE PRESENCE, DEDICATION, EMOTION, FLEXIBILITY, TECHNIQUE, FUN...AND A LITTLE BIT OF SUGAR!

dance posters or dance figures

leg warmers. oh you can also tell them that there are a lot of free leg warmers at The Dance Boutique.

age9-20 non dance

lotions and body sprays

lip gloss

jewelry
ages 9-12 non dance

hair scrungies for buns

ribbons saying best buds or number 1 friend..."
...then, I wrote back and asked about IPods, danceware and "bling-bling". She says those are always good, but her list was mostly friend-to-friend. So, how about you? What are you hoping for this Christmas? E-mail me, I'll put it up and and you can tell your family to check out this website for suggestions.
And, btw, just wrote to a father who asked for some help. I suggested DiscountDance.Com. He was thinking about getting a poster or painting of a dancer. I told him to be careful, because there are some pictures and posters taken by non-dancers that are pretty hilarious to real dancers. I also suggested some Swan Lake DVDs or CDs since a lot of the CCDC dancers will be taking part in that this spring. (Getting familiar with the music and some versions of the choreography will help the dancer be better prepared and get off "on the right foot"!) And, always, sweats or clothing with premiere dance company logos are always universally appreciated. Got any other ideas or suggestions? E-mail me!

12.12.2006: Crack Seed Reprise
It can be instructive to watch so many Nutcrackers back to back. Just as it was instructive to watch two dancers side-by-side in Sunday's performance. During a Second Act variation in Ames this weekend, one girl had been coached to be stern to the point of anger. The girl right next to her was just as serious, but there was a more flirtatious edge and a performer's passion that made her much more watchable. This was on top of more stretched knees, better turn-out, technique and, occasionally, pointed feet. A better presentation altogether. And, you can say the same thing about the Civic Center production of the hoary old ballet classic compared to State Center's show. Which is better? Well, one stays truer to the Tchaikovsky score which appeals to the purist in me. But, the other has better production values, a more consistent vision and a guest artist who is still at the top of her game and world-class. So, you picks your poison with your own preferences.
So, I'll insert my annual rants here---and you can skip this paragraph if you remember it from last year: First of all, NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY! It can temporarily blind a dancer and compromise everyone's safety. There should be an announcement before the show. And, speaking of safety, that constantly falling dirty white stuff in the Snow Scene in Ames is also a safety hazard. Someone should call OSHA. Almost every other version in the world saves the snowfall FX for the climax of Act 1. Is it going to take another injury before enough parents complain? And, as I've mentioned, all the "extras" in the State Center version bothers the ballet purist in me. It's insulting to the audience to have the musical sound effects underscore the magic tricks. If it's not as Piotr Ilyich composed it, leave it out. And, that includes all the second act variations that are added in there to get more kids on stage, more tickets sold and more pay in the hands of local choreographers. I don't go to a ballet classic to watch RiverDance break out all of a sudden! What's more disturbing is that the Civic Center version has now added a Hongrois variation this year. Oh, what the heck! Why not throw the Black Swan variation from Swan Lake and the pas de deux from La Corsaire as well? It'll be a four-hour Nutcracker! Give the public its money's worth! Forget the mission statement of educating the public properly about ballet classics anyway! ...Okay. Sorry. End of rant. On with the review.
There's some question as to whether that was really Kennet Oberley underneath all that make-up as Drosselmeyer. That's what it said in the program, but the old Oberley I know wouldn't have sleep-walked so under-rehearsed through that role. When Kennet was Ballet Iowa's artistic director, he admitted he didn't like Nutcracker (I've written before about the love-hate that many dancers have with the annual production.) But, since I criticized the Civic Center Dross (At least, he enjoyed the role!), it's only fair that double that criticism go to the Ames character. (Editor's note: We're now being told that was NOT Oberley as Drosselmeyer. And, if that's case, the casting change should have been announced to the audience like is done in every other theater in the world. If I were Kennet, I'd be upset that people thought that was me out there.)
Casey B as Fritz deserves some praise! Double tours en l'air, triple pirouette and echappe' battu in his party scene variation! Very promising in one so young. Hopefully, that technique and turn out will continue to improve as he gets older. And, Sunday's Clara, Sammie E is pretty and vivacious on stage, a strong performer with personality in the tradition of expressive Ankeny dancers. Her smile nearly always comes from someplace inside, not put on by someone from the outside. If you enjoy what you're doing, you should let it show...especially on stage! Erin B and Katya W did well as the Moor and Ballerina Dolls. Good turns, Ekaterina!
I still love the food props the pudgy mice haul on to the stage: a slice of apple the size of a watermelon, a piece of Swiss cheese as big as a small TV, an olive inflated to the size of a small beach ball, a Ritz cracker bigger than an extra humongous pizza! But, I think that big mousetrap should be used to catapult chunks of cheese at the soldiers. That way the mice force can answer the big cannon with their own heavy artillery! And (skipping around with these suggestions), Mother Ginger's wig should come rolling back onto stage after he/she goes reeling off stage left. You could have one of the youngest dancers run out to pick it up. And, shouldn't her dress at least be all one color?
And, Marc H almost single-handedly dances just about every male role in the Second Act! What happens if he ever oversleeps? Let's see what he did: Nutcracker Prince, Arabian, Neopolitan, Hungarian and the Partridge in a Pear Tree! Okay, just kidding about that last one! But, any guys out there with a little dance training? Marc needs a breather! He just needs to get back in a good class and strengthen his technique a bit more. Then, those pirouettes and tours could be truly spectacular.
I'm not a big Momchil Mladenov fan. If the Civic Center's Cavalier looked a little like Keanu Reeves in tights, Mladenov looks like a taller Nicholas Cage in white. So, they both pass the eye test just standing there. But, I have to give the edge to IDT's Mikhail Ronnikov in the battle of male variations. Give credit to Momchil for attempting more than last year, but his consecutive double tours en l'air separated by a single pirouette preparation were sloppy and lost front. I'm not saying they're easy, but, show us what you can do, not what you can't do well. Both Cavaliers are good partners, but, experience shows. And, Mladenov's Grand Pas de Deux with Bonnie Pickard was seamless and adroit.
And, I'm usually a big fan of Sugar Plum Fairy Pickard. But, I was not blown away this year. She only has herself to blame because she set such a high standard last December. But, make no mistake about it, there were no mistakes in the variation. But, she did not take my breath away this year. Last year, I was positively asthmatic. This year, just slightly wheezy.
Kudos to all the Capital City Dance Center students in the Ames production! I watched you all, in parts big and small. You make me proud: David, Anna, Catherine, KK, Sarah, Sarah, Sally, Shannon, Katie, Maddie, Elizabeth, Hanna, Maggie, Natasha, Macey, Sean, Sophie and too many more younger dancers to mention.
But, after all those mixed Nuts, what was PBS playing as part of their fund drive on statewide educational TV Sunday night? That's right, Mikhail Baryshnikov's American Ballet Theater in the Nutcracker with Gelsey Kirkland, Warren Conover, Steven Hook and the other artists of ABT. So, what did I do? I turned it off and watched a recording of Heroes instead. Save the cheerleader. Save the world.

12.9.2006: 'Nut-racker' Weekend
Three down, one more to go.
It's Nutcracker weekend, folks. For most people that means catching one show and embarking on a magical journey to the Land of Sweets, Marzipans and Sugar Plums. For dance educators like us, it can mean an endless array of assorted Nuts and, possibly, a depressing journey through the dreaded Swamp of Soggy Saute's, past the Bramble of Bumbled Balances and, finally, into the Forest of Flexed Feet. But, even as we check into the Castle of Clumpy Choreography, we catch glimpses, here and there, of a pose that grows, a line that lingers and a genuine smile of enchanted enjoyment. And, that, for us, is the true magic of Nutcracker. The opportunity for dancers to grow from small, wide-eyed children venturing for the first time onto that enormous stage...into radiant role models for a new generation of aspiring dancers. Now, most will not complete that journey, but, the rare handful that do are the true reward for dance teachers and balletomanes.
And, speaking of that legacy, it was a welcome surprise to see the return of Ron Olsen to the Civic Center stage in Iowa Dance Theatre's production this weekend. Ron and I danced together for two seasons for the Des Moines Ballet/Ballet Iowa company years and years ago. We need more like Ron on stage in the party scene. If there were, the choreography could be more interesting and challenging than it is with just volunteer non-dancer dads. (And, I'm told that apparently prosthetic rear he strapped on as Herr Waddlechin...was no prosthetic!)
The two Claras this year are real performers: Hattie M and Madelin R. Whenever they skip or prance onto stage, they make me smile. Hattie has effortless extensions that make Gumby look like he has rigor mortis! And, Maddy's million-watt smile illuminates the Civic Center stage like no other! They're both stronger en pointe than you expect at that age. And, both have unlimited potential as they move up the casting list in seasons to come.
The half-to-two-thirds full houses on Friday and Saturday saw some new wrinkles in the party scene. But, I think that Drosselmeyer's appearance from that box needs more than extra lighting help. How hard could it be to add a puff of smoke to embellish his transmogrification? And, Mark Gruber could possibly benefit from more challenge and input into his role. When I last coached a Drosselmeyer, we worked on character, deep backstory, the meaning of magic in the life of a young girl about to become a woman and a complicated and complex series of motivations. Drosselemeyer can be a pivotal catalyst in the Nut mix, I think he should be symbolic of all things mysterious, joyous and wondrous in Clara's life. It shouldn't be just a throwaway.
Omaha Theater Ballet's Wade Schaaf guested as Snow King with local dancer Dora N as his Snow Queen. Schaaf needs to gel his hair back to keep it out of his eyes. He'd look much more like a King that way and less like a retro-hippy dancer dude. And, there's three main reasons why partnering work can be a chore to watch: lack of rehearsal, lack of skill and lack of experience. Or some combination of the three. Schaaf and Dora were better on Saturday than they were on Friday. (That jump to shoulder sit was a half-inch away from flying out of his grasp!) But, the choreography didn't match the music. There should be lifts or jumps when the music soars. Movement should amplify and exemplify the music...not belabor or belittle. Whatever it was, it was pedestrian.
The same can be said for the Waltz of the Flowers choreography. I don't buy the excuse that poorly trained or young dancers limits what can be done. It can, but, a good choreographer should be able to show off what his dancers can do, and, at the same time, make it interesting for the audience. Rose Queen Jenny P showed some rock-solid balances, but, her talent wasn't best displayed by the steps. And, why, oh, why have her flash her bottom to the audience all the time? Sure, Jenny has no bad side, but, there is such a thing as good taste after all.
And, as I've written earlier, the guest principals pass the eye test. But, Sugar Plum Jeanette Medina's youth and lack of experience in principal roles showed up early and often Friday (She was better Saturday). The 19-year old lost her middle more than once and pivoted on her heel at least twice. She's not a turner, even with an experienced partner behind her. The world's slowest "whip turns" in the world were on parade Friday. In a few years, she'll probably earn her money guesting in Nutcrackers. But, this was not that year.
And, I was ready to write off Cavalier (Misspelled in the program) Mikhail Ronnikov after a lackluster variation on Friday. But, I was pleasantly surprised to see Misha pull off some difficult consecutive tours en l'air double with a feather-soft landing twice on Saturday. His fouette' saute' arabesques and grand jete' en tournants were a shade too leisurely for me. But, it's nice to see a big man jump well. And, I think he needs a bigger stage. His grand menage in the coda ran out of room both days.
Other dancers who deserve kudos: Lexi R in Hungarian and along with her evil twin, Averi H in Spanish, Ginger Soloist Kali Mikelson, Merlitons Courtney C, Monica M and Sarah S for some strong balances, Party scene dolls Emily S, Sydney M for the great smiles and Rachel H for strong jumps, and Snow Crystal Katherine E.
Three down, one to go.

And, did you hear that IDT got some national publicity on NBC's The Tonight Show with Jay Leno? Apparently someone sent him the IDT poster with a big misspelled Nutracker on it! Talk about missing Must C TV! Just what the midwest needs...more proof of culture!

12.8.2006: Let The Nutty Weekend Begin!
Here's something I wrote to a young dancer after catching an early IDT Nutcracker performance yesterday:
"...The only suggestions I have are to concentrate on all the corrections about placement that I give you in class when you're doing your warm-up. Remember to look UP a little more. Think about the people in the very back row! They want to see ya 2! Try to stretch your legs a little bit longer, point your feet a little bit harder, hold your middle a little bit stronger, stay on balance a little bit more...these aren't criticisms, just something that every dancer has to be thinking about when they go on stage.
Whenever I got off stage, I knew if my feet weren't sore from pointing and my knees weren't exhausted from stretching and jumping, then I didn't leave it all on stage! That I could have done a little bit more. But, what the heck was I saving it for???"
...Yes, the long, "nutty" weekend has begun. One promising note: the IDT guest artists looked good. Someone said from South Carolina? And, Wade Schaaf from Omaha Theater Ballet as Snow King. He's mentioned in some reviews in the "Archives". Saw a little bit of finale rehearsal after the school show. That Sugar Plum and Cavalier pass the eye-test at least. They look good just standing there. Now to see if they look good dancing as well. (The Ames show features the return of last year's CCODY winner: Bonnie Pickard and her partner, Momchil Mladenov. He passed the eye-test last year---Think Nicholas Cage with longer legs in tights!---but, not, unfortunately, the performance testing. I think I wrote "...Mladenov is just not Godunov...")
Other things dancers can think about as they head on stage: Do a good warm-up class. Work on placement and technique before you get before the audience. Practice your balances and turns. Turn-out to turn. Pull that stomach in and up! Shoulders back! Don't let your bottom get away from you! Remember to breathe! All that and...have fun! Merde!

12.6.2006: This and That About This and That
Check the "Archives" from last year about this time for tips for preparing for performance. Basically, it's be sure to warm-up and place yourself, practice your technique, take your barre, classes or warm-ups seriously. Get as much rest and sleep as you can. Take your vitamins and eat good meals. Try to avoid getting sick or stressed out. When you get on stage, show what you can do...NOT what you forget to do. Stretch your knees and point your feet. Hold your middle, look up and SMILE! Most of the people in the audience wouldn't know good technique if it bit them on the derriere, but, they do know if you look nervous, serious or grim or fall out of a pose or turn. Don't bother getting stage fright...everybody there wants to see you do well after all. Take a deep breath, have a good time! Remember, you've trained too hard to get to where you're at not to enjoy your time in the spotlight! Remember, it's bad luck to say "Good luck!" Say Merde instead! And, don't whistle in the theater! They're just superstitions, but, when in Rome, do as the Romulans do!) Merde!

More Must CTV apparently coming to the vast wasteland. Rumors of a new reality show about aspiring dancers trying to make it in LA coming on MTV in January. Word is dancer Blake McGrath of the first season of SYTYCD 1 will be in that group. And, the countdown is on to the return of SYTYCD III!

At least four thumbs up from CCDC dancers who saw Happy Feet, the movie about the renegade penguin born into a clan of singers who just wants to dance. What they didn't know is that the tap dance steps were really from Savion Glover in motion capture. I tried to explain it to one of the "evil twins" between classes and she asked "who's that?" Savion if you don't know yet is the best tap dancer of his generation...perhaps the best EVER!

And, as many CCDC students prepare for their Nutcracker performances this weekend (Why ALL 3 at the same time, I wonder?), I stumbled over a blog of a Boston Ballet Corps dancer and her preparations for their holiday classic. I've said it before and I'll say it again, for most American dancers, the very first and last dance they'll do on stage...is a part in the Nutcracker.

12.1.2006: Waltz of the Flower Pedals Next?
Here's a quote from a link contributed by Ekaterina "Katya Dubya" and the entire Wootang! Clan:

"...Thought every twist on Tchaikovsky had been exhausted in holiday seasons past? Think again: San Francisco-based composer Flip Baber writes to tell us about a compositional challenge that made him turn bike parts into instruments:
I was recently approached by award winning advertising agency, Goodby, Silverstein & Partners to do a composition for their client, Specialized. Specialized is a bike manufacturer and they needed some Christmas music, but with a twist: They wanted me to create the music from only bike sounds. They didn’t even know if it was possible, so they left the song choice up to me to see what I could come up with. Since Jingle Bells is a little overdone this time of year, I thought Tchaikovsky’s Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy would be a great alternative. At first I didn’t think it could be done, but as I recorded sounds from my road bike and mountain bike it started to take shape. Here’s the instrumentation and score:
Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy
Glockenspiel & Clarinet melody = spokes.
Cello & Violin pizzicatos = plucked derailleur cables.
Triangle = disc brake hit.
Percussion = shifting, coasting, finger over turning spokes, chain pulls, braking, clipping into pedals, back-spinning, air out of tires.
Even knowing what’s being used, it’s pretty unbelievable once you actually hear the results..."
Hear the entire thing here.

12.1.2006: Never Mind Milk! Got Dance?
Courtesy Newswise — Running and jumping during childhood is more than child's play; it provides lifelong benefits for future bone health and appears to reduce the risk of fractures later in life according to a Journal of Bone and Mineral Research study by Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis researchers.
"Our study demonstrates that exercise when young may reduce the risk of fractures later in life, and the old exercise adage of 'use it or lose it' may not be entirely applicable to the skeleton," said principal investigator, Stuart J. Warden.
Researchers exercised the right forearms of 5-week-old female rats for a few minutes three times a week for seven weeks. The left forearms were not exercised. Bone quantity and structure of the rats' right and left forearms were assessed before and after exercise. Researchers did not exercise the rats for the next 92 weeks -- virtually their entire lifespan. At that point, their forearm bones were assessed again for bone quantity and structure, as well as strength.
"We knew that exercise increases bone size and strength, and that the skeleton is most responsive to exercise during the crucial growing years around puberty when you reach adult size and strength," Warden said.
What was not known, however, was if the skeletal benefits of exercising while young would last a lifetime, Warden said. In other words, he said, "can you use activity while young to offset the risk of osteoporosis, or the risk of bone fractures, later in life?"
The study determined the answer to that question is, "Yes," Warden said.
The researchers found that the rats retained all of the skeletal exercise benefits they obtained while young even though they hadn't exercised for the rest of their lives, Warden said.
The study demonstrates the importance of childhood exercise that stimulates the skeleton, Warden said. Short periods of exercise several times a week are all that is needed to stimulate bone development in children, he added.
The study is available on-line .

11.27.2006: Gotta Watch Dance TV
Well, Secret Slumber Party aside, not much "Must See TV" for dancers now that DWTS has crowned Emmitt Smith in the finale' of Season Two. (Having watched the last show, I still have to vote for Mario as the better dancer technically. No knock on ES. He's a deserving winner. A lot of easy, masculine charisma and charm. But, Mario just a bit sharper to me. You can argue or agree, it's all a judgement call after all.) And, if you're jonesing for a dance fix, I stumbled across a place to get updates on the winner of SYTYCD II. Be sure to check out some of the early, early videos at Benji Schwimmer's website. You can post on their bulletin board, but, you can't post under "BenjisFutureWife". That's already taken. There's talk there about a Schwimmer movie now that he's apparently turned down the Grand Prize of a year dancing in Celine Dion's show in Vegas. Call me a pessimist, but, I don't have a good feeling about a Schwimmer movie. He's got a lot of geeky charm and he can dance. But, can he act? And, can he carry a movie? Or will it be Kelly Meets Justin with dancing? Be afraid, dance fans. Be very afraid.

Okay, now I'm being told there are competing Benji Schwimmer sites. Here's what appears to be the Official one. Schwimmer's involved in charitable work. Good for him! And it looks like "BenjisFutureWife" is up for grabs on this site! Don't all rush at once!

11.20.2006: Echoes from the Celestial Spheres
Here is an excerpt from a recent horoscope:
"...You will be struck by visions of what could be today: When you look at a child, you'll see a glimpse of the talented adult he or she might grow up to be... "
...The only thing is that applies to me everyday. Every day I teach and catch glimpses of the talented dancers our students can become. It's my goal to challenge and push and prod them out of their comfort zone. Most of them don't know how much better they can become. As their teacher, my task is to make sure they don't settle for less than their potential. That happens every class, every exercise. Very few will ever become professional dancers, but, every student can learn to do their best and learn it takes discipline to achieve their dreams. It's a valuable life lesson. And, it's our privilege to impart that everyday.

11.15.2006: Two Stars Remaining
We were driving home in the aftermath of last week's snowstorm last Friday. Had business south of the Twin Cities. It'd been a rough trip. On the way up, just around Albert Lea, a snow and ice-storm struck and traffic on the interstate ground to a halt. We were questioning whether to turn-back or not, but, once I get rolling I hate to stop. I just figured if we went slow enough, we'd be safe. Turned out I was right. So, we were motoring home in our brand-new-to-us vehicle looking forward to watching DWTS, when the talk show host announced the results! This was on Sports Radio! Who woulda thunk? (Darn you, Andrew Siciliano!)
Well, I'm under no illusions that I'll be able to keep from learning the results of the season finale' this week. Only two heavyweights remain: Mario Lopez and Emmitt Smith. Joey faded after a strong start and valiant finish. But, that Emmitt just kept getting better and better after a mediocre beginning.
And, I'm beginning to think there would be advantages if Emmitt wins the entire enchilada. There was an article today in the local rag about how sports bars and dance studios in Texas are both tuning in to the show...just because of the former NFL Superstar. There's a quote that Smith is making dancing "manly" again. But, I actually think that both Mario and Emmitt are "manly men". Guys want to dance like them, girls wanna dance with them. But, Emmitt's NFL pedigree makes it even more okay for guys to get out on the dance floor again.
I actually think Mario is the better dancer, but, I won't quibble if Emmitt pulls the upset this week. They're both good and worthy of winning. But, if the hand that raises the mirror-ball trophy at the end just happens to be wearing three Super Bowl rings, that wouldn't be a bad thing!
And, what do dancers watch now that DWTS is ending? Must See TV for me could end up being...Secret Slumber Party! Okay, I am a little bit embarassed to admit I kept watching when I tuned in early looking for some football this weekend. I know this show is aimed at pre-teen girls, and what am I, a manly man's man, doing watching? I just didn't click the remote after I caught a hip-hop choreographer breaking down some moves for two teams of dance contestants. I'm just starved for dance on the tube is my explanation. That's my story! ...and I'm sticking to it! Maluhia out!

11.8.2006: Fast Dance Time Shifting
Have I mentioned I hate trying to "time-shift" a program...and learning the result before I get a chance to watch? It happened again this past week. I guess I should've learned my lesson, but, the news that Monique Coleman was eliminated from Dancing With The Stars was part of the internet headlines downloaded into my PDA early in the week. But, as I mentioned, I thought that was a strong possibility...and when Mario was one of the last two couples left standing, everyone knew (even Monique) that she'd danced her last dance on DWTS. And, how touching to have her mother just charge onto the dance floor on a live national television show to console her daughter. How strong a mother's love!...And, I have a renewed respect for ballroom professional Cheryl Burke! She's the defending professional champion, having guided last season's winner (Drew Lachey) to the mirror-ball trophy. This time she's helping shape Emmitt Smith into a real contender for the title. A good choreographer showcases a dancer's strengths. Shows what they can do...not what they can't. (Unlike Monique's partner, Louie. I think he made a tactical error by overestimating what his rising "star" could do well. No disrespect to Monique! She challenged herself to keep up. But, as the judges pointed out: "Sometimes...less is more!") Cheryl Burke is versatile enough to show what her star can do without making it boring. Plus, she's obviously an excellent teacher to take two different "stars" from two different backgrounds to the later rounds. I forget. Was she in the first season? Some of it's the luck of the draw. How successful could she have been if she were matched with Master P, Jerry Springer or Harry Hamlin?...If they return for next season, watch for Cheryl and her star to be a "dark horse"...and, I think that Kym Johnson could do well given half a chance. Imagine her paired with a Mario or a Joey! Don't bet against her...and keep watching for the semi-and-finals! Should be fun! Maluhia out!

11.7.2006: Hamer-O-Gram
Whee! Get e-mail:

Here is another article related to dance medicine from the same doctor as the previous article (Dr. Nick DiNubile, M.D.). This one discusses special considerations in dance medicine and why dancers are so hard to treat. It also mentions that out of a study of 60 sports (rated on over 20 different components) that the toughest "sport" is ballet. I think we already knew dancers were more tough than football players though!
Alissa :)

11.1.2006: Must See TV
It's starting to look like Mario Lopez will be the last star left dancing on DWTS. Emotional moment last week when the aging, affable and still charming, Jerry Springer fought back tears when he tried to describe what the experience had meant to him. There must be a lot of new-found respect from a lot of new-found fans for the man the media describes as the "schlockmeister" of talk TV. An immensely likeable guy who at the end was begging the public to vote him off, Jerry lasted longer than he had a right to expect...but, not what he didn't deserve. The high point was his waltz a few weeks ago, a tribute to his soon to be married only daughter. The dance technique may have been mediocre, but, the emotional content brought tears to the eyes of many. So, a fond farewell to this season's answer to George Hamilton...And, I'm keeping my fingers crossed, but, it looks like Monique will be the next to go. The three remaining men (Mario, Joey and Emmit) are so strong...with the former NFL superstar perhaps improving the most. Joey faltered for a few weeks there, but, has returned to form...I didn't post any DWTS observations last week because my recording set-up failed to deliver. I kept checking the website for video of the show...but, they post almost everything except the entire latest DWTS dance segments. They should at least post the full dance sequences with judges' comments and scores. (But, separately, so those of us who only have broadband at work can check out the segments during spare breaks while the rats rate a rare racing rest!). I like the blogs and extended confessionals, but, what about when the public (never mind the public, WHAT ABOUT ME!) misses a live telecast? I wonder if it's a choreography or musical copyright thing?...Also, we now learn that DWTS professionals and amateurs will have a performance tour like SYTYCD did. Drew Lachey, Lisa Rena and others from past seasons will be on the program. But, I'm not sure if that'll be as successful as the Fox concert tour (Harry Hamlin? Seriously?)...But, you know who I'd pay to see? Max's Rising Stars! Did you see their segment last week? Nice to see such well-trained young dancers! Especially, guys! Was it my imagination or were they all of Russian or Eastern European origin? Those cultures appreciate the arts much more than the US does. Something to think about...And, while I'm rambling, former CCDC dancer Leah S, now living in California, dropping in over the weekend for a visit. She's promising to be back to take some classes over the winter break! Gonna hold you to that, sunshine!...And, kudos to former CCDC dancer, Sara M, engaged and set to wed next month! Maluhia out!

10.18.2006: Alissa's Air Mail

"...I saw this article online and thought some of the information might be helpful to CCDC dancers. It is a list of the top 10 most common sports injuries along with prevention and treatment information. Hopefully none of the dancers would have to worry about a concussion in dance class, but the information on Achilles tendonitis and shin splints is helpful!
Alissa :)

10.18.2006: Dancing With The Results
Sometimes I feel like I'm living an episode of Seinfeld. You know the one where Jerry tapes a baseball game...and he gets paranoid that someone will tell him the score before he gets a chance to watch his tape? He picks up the phone and immediately yells, "Don't tell me the score! I'm taping the game!" But, despite his best efforts someone always spills the beans and he learns the results? That's what it's like for me every week after taping DWTS. For example, the news broke near the end of last week that Sara Evans was quitting the show. Ergo, that means she must have survived that week's elimination. Someone else told me "Jerry Springer should've gone!" So, what does that mean? Yup! You guessed it, Springer survives. Not much mystery left when Springer and Willa Ford are left twisting in the red spotlight on the results show...So, now, the big promo by ABC is trying to tease what's going to happen with Sara. No biggie here. She's going to tape a segment that explains her motivation. (And, anybody who follows the news knows that some mean-spirited, sordid details are erupting in that divorce case. She seems like such a sweet, talented lady...I hope she and her kids survive with their spirits intact.) I feel sorry for Tony, her professional partner. He took Sara from a rank beginner and coached her into a passable contestant and, now, he's left dancing solo through no fault of his own. Actually, though, I think it was just a matter of time before Evans was voted off anyway...despite the apparently huge Country and Western fan voting bloc. And, if there's any justice, Jerry Springer will be voted off the ballroom island soon. He's survived on pure likeability for too long, much like George Hamilton in season 2. On the other hand, Emmitt Smith delivering a warning shot across the bow of the front-runners with his strong, superb samba. After last week, Joey looks vulnerable, Mario is solidly ensconced in the lead and Monica has to learn to translate her considerable thespian skills into terpsichorean capabilities. They're all strong, strong contestants with winning, engaging personalities and solid mentorships with their professional partners...But, do you think the voting public "punished" Willa for dallying with her dancer? In that case, it's good that Mario is being discrete about Edyta. Of course, I'm sure that "nothing's" happening!o) But, it seems the hostess seems determined to make a scandal out of that molehill...Maluhia out!

10.16.2006: Dance---Less Hazardous To Your Health!
Courtesy Newswise — Amateur soccer is responsible for a surprisingly high number of fractures and other significant injuries to the mouth, jaw, and face, reports a study in the September issue of The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery.
Increased use of mouthguards and faceguards could help to prevent many soccer-related oral and craniofacial injuries, but efforts are needed to increase the use of this protective equipment, concludes the study by Drs. Sinan and Ummuhan Tozoglu of Ataturk University.
The researchers reviewed all patients with injuries to the mouth, jaw, and face area seen at their oral surgery department over a one-year period. Eleven of the 53 injuries were related to amateur soccer—a rate of over 20 percent.
Dental fractures were the most common type of soccer-related injury, followed closely by fractures of the lower jaw (mandible) and problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ—the joint that moves the jaws). One soccer player had a broken nose. About two-thirds of the injuries occurred when one player ran into another. The rest were caused by impact with equipment or the ground.
Head injuries are common in sports—up to ten percent of all head injuries may be sports-related. Certain sports have been identified as carrying a high risk of severe head injuries, such as football, gymnastics, ice hockey, and wrestling. In contrast, soccer has not generally been regarded as a high-risk sport for head and facial injuries.

10.11.2006: VOD Special Delivery
Okay, with all this stuff about YouTube being sold to Google in the news, I decided to check out the website. Now my favorite timewaster at work is searching for "ballet" video clips at YouTube.Com. Check out the Super Pirouettes and Angel Corella and Paloma Herrera in the pas de deux from Don Q! Sure beats surfing to the Classic Arts Channel hoping for some ballet! Video on demand! Welcome me to the 21st Century finally!

10.9.2006: Media Mentions
Did anyone else see this sophomoric dance movie on MTV this weekend? I was channel-surfing during a break from the depressing beat down the Cyclones took at the hands of the resurgent Big Red Machine Saturday night. (Yes, I have to get a life!) Stumbled across a made-for-MTV movie about a blond ballerina-wanna-be and her hip-hopping black beau-friend. And, stumble was the operative word for this yawner...from cliche' to cliche' written, no doubt, by non-dancers. (Much like ISU crumbling on disputed calls to Cornhusker nation.) Imperious and moody director of ballet program. Injury befalls lead in Giselle giving our plucky ingenue her shining moment in the spotlight. Can't tell you all because I tuned out as quickly as the Cyclone defense gives up touchdowns. But, all that could've been forgiven if the dancing itself had been watchable. The black female lead could pop and lock with attitude. But, the dance-off with our blonde ballerina in the night club was anti-climactic. The ballet rehearsal was sub-par. In real life, it must have been very difficult to cast a good actress who could dance en pointe and, then, do a passable pop-lock routine. But, I refuse to believe there aren't any out there. In one scene, our blonde bombshell tossed her cookies during a face-to-face with the autocratic ballet mistress. I felt the same way watching...Meanwhile, elsewhere in the vast wasteland, say goodbye to Vivica Fox on DWTS. I think Sara Evans was lucky not to be the one to go, but, the singer's fans must've rescued her for another week. And, I don't think Monique belonged in the bottom two. Her performance was superior technically and dramatically. Now, you can argue Jerry Springer still dances at a mediocre level...but, his waltz performance dedicated to his daughter was an emotional tour de force and he deserves to survive just on that basis. Joey and Mario look like the front-runners to me. And, Monique deserves to be in that group. But, then again, the wild card is who the heck is doing that voting out there?

10.9.2006: Half Teen Brains Tied Behind Their Backs
Courtesy Newswise — The teen years are a time of dramatic changes in the body. Advances in imaging technology now establish that adolescence is a time of dramatic change in the brain as well. Jay Giedd, MD, introduced new research on the brain development of teenagers today during an educational session held at the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) National Conference and Exhibition. Giedd explained that one of the last areas of the brain to fully mature in adolescence is the prefrontal cortex (PFC). The PFC is responsible for such skills as impulse control, planning and decision-making, which may explain why teens are more likely to engage in risky behavior. Adult response to stimuli tends to be more intellectual, while teens’ is often more “from the gut.” This suggests that while the changeability of the adolescent brain is well suited to the meet the demands of teen life, guidance from adults is essential as this part of the brain is developing.

10.3.2006: Suggest-Shin
Lexi R just asked me about stretches for "shin splints"...and I showed her Missy's stretch. But, here's another that just arrived in my e-mail from Men's Health.

10.3.2006: Whee-mail!
Excerpt from recent e-mails:
"...Also when you get time you'll have to let me know your thoughts on The Company..."
Well, I looked for my review of The Company, but couldn't find it. So this is just off of a hazy recollection.
I usually like Richard Altman (sp? Name?) films. Gosford Park, for example, was a slice of life. But, there was an actual plot and beginning, middle and end to the murder mystery.
But, no such encumbrances for The Company as I recall. Which is why I wrote it was "off in the ozone", "on its own planet" someplace when I mentioned dance films. I still like the fact that Neve Campbell did her own dancing ...and that's because of her extensive training at the National Ballet School of Canada, one of the world's best, before she became an actress. That doesn't always work: witness Mary Tyler Moore flailing around en pointe in that film with Dudley Moore about the terminally ill child who ends up dancing with the New York City Ballet. I seem to vaguely recall a horribly edited soundtrack of Nutcracker music.
The Company is much better than Save The Last Dance...but, hard to compare to Turning Point or Strictly Ballroom. They're all such different films...with the dance element the only common denominator. The Company is like a reality TV/documentary...except the unrealistic reaction to dancer injuries. Whenever that happened when I was dancing, everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, jumped up and took care of the injured dancer.
For example, back when I was IN a company, there was one time I had a girl in an overhead press and was running around in rehearsal...and didn't notice Frankie A resting on the floor with his back to me. I tripped over him and, apparently, and still managed to save Karina S from injury. But, we were all scared and for a brief moment I thought I had seriously injured my partner. But, everyone, and I mean EVERYONE (even people in other rooms in other rehearsals) immediately rushed in and took care of Karina, me and, even, Frankie. Fortunately, no one was hurt. Needless to say, we cleared the floor whenever we rehearsed that piece again.
Every dancer knows he or she's just one false step or faux pas away from a career-ending injury. That's why when it happens to someone else, we instantly leap into action. (Even when it happens to someone we don't get along with or a rival for a part.) That's reality in the dance world.

10.1.2006: Dancin' in Passin'
Just got an e-mail from someone else who went to see the just-finished Playhouse production of Swing. He says they walked out before the end. And, his date is a dancer/choreographer. She kept punching him in the arm and, at one point, gasped "Oh. My. God." And, NOT because she was so impressed. Quite the opposite, in fact. So, all the favorable reviews in the local rag, internet and weeklies and the standing ovation the night I went aside, I feel a little vindicated...and a little saddened. It's just the latest indication of the tremendous vacuum of knowledge and dance appreciation that's descended on the area since the local professional ballet company folded more than ten years ago. Another friend mentioned she decided against going to see Swing after she read my review. And, that's a sad thing, but, no sense in spending that money and getting insufficient value in return. So, I didn't try talking her into "supporting the arts" like I normally would have. What's the antidote? Perhaps more collaborations like this summer's Dancing for My Mom arranged as a benefit by Washington Ballet's Jason Hartley. That was a mixed bag, but, the cross-pollination and competition between dance schools, students and professionals could possibly produce a long-lasting benefit. Especially if Jason returns to restage the benefit next summer as he's promised. That combined with the Joffrey Ballet statewide tour next year, could make 2007 the "year of dance" in the state. Let's make it happen! ...Another possible trend that could help is the resurgence of Dance on TV! I prefer SYTYCD, but, Dancing With The Stars helps pass the time. And, say a'loha o'e to actor Harry Hamlin, spouse of one of last year's contestants, Lisa Rena. I just feel bad for his professional partner who had to put up with that walking piece of wood, Master P, last season. I think the next to (should) go will be talk-show host Jerry Springer. (Am I the only one who thinks his professional partner, Aussie Kym Johnson, looks like a smaller version of WWE superstar Stacy Kiebler from last year's DWTS? And, does anyone else think that Kristen on MTV's Two-A-Daze looks like CCDC's Brooke M? And, since we're babbling of Brookes, CCDC Alum Brooke M (the other one) dropping into the studio briefly this weekend. She was back in town for the birthday of her niece, taking a few days off from her teaching duties in Florida.) And, just a reminder, be sure to TIVcrO the DWTS results show as well as the performance show. Once again the professional piece turned out to be "Must See TV" for dancers! Maluhia out!

9.29.2006: Words That Dance

"...I didn't dance to get ahead or make money or become famous. I danced because I couldn't live without it. Dance mattered more to me than anything in the world. It was my life. And, as much as I considered it an honor to bear the title 'ballerina', I was excited because it took me a step closer to performing more fulfilling roles..."
---Yvonne Chouteau, as quoted by Lili Cockerille Livingston in American Indian Ballerinas.

"...There are no shortcuts to being good."
---UConn Coach Jim Calhoun

"The greatest barrier to being great is being good."
---Anonymous

9.26.2006: Dancing With the REAL Stars!
So, the first week, we forgot to record the DWTS results show. (But, this year a lot of video's available off ABC.Com. Get your DWTS fix from the dancers, stars and Judge Bruno's blogs!) And, finally, got a chance to watch the second week results show...and, admittedly, a lot of it is filler. (Enrique' Iglesias? Seriously? Only as an excuse for another dance number.) But, some of it is REAL dancing. Not this professionals dancing with celebrity dancer wanna-bees! But, REAL dancers with other trained professionals! That number to Billy Idol's Dancin' With Myself kicked serious derriere! And, sometimes when the actual "stars" are on I have to remind myself to watch them instead of their professional partners. I'm trying to second-guess what the judges comments will be before they deliver them and their scores. (Okay, I'm not doing too well! I'm not a trained ballroom dancer!) But, one thing I noticed is the upper body carriage of the non-dancers. Unless you train to keep those shoulders back (and reshape the muscles) over a long period of time, they ain't gonna stay by themselves...six weeks of lessons or not! The other fact that gets reinforced is that the personalities of the non-dancers really reveal themselves as they perform. That Sara Evans dances really sweetly and smoothly. Emmit Smith dances with utter self-confidence (But, I don't think he'll ever get his wish: to be anointed as "the couple to beat") Mario and Joey dance with their hearts on their sleeves, full-out, brash and bold. Why is this important? A fully-trained dancer adopts a different persona depending on the role. When I did stand-up (Yes, this blog is all about ME!), the other aspiring comics and I worked on developing our "voice". It's the performer's persona projected through the "pipes". You have to become larger than life when you step across those stagelights. The distance between the audience and the performer is far larger than the few feet that seperates us. And, how do you get there? Develop that "voice"? Put on that performer's persona? Same answer to that old saw about "how do you get to Carnegie Hall?" "Practice, my son(/daughter). Practice!"
So, don't pass on the results show!

9.22.2006: Marriage of Modern and Motion Capture
Courtesy Newswise — Ben Munisteri of the New York-based Ben Munisteri Dance Projects is in the midst of creating a potentially groundbreaking modern dance piece. His organic, progressive vision for Terra Nova requires an executive director, a computer animator, and the expertise and equipment at Indiana University's new Ergonomics Laboratory.
"I think audiences are ready for this," Munisteri said of the marriage of modern dance and motion-capture technology, the same technology used to animate many video games and to create movie characters such as Star Wars androids and Gollum in the Lord of the Rings.
Munisteri is spending three weeks this month as an artist in residence with IU's Contemporary Dance Program, which is housed in the Department of Kinesiology. Each afternoon he and his six dancers work on the new creation, which will premiere in April on the West Coast. In the evenings, Munisteri works with IU's modern dance majors, helping them learn his Muse of Fire which the IU Dance Theatre will present in January.
"The students are just so enthusiastic. You couldn't ask for a more dedicated, focused group," Munisteri said. "They're hungry for this."
Elizabeth Shea, coordinator of the IU Contemporary Dance Program, couldn't be more enthusiastic about the melding of art, science and technology -- and the fact that it's happening at the IU School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, where students and faculty with similar interests can get an up-close look at this creative process.
"This is up and coming stuff," Shea said. "Artists and scientists have had these ideas, but we're only now getting the technology to support the interaction. Being able to watch the process, creating a framework for it to happen, is exciting. It's exciting for IU to provide this for a professional modern dance company."
Munisteri is tapping the resources and expertise of three universities: New York University, IU's School of HPER and its new Indiana Ergonomics Laboratory, and the University of California in Santa Cruz. His computer animator -- Peter Birdsall -- comes from NYU. Munisteri has taken the unusual step of enlisting the help of an executive director -- Ted Warburton -- a professor of Dance and Digital New Media at the UCSC.
The Indiana Ergonomics Laboratory provided critical motion-capture technology and expertise. The new laboratory is equipped with a sophisticated 3-D video motion analysis system, which consists of eight high-speed, digital cameras connected to a force plate, which records ground reaction forces, as well as an electromyography (EMG) system that allows analysis of muscle activity during the performance of a motor skill.
For Terra Nova, the eight cameras recorded the performance of the dancers by emitting an infrared light that reflected off of sensors placed on the dancers. The cameras both emitted and collected the light and its reflection, and then the digital data were synthesized using motion-capture software. What will emerge is a 3-D rendering of a moving human form, which can be viewed from a variety of angles -- unlike a dancer on a stage.
"You can just swoop around the dancer -- there's no angle from which you can't look at the dancer," Munisteri said. "We know that when you watch a dance performance you have one perspective, and that's where you're sitting."
While motion-capture technology has been used in modern dance for just a few years, it has been a standard tool for some of Shea's colleagues in the Department of Kinesiology, where it has been used for more than 30 years to analyze athletic technique and motion. Faculty with the Indiana Ergonomics Laboratory use the 3-D video motion-analysis system to conduct research on workplace skills in order to determine the causes of musculoskeletal injuries and accidents. Munisteri, with the help of the computer animator, set designers and others on his team, plans to transform a plain stage into an earthy, dynamic environment, projecting lava, ash, plant life, water, steam and other organic images pulsing and moving with the abstract images of his dancers. While the on-stage dancers will change over time, the projected images will always be of the motion-capture work conducted at IU, with the images appearing wherever and whenever Terra Nova is performed, whether in New York City theatres or abroad.
"This will have untold significance in terms of visibility for Indiana University and the perception by both artists and scholars that Indiana is a place where creative digital arts are both thriving and supported," Shea said.
Terra Nova will premiere on April 13-14 at the UCSC Arts and Lectures Series. After that, it will be performed in New York and elsewhere during the dance company's 2006-2007 season.

9.21.2006: The Return of 'Overheard During CCDC Classes'
"With great power comes great responsibility. Remember, even Peter Parker didn't want to become Spiderman."
"If you turn-out and bring your knee back from the front, your foot will follow. If you replace your pelvic placement from the back, your foot will follow. But, the reverse is NOT necessarily true. So, why do two things when all you have to do is one?"
"You're starting to show some really nice poses in your adagio...but, now, you have to working on connecting them. Make the magic continuous."
"You have to find the lift to come out of that pose. Don't just drop the leg!"
"Pull that heel up into your calf during your turn! Let it trigger more lift throughout your entire body! Second, third and fourth turn should be higher, leg longer, more turned out than the first."
"How do you do 32 perfect fouette's? One perfect turn at a time! You can't do them all at once! Just do one at a time!"
"Have you ever pressed your finger down on a wet watermelon seed? Eventually it spurts out. That's what your brise' should feel like."
"Find the line. Find the length. Feel the love. Love the length and the line!"
"Look at your passe'/retirre'! If your toe is below the knee, that's corps de ballet level. If your toe is at your knee, that's soloist level. Above the knee is principal level. How hard do you want to train today?"
"Aim bottom leg higher than top leg! Pop at the top! It's called GRAND allegro for a reason!"
"NOT the world's smallest, cutest pique's or battu. BIG, BOLD, BRASSY!"
"Vole' means 'to fly'. Try it sometime! Assemble' vole'! Brise' vole'!"

9.18.2006: DWTS.3
Quick-Stepping in just in time for Dance aficionados suffering from SYTYCD withdrawal! The kick-off of season 3 of Dancing With The Stars! Unfortunately, as I mentioned last year, I thought it would be difficult to match the level of the top competitors of Season 2: ex-boy-bander Drew Lachey and The Girl With The Golden Gams, pro-wrestler Stacey Kiebler. And, after watching the first installment on my poor man's TIVcrO, I think I've been proven right. Oh, there are some contestants who had a fast start last week, namely Mario Lopez, Monique Coleman and Joey Lawrence, but, I can't be the only one nostalgic for the best of last year's dancers. Also, keep in mind that this year's "stars" had six weeks to train for the season...so, there's no excuse for a weak showing. One contestant who obviously took advantage of that time is former NFL running back Emmit Smith. Smith is this year's Jerry Rice. The advantage for both former pro-athletes is they're both used to being criticized and taking coaching. Keep an eye on Smith to keep improving...and, especially, those "yards after contact"! And, I can't argue with the first week's results: Tucker Carlson is this year's Kenny Mane (sp?). Carlson has a fabulous sense of humor and took a huge step out of his comfort zone...but, despite 6-weeks training (and sitting down for most of his first---and last!---number!), he just wasn't competitive. He's no Master P. But, even if we don't have better than last season, at least we don't have worse than last season! Check out ABC.Com for a lot of behind-the-scenes videos and dancer and judge's blogs to keep you going between episodes! Maluhia out!

9.18.2006: Dear CCDancedoC
"...I have a question. I am interested in taking pointe. *never taken before* do i have to take the ballet that comes with it? What if we are able to do ballet higher than that level but need the beginning/pre-pointe?"---Aspiring Broadway Star
Dear ABS, I'm assuming you're training at a studio that offers "ballet" classes, but not pointe. That's a big red flag right there. First, it's *good* that unqualified instructors aren't pretending to be able to teach proper pointe technique, because that IS what's going on at many, many studios. But, if your faculty isn't qualified to teach pointe, it's a good bet that it isn't qualified to teach anything but the most basic ballet either. I'd take a look at your teachers' backgrounds. Have they danced professionally en pointe? If they haven't had to rehearse and perform in pointe shoes for 40-hours a week for several seasons, how can they prepare you to do the same safely and properly?
Secondly, pointe shoes are NOT toys nor fashion accessories. You have to be old enough (with sufficient and proper calcification of the bones in your pedal extremities) and strong enough (taking a minimum of three ballet classes a week after training in ballet for a minimum of two years). Some schools won't even put you on pointe until you're 12 (Even though, the old Soviet system reportedly put girls in pointe shoes much earlier...as young as 8. But, these are hand-picked students who are monitored closely). Here at CCDC, every student is individually evaluated (And, may have to take prepointe for up to a year or more) before being accompanied by the head instructor to purchase her first pair of pointe shoes. (Every maker, every style and every shoe fits differently. These are individually hand-made.) Even then, the young dancer may not be allowed to leave the barre with those shoes for a full year or more. If we err, we err on the side of caution and safety.
And, also for reasons of safety, CCDC usually does not allow students to come in and "cherry pick" classes in the preprofessional division. For example, you can't come in from outside the school and just take the pointe classes without express permission of the division director. (Even then, you need to take the ballet class before to get a proper warm-up) And, you can't just pas de valse in and take the pas de deux or ballet repertory classes, just because they're not offered at your own school. Preference goes to current students enrolled in the PreProfessional or Post Secondary Program. If there's room, students from outside the system may be allowed to take those classes at the discretion of the instructor.

9.13.2006: Benefits of Ballet
Courtesy Newswise — Regardless of gender, generation or income group, more and more people are going to the dance floor for a workout versus a gym and an exercise physiologist at New York City’s Hospital for Special Surgery, a leading center for sports medicine, thinks she knows why.
“The best exercise program is one that is safe, balanced, promotes fitness and importantly, one people will do regularly because they enjoy it,” according to Polly de Mille, exercise physiologist at the Women’s Sports Medicine Center at Hospital for Special Surgery.
“The social aspects of dance help to make it very attractive for an increasing number of people versus, say, an elliptical training machine. Scientific studies are now also telling us that many things make dancing an excellent fitness regimen with attractive benefits,” de Mille said.
Of course, balanced, targeted gym workouts can provide excellent fitness benefits as well but for some people, the “fun factor” is missing at the gym.
“Those working out in gyms are often plugged into their iPods or their reading material, following their own regimen. Those dancing, however, are often moving in unison, possibly facing one another or touching, and having a communal experience. Connection and cooperation with others is integral to the experience,” she said.
Dance is also very good for balance and posture, according to Beth Shubin Stein, M.D., an assistant attending orthopaedic surgeon in the Women’s Sports Medicine Center at Hospital for Special Surgery who is trained in sports medicine and shoulder surgery.
“Dance is also a great aerobic workout and in addition tones many different muscle groups,” Dr. Shubin Stein said.
Popular TV programs like ABC-TV’s Dancing with the Stars, which returns for its third season September 12, underscore the romance and passion sometimes involved in dance. De Mille cautions, however, that people need to know their limits and pace themselves before considering some of the acrobatic moves seen on TV.
While dance may not be for everyone (de Mille personally finds regular runs in Central Park to be very calming) and a few precautions need to be kept in mind, she says studies clearly show the health benefits of dance compared to gym workouts are impressive. Specifically:

Dance movements are multi-directional versus the straight forward motion on treadmills, ellipticals, Stairmasters etc. Joint mobility may benefit from the varied movements. One study demonstrated improved range of hip motion and flexibility of the spine on young adults who followed a three-month program of dance training. Dance movements are weight-bearing and varied compared to a stationary bike. That is important for maintaining or improving bone density. Studies of recreational ballet dancers between the ages of 8-14 show higher bone mineral content in their hips and spine than in girls who did not dance.

Dance requires agility and balance as well as various speeds of movement, skills that are generally not a focus of typical gym workouts. Studies of older populations who engage in dance-based exercise programs demonstrate improvement in balance and agility. This may be important in reducing risks of falls in this population.

Dance is mentally stimulating, requiring focus on coordination and learning movement patterns. Most people will read, listen to music, or watch TV to alleviate the boredom associated with most indoor exercise equipment. Dance requires being mentally engaged with physical movement, a constant mind-body connection.
Emotional responses are common in dance and would rarely occur in a gym workout. The music, movement patterns and mental engagement involved in dance often evoke emotions. One study showed that breast cancer survivors who participated in a 12-week dance and movement program not only improved their shoulder range of motion but showed improvements in measures of body image and quality of life.
Dance also can be a substitute for a cardiovascular gym workout. Depending on the type of dance, dance can be an excellent cardiovascular workout when done regularly. It would result in the same health benefits associated with any form of activity that involves sustained effort in the target heart rate zone such as improved cardiovascular function, lipid metabolism, endurance and body composition.
De Mille advises people considering dance as fitness therapy to keep three key points in mind:

Treat any pain first -- People should see their doctor and perhaps a physical therapist to have their pain issues diagnosed and treated properly. Pain is a warning signal that something can be wrong.

Wear good shoes -- Dance shoes often don’t have the kind of cushioning and support that other exercise shoes offer. Style should not completely replace sensibility. Dancers should be careful about the footwear they select.

Don’t get swept away — People can challenge themselves more than they should. As with any activity, pacing yourself, listening to your body and knowing your limits is important.
“From a mind-body perspective, anything you do successfully on the physical end will positively affect your mental and emotional states. Dancers have excellent posture and just standing a little straighter can have a surprising transfer of power to your next board meeting or challenging conversation,” commented Jenny Susser, Ph.D., a sports psychologist at the Women’s Sports Medicine Center at HSS.

9.12.2006: Whee! Get E-mail!
Excerpts from message sent by guest Modern instructor Kathleen Hurley:
"...Please check out our new site. It's still new and under construction, but please check it out and become a "friend" of Hurley & Dancers on myspace! ...ALSO, click on the "VIDEO" choice to see clips from our last year's fall concert!..."

Another message in an e-bottle from little, long-lost Leah S!
"...so i've been taking class at studio number one in santa monica. i really like it! it's a lot like what we did at home. The teachers there are really focused on technique just like you are. I'm taking class there on Monday-Thursday and on Saturdays. if you want to see the website its www.danceno1.com.
anyways, everything else here is reallly good. i started school on monday and it was sooo different! the school is made of a bunch of different buildings for all the different classes. I GOT SO LOST! but by friday i got everything pretty down and i made a lot of new friends. i even spent the night at a friends house last night! so things are getting better out here.
KEEP ME POSTED ON THINGS AT HOME!
=]
and i look forward to hearing back from you.
LEAH
:)

Feedback after weekend auditions:
"...Just wanted to send you a quick note to let you know how beautifully your girls danced (this weekend). Their form was excellent and we decided we feel sorry for the girls that don't have any form. Sean did especially well, he seems to have gained a tremendous amount of strength.
Thanks for all the late nights, the hard work and loving these kids..."

9.10.2006: Don't Mean A Thing...
George Balanchine is reported to have said if the audience didn't like his choreography, they could always just close their eyes and listen to the music. Unfortunately, that remark resurfaced as I forced myself to keep watching some of the dancing in the latest Des Moines Playhouse production this weekend. Their Swing misses the mark for the most part. There is no plot, it's a musical dance revue. But, of the three elements that make up Swing: singing, music and dancing, it's the dancers and choreographers that fail to deliver.
I know it's community theater made up of volunteers. But, the program itself states:

"...you will see people who dance professionally, who teach dance for a living, or practice their craft as a hobby. You will see some dancers who are acknowledged as the best in their field in the state or region..."
...if that's the case, if these are "the best" in this "state or region" than this must be the "Death Valley of dance". The ballet pas de deux was painful to watch. (Note to dancers: just because it goes around, doesn't make it a clean fouette' turn!) The Jazz dance solo was awkward. The "sexy dance" with the bass player was embarrassing. The costume not-flattering. The tap dancer was energetic, but, the sounds not clean, lacking crispness. The technique was beginning-intermediate.
I know at least one of the cast and I was disappointed. Looking good on a nightclub dance floor doesn't necessarily mean you'll automatically look good on stage. Just because you teach beginners doesn't mean you should be in a show. The choreography also left a lot to be desired. Social Dance doesn't automatically translate well to the stage. But, maybe as a former professional dancer and current choreographer/teacher my standards are too high. Saturday night's nearly full-house gave the show a standing ovation.
On the plus side, the musicians and singers were often very good. Timothy Tate and Elisia Pride stand out, especially Pride's Stompin' at the Savoy. And, when I danced in Dick Feeney's Lullabye of Swing in a Waikiki showroom, I gained a lot of respect for good brass players. They often told us dancers that what they did every night was "man against steel". So, kudos to trumpeter Audrey Husted and the rest of the 42nd Street Swing Band under the able baton of Brenton Brown. That brass section was a triumph of men over metal.
Which leads me back to my main question: if the singers can be so good and the musicians can be so good, why can't the dancers hold up their end of the bargain? I'm sure there are more and better-trained dancers out there in the community. Why they're not showing up and auditioning for local productions, I can't say. But, they do say "it don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing". To which I have to add: "Swing don't have a chance, if you can't make it dance!"

9.5.2006: Taking a Look at Take the Lead
Antonio Banderas is aging well and can still fill out a tuxedo as well as he did when he first appeared in The Mambo Kings back when he was a relative unknown in the US. Unfortunately, while his back and, more importantly, his heart are in the right place in Take The Lead, his shoulders and his supporting cast fail to follow his lead in the New Line Home Entertainment DVD. It's the Hollywood version of the vision of ballroom champion Pierre Dulaine. He's the ballroom dancer who began teaching mambo, tango, salsa and swing steps to inner-city New York City students. As you might expect, everyone thought he was crazy: the kids, the teachers, the principals, the PTA. But, his "dance is life" philosophy and old-world etiquette and charm eventually win everyone over. And, that was the real McCoy (or I should say the real Dulaine) emceeing in the documentary Mad, Hot Ballroom earlier this year and the "climactic" competition to TTL. And, much as I wanted Take The Lead to succeed, it suffers in comparison to MHB. In fact, the most interesting segments of the DVD are the extras: the Dungeon Kids documentary with the young dancers, the real life story of Dulaine, the multi-angled tango dance sequence with a real champion dancer partnered by the serviceable Banderas. (At least he comes from a culture that appreciates men dancing. Latin men can bring a lot of sophisticated machismo and bull-fighter swagger to the ball-room floor. He's no stiff, but, Banderas is also no Dulaine on the dance floor.) Even dancers may find Take The Lead a little too much of a Hollywood-ized fairy tale to swallow. I know it's based on a real story, but, the acting (especially of the young extras, including the star of Step Up) seems straight out of Beverly Hills High School...and, not 'da inner city Bronx. Rent TTL if you're a dancer, but, don't forget to watch the extras for the real story behind the story. Maluhia out!

8.29.2006: Gone, But, Not Forgotten
Just got an e-mail from former CCDC student Leah S now relocated to the Golden State. She says she starts classes this week at a dance studio similar to Capital City Dance Center, but, that teaches the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus. Minimum four classes a week required at her level. Their annual recital features excerpts from classical ballets like Coppelia and Giselle. And, many of their students spend the summer training in New York City. When Leah visited her new dance school, she says she spotted a sign on a studio door saying "No Bun. Enter at your own risk" and immediately thought of Missy!
She promises to write again. But, if you want Leah's e-mail address, drop us a note on the CCDC "Contact" page. Remember, "gone, but, not forgotten" works both ways!

8.28.2006: Fall Classes Resume Today!
...and here's my horoscope for the first day of fall classes at CCDC:
"...You should be able to sense something new starting today -- the efforts you have made over the past several months are finally starting to create exciting changes. Get ready for more responsibilities and a greater sense of security in your life...."
...hmmm. Still waiting for that "greater sense of security" to kick in!
8.25.2006: Pointes of Interest
Photos of Jason Hartley's Ballet Master Classes at Capital City Dance Center posted at Des Moines Register Website.

8.23.2006: Wise News from Newswise
Excerpts from recent articles:

Courtesy Newswise — Based on a review of studies on exercise and its effect on brain functioning in human and animal populations, researchers find that physical exercise may slow aging’s effects and help people maintain cognitive abilities well into older age. Animals seem to benefit from exercise too and perform spatial tasks better when they are active. Furthermore, fitness training – an increased level of exercise – may improve some mental processes even more than moderate activity, say the authors of the review.
Findings from the review will be presented at the 114th Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association...
...Adult Dance Classes starting next week at Capital City Dance Center!
Courtesy Newswise — Twenty million to 30 million 6- to 18-year-olds participate in youth sports programs, but around 80 percent opt out by the age of 12. Coaching and the "fun factor" contribute to this attrition rate, say Indiana University coaching experts. Kids join such programs largely to have fun -- and they drop out when it's no longer fun. Pressure and competition need to take a backseat to the development of fundamental skills and enjoyment.
"In this country, we often use a 'warm body approach' in youth sport coaching," said David Gallahue, dean of IU Bloomington's School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation and co-author of Understanding Motor Development: Infants, Children, Adolescents, Adults.
In other words schools and recreation programs in the U.S. frequently resort to taking what they can get, often turning to well intentioned but ill prepared parents with little or no coaching experience to work with young athletes. Countries such as Canada, Australia and Great Britain require youth coaches to have certain levels of certification. If no certified coaches are available, no teams are created...

All CCDC Dance Faculty are fully trained, most with professional performing experience and/or fully-certified.

8.22.2006: Recent Reviews
A couple of performances to mention in passing: First, we caught a show in Branson, MO on a recent trip out of town. It was the first time I'd been to the little Vegas of the midwest. And, it was a real eye opener. After driving through miles and miles of Missouri hills and groves, you come upon a little Reno sprouting up in the middle of nowhere. There's no gambling, though. Just shows and shopping. Imagine! Las Vegas without the "lost wages"! People come to be entertained and we were no exception. I wanted to see some good dancing, but, the poor man's Riverdance, Beijing Acrobats and Cirque de Soleil shows were dark the day we went. We saw the Broadway Revue (FREE parking!) and it was better than I expected even though all the music was recorded. (At least, we never saw any musicians).
The tap number from 42nd Street started it off and it was the weakest number. Because the tap sounds were also prerecorded and the dancers weren't actually "hoofing it". (What do you call "tap lip-synching"? Tap Synching?) Either way it was a disappointing beginning, but, the show improved from there. The dancers were good for the most part. There were excerpts from all the big and not-so-big Broadway hits: Phantom of the Opera, Chorus Line, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Cats, Mama Mia etcetera. I really enjoyed the Hey, Big Spender number. There was one girl and two guys who really caught my eye. And, that caused me to ask myself again, what is it that seperates one dancer out of a chorus line? It was attack and technique and personality that pops! An irresistible combination! That's what I want to train my students to show!
There were two decent singers and an Osmond brother featured as well. And, Merrill Osmond is quite the performer. He doesn't have the best vocal chops, but, he can sell a song with the best of them. He's comfortable and relaxed on stage. For such a short guy, Merrill projects larger-than-life!
And, speaking of personality, kudos to Benji for winning the title "America's Favorite Dancer" in the finale of the second season of SYTYCD last week. Travis was the better technician, but, Benji was no slouch. And, he just seemed more genuine and looked like he was having the time of his life! He's like the quintessential All-American boy! A Tom or Colin Hanks that can dance! I really enjoyed when he and his cousin Heidi were able to show off their ballroom technique. Their Salsa and Mambo sizzled!
Finally, one last word about Jason Hartley's brilliant performances at his benefit concert this past weekend. (And, by the way, he's talking about doing another benefit next summer!) He's got technique and personality plus as well! How do you teach or coach that kind of confidence? Well, a lot of it is life-experience. But, if you're a young student and aspiring performer, make it a point to accept challenges, put yourself out there, get out of your comfort zone on a regular basis. Test yourself a little...then, a lot. Do it often. The more you succeed, the more confidence you'll breed. Demand your best. Take a risk. Jason left his home and family at a young age to attend one of the best, most competitive dance programs in the country. It was sink or swim, small fish in biggest pond. Remember that old adage: That which does not kill us, only makes us stronger. But, you don't have to leave friends and family to hold yourself to the highest standards. And, when I say 'take a risk', of course, don't do anything stupid, illegal or immoral. Maluhia out!

8.21.2006: Scenes From A Weekend
It'd been years since I'd seen Washington Ballet Principal Dancer Jason Hartley. The last time was when I gave him class at CCDC Guest Instructor Lynn Andlauer's old studio. I did what I like to call my "program" class, a set barre and center to an old Lynn Stanford cassette. Afterwards, he looked at me and said "...that was pretty grueling. Not much fun. And, it was probably real good for me!"...Jason took class from me again on Saturday morning along with a studio full of star-struck CCDC dancers. Afterwards, he said pretty much the same thing, "Wow! That was way harder than I thought it was going to be! I thought I gave a lot of balances at barre. You give way more than I do!" But, we both agreed that most teachers don't give enough. And, daily class for most professionals is usually far easier than what students are given. Company class is to warm up and place and get ready for a day of rehearsals and/or performances. Student classes are to train, build strength and learn. Don't confuse one with the other...The last time I saw Jase perform was the School of Ballet Iowa's Chipolino. It was a Konstantin Uralsky ballet based on an old Russian fable about an onion who leads the rest of the vegetables in a revolt against an abusive tyrant. At least that's the best I can recollect of it...Watching him this weekend was a real eye-opener. He left Iowa for North Carolina School of the Arts when he was just about 14 or so. Hartley left a man-child, he came back a "man's man" this weekend. His three solos were alternately majestic, slyly humorous, athletic and irreverent. His stillness and attack and commitment to movement demonstrated why he's at the highest level with a major national company and is working with Mikhail Baryshnikov's White Oak Project during his layoff...Too bad, he's such a "poor starving artist", he couldn't even afford a shirt in his first two solos! And, then, when he finally managed to scrounge a shirt for his last appearance, he couldn't afford any buttons and barely kept it on! Fortunately, he looks like he's chiseled out of marble, so the women in the audience probably weren't complaining!...When I first saw him, he told everyone, "This is the guy who taught me how to do double tours!" I said, "No, no! You could already do double tours when I met you! I just challenged you to do them better." But, then, he told me he remembers the corrections and preparation I showed him way back when...and that he still teaches them the same way. And, so it goes. From my teacher to me, from me to Jason. From Jason to his students. We're all part of that grand tradition of imparting the art and technique of ballet from generation to generation...Real touching moment when Jason presented his mother with flowers at the end of the show to a standing ovation. And, overall, it was a magical evening...Unofficially, I hear a significant amount was raised from the performance and the workshops held at CCDC. It should put a decent dent in Glady Hartley's medical bills...It looked like about 600 showed up for the performance...Along with the dancers at Sunday's concert were three vocalists. They all had different strengths, but, my favorite was Larry Berenguel, Jr. His voice sounded like stale cigarettes and watered down whisky on a Sunday afternoon at the old watering hole...and I mean that as a compliment! Homey as honey, intimate and evocative...Despite some nerves, the Capital City Dance Center students did well on Sunday. Kudos to Sean Laughead, Catherine Wootten, Sarah Zuber, Hannah Cooper and Maggie Hall. They performed excerpts from Giselle and were the only dancers en pointe and performing classical ballet there. Heard a lot of nice comments afterwards from audience members and organizers...There was a brief question-and-answer session after the first dance workshop at CCDC on Friday. Jason was asked what his favorite role was. He said "This." And, he did a forward roll on the floor, popped up and said, "That was my favorite roll!" And, he laughed, proving you can take the boy out of the small town, but, you can't take the boy out of the man!...Seriously, when we repeated the question he said he just finished Mercutio in Romeo and Juliet and he really enjoyed "dying on stage". Then he was asked if he recommended leaving to train at North Carolina School of the Arts. He seemed a little ambivalent, saying you leave a lot of friends and family behind. Finally, I asked him what advice he gives to dancers who say they want to become a professional dancer. He leaned back, crossed his arms and said, "I say do it ONLY if you love it. You're not going to make a lot of money. You're not going to be recognized on the street. Do it only if you love it. I get to do what I love everyday. Otherwise, it's not worth it."...and, it's all true. I never danced at the level Jason is dancing at now, but, I'll finish off by telling a little story about the one time I was recognized on the street. (Yes, this ballet blog is all about me! Unless you submit something! Especially reviews wanted!) I was a principal dancer at a small northern company and had just finished a weekend of performances. I dragged myself out of bed early on a Monday or Tuesday morning and rushed to catch the bus to company class. (Still couldn't afford a car, think "poor starving artist") I was unshaven, bleary-eyed and was stuffing myself with a breakfast bagel while wrestling with my gigantic dance bag. That's when a young, neatly dressed gentleman in a suit, an obvious rising young junior executive type, tapped me on the shoulder and said, "Really enjoyed you in the ballet this weekend. Thank you very much!" I forget what I mumbled around a mouthful of whole-wheat bagel, but, I was a little embarassed at actually being recognized out in public. So, be careful what you wish for!

8.21.2006: Media Mentions
Did you miss the TV news story on Iowa dancer Jason Hartley?
I'm not sure how long it's going to be on the KCCI website, but, you should be able to find it here for at least the next few days. Best on broadband or DSL connection, of course. Just click and drag the video file and press play on the screen above it.

8.16.2006: Message From Melissa
Dear Parents and Students of CCDC:
Can you believe the summer is almost over? I hope your last few months have been filled with fun, rest, family time and dance!
Here at Capital City Dance Center, Fall semester classes begin on August 28th. Have you registered yet? There are many families I have yet to hear from. Now, for those of you that have registered, I've indicated for which classes, monthly tuition and if I have received your registration fee at the bottom of this letter. I hope to be hearing from the rest of you soon!
During the spring recital, I had fall brochures out for each one of you with the classes that were recommended for each student. If they were not picked up, they were sent in the mail the following week. If you have lost your brochure, please let us know or you can get all the information you need by going to our website at "GoCCDC.Com". You are welcome to register on line or pick-up a registration form at the studio. We'll be open 6:00pm-8:00pm, Monday-Thursday. We have completed our summer session, but, we are still having "Stay in Shape" classes for Ballet 4,5+6 during this time.
For those of you interested in auditioning for Nutcracker, there are two I recommend: Iowa State Center in Ames which auditions September 10th and Iowa Dance Theatre (DsM Civic Center) which auditions August 26th and August 27th.
Some good news for next year's recital! I have found a location in Des Moines (Drake University Performing Arts Hall) and I have a contract coming to me in the mail. We will have recital on the dates I had already planned (June 8th and June 9th). Our new location is not a high school and it will not be going under construction, so we should be set this year. Valley High School is still under construction for another year.
Hope to hear from you all soon! If you have any questions, please call 276-1646 or email from our contact page or to "Missy@GoCCDC.Com". (For quickest response, please email if possible.) More information can be found on our website at "GoCCDC.Com".
Sincerely,
Melissa Uyehara
Artistic Director
Capital City Dance Center
PS. Many of you still have recital photos waiting to be picked up at the studio.

8.14.2006: Step Up Steppin' Out!
Okay, I confess. I'm a sucker for a dance movie. Keep that in mind as I review the Triton Films latest offering Step Up. It's hard for me to be objective enough to figure out if a non-dance fan adult would enjoy this film. It has some attractive leads who do their own authentic dancing, but, it telegraphs its few plot developments like a beginning dancer before a big move. But, kids of all ages, dancers and non-dancers, should enjoy this flick...it doesn't require a lot of gray matter.
I'm not going to break down what little plot there is. Suffice to say there's a street-dancin' boy from the wrong side of the tracks who meets a contemporary/ballet girl dancer who needs a big performance...or, she'll be forced (collective gasp!) to go to college! Girl recruits boy after potentially disastrous injury to old partner...for rehersals only, mind you! And, there's a plethora of typical misunderstandings, late arrivals, storming out of rehearsals, long soulful gazes, misses on oh-so-near kisses while dancing during long sunsets...until the fateful day and the fateful "big performance". The only thing missing is the "big audition" scene. Sure, it's cliche'. But, cliche's are founded on fact and every dancer should be able to relate in some fashion.
The best dance scene comes in the club. It's modified line dancing, but, with street interludes. Lotta energy. Looks great. It's authentic. Music rocks. What more could you ask for?
I guess you could ask for a fresh plot and more character development and depth. But, you have to support the dance movies that come out so Hollywood gets the message. And, if there's more dance movies, maybe there'll be something that measures up. Turning Point is still my favorite. Followed closely by Strictly Ballroom. With the other Baryshnikov films somewhere under there. Center Stage is adrift in the middle. Save The Last Dance is somewhere near the bottom. Poor Julia Stiles is no dancer! And, Altman's The Company is wandering somewhere in a seperate universe of its own. But, at least Neve Campbell actually trained as a serious classical dancer when she was younger.
I was hoping by going to see Step Up this weekend, it would help make it number one at the box office. Unfortunately, Will Ferrell's Talladega Nights held onto the top slot. You know what that means. More NASCAR movies speeding your way.

8.6.2006: So You Think You Can Influence The Voting
***SPOILER ALERT*** Read no further if you haven't watched the latest installment of SYTYCD!!***SPOILER ALERT*** Well, I don't have a big problem with the latest cuts in the Fox Television competition. But, I do have a bone to pick with the judges' comments. Just stop the blatant negative campaigning! This isn't the race for Governor! Did it seem patently obvious to anyone else the judges had their marching orders on Wednesday night's show? Whenever you watch or evaluate a performance, most people have negative and positive reactions. But, why did the panel uniformly focus on disparaging Natalie and Ivan and praising the others? Normally, I'm not a conspiracy theorist, but, having worked in the medium, I know ratings and the bottom-line drive every television production. And, the American voting public apparently fell into line and, so, we say goodbye to Tasha and Ivanski.
Also, offa da toppa my head, the biggest compliment for a dancer in the show was Mia Michael's ode to Travis. When she said she looked forward to working with him in the future, in effect, letting him know she would hire him. That was similar to what happened last year...I forget the judge or the contestant. But, that's music to a dancer's ears, "You've gotta job with me. I would hire you to dance for me." That's what it's all about! Finding someone who believes in you that will challenge you to grow as a dancer...and getting paid to do it!
I also always get a kick out of Mia's other comments: telling Benji she was disappointed in his "shortcomings" when she worked with him, but, also, praising his rare "star" quality. Telling Heidi she was so well "grounded" now in her dancing, she was "Mother Earth". Her warning at the end of one show to the dancers saying this is TV, enjoy it while it lasts. The world of a working dancer is a far cry from reality television. That's why I'm so disappointed Ms. Michaels played along with the rest of the judges' cabal, and piled on the criticism of Nat and that "baby-faced killer".
Speaking of, Ivan lasted far longer than I expected or wanted him to...but, even as the president of the "Anti-Baby-Faced Killer" club, I have to admit he had gotten better. I hope he does watch that Step Up movie and get himself some real dance training. Then, he has a chance of becoming a real "Seabiscuit". And, Heidi was not one of my favorites when the competition began, but, she has just worked and worked and worked. I'm calling for her and her cousin, Benji to be the last ones standing. And, here's hoping we get to see them perform their strength together, west coast swing. Wouldn't that just BURN the house down?
And, how about being classy in defeat? Natalie shrugging and yelling "Opa!" after Cat Deeley broke the bad news. We can't all win everything, but, that graciousness tells me she's got what it takes to outlast rejection and carve out a career for herself. Sometimes success is about just not giving up.

8.4.2006: State of the Art?
Excerpt from thought provoking article on the state of ballet:

"...Beauty in ballet should be something unique, luminous, even mysterious: dancing that embodies a physical and spiritual ideal, a profound, expressive act rather than just a refined technical feat. But prettiness is relatively easy, a matter of symmetry, smoothness, good taste and a sense of dancing as a form of decoration — of a score, a story, a metaphorical image. And it can be cloying as beauty never is..."
Read the entire article from the Los Angeles Times.

8.3.2006: More Feedback On SYTYCD
Apparently, I'm not the only one "time-shifting" SYTYCD:
"...I was stunned Allison was voted off. I really thought Natalie would go, even though she's my favorite. Allison is the most versatile dancer -although Benji has nailed everything he's tried too..."
...I'm still in mourning for the elimination of Allison. I may have to actually rent High School Musical to get my Allie "fix".

8.1.2006: Teens R Nutz
Courtesy Newswise — A new study from Brigham Young University tries to understand what teens think about the appropriateness of their parents’ reactions to their behaviors. The upshot: whether parents are perceived negatively by their adolescents or not depends on the situation.
The research, published in the August issue of Social Development, found that parents’ actions – yelling, talking it out, or punishing – are not that important to teens. The clincher is teens’ perception of how well that reaction fits the situation. And the study found that teens, not surprisingly, can have a very different take on a situation than parents.
“If children feel they are being treated inappropriately, the negative emotion accompanying the interaction may cloud the children’s ability to understand and accept what the parents are actually trying to get across,” said Laura Padilla-Walker, senior author and assistant professor of marriage, family and human development at BYU.
Walker and her coauthor, Gustavo Carlo of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, surveyed 122 teenagers, asking them to tell how their parents would react to some hypothetical situations and to rate the appropriateness of the reactions. The researchers then ran statistical tests to validate the trends they saw in the data.
The results show that parents and teens are generally on the same page when it comes to problems in moral contexts – issues like lying or stealing that are violations of generally accepted societal rules. Teens expected their parents to be more upset with their moral violations. Adolescents reported that parents were more likely to yell at the teens’ moral infringements, and teens also reported feeling guilty more often in these situations.
“Parents and adolescents rarely disagree about issues in the moral domain,” Walker said. “Both know that lying and cheating are wrong.”
The divide starts to surface, however, when dealing with violations of social conventions, issues like table manners or coming home by curfew. According to the study, teens felt that a parent yelling over an issue like breaking curfew was not the right reaction or response. Adolescents felt that parents tended to overreact in such non-moral settings.
“For example, there are clear societal guidelines regarding honesty, so adolescents may not perceive as great an injustice in being reprimanded for lying as they would for breaking curfew, which is an arbitrary sanction that may vary greatly from one family to another,” the researchers wrote.
This generation gap also extended to parental reaction to the positive things that teens do. Teens thought it was okay that parents didn’t praise them for making correct moral choices, because the adolescents believe such behavior is obligatory. But teens felt that parents could do more to recognize and praise their positive activities outside the moral realm, such as cleaning their rooms. The study found that parents acknowledging positive behavior that teens view as optional, or not an issue of right or wrong, leads to teens’ perception that their parents’ responses are appropriate. This positive reinforcement can lead to future positive behavior.
“Adolescents find it relatively more unacceptable when parents fail to notice or respond to the times when they believe they’ve gone above and beyond their duty,” Walker said. “A parent's ignoring such actions was related to heightened negative emotions from adolescents, as well as perceptions of negative intent on the part of the parent.”
In attempting to explain the difference in teens’ views on the way they are treated in moral situations versus non-moral situations, Walker suggests that adolescents have clearer expectations from their parents regarding possible consequences in moral or obligatory situations. Therefore they are not as easily surprised or angered by parental reactions in response to moral misdeeds.
As for advice to parents, Walker suggests parents make sure they acknowledge what their teens do well, especially if they are going above and beyond. According to Walker, a common problem arises when parents feel they do acknowledge their children, but adolescents feel their actions go unnoticed.
Walker is now studying data that more deeply examine the different types of parent-child interaction and adolescents’ perceptions within those areas.

7.28.2006: So You Think You Can Out Guess the American Public
SPOILER ALERT---In case you haven't watched the latest installment of SYTYCD and you don't want to know the results, read no further---SPOILER ALERT...I still can't believe it! What is America thinking? WHO is doing all that voting out there? Allison has been cast off the island? She is such a strong, strong performer with a genuine, infectious love for dancing. Fabulous technique, attack and a smile to die for. She grew into one of my favorite females on the show this season. Her smooth hip-hop number with that baby-faced killer Ivan was one of the highlights of the performance show. I'd said she'd survived the "kiss of death" having been anointed a favorite early in the season, but, I guess I spoke too soon.
And, her final solo performance broke my heart. It seemed she was saying her goodbyes to Travis, an intimate and private farewell on all too public stage. You could tell by the tear stained faces of Natalie and Ivan that Allison was well-liked by the other competitors.
And, just what is that baby-faced killer still doing on the show? And, worse, getting the second most-male votes? Ivan's been getting a little better, but, he's still a one-trick pony who should be trotting off into the sunset soon. And, I've referred to Ryan as "charismatically challenged" before. As much as Allison shared herself with the audience from the stage, Ryan distanced himself from us with his dancing. Prodigious technique, line and "hops" for days, but, emotionally self contained and reserved. I still admire his technical ability, but, because he danced more for himself instead of for the audience, I'm not surprised to see him go.
(Did anybody else notice last year's SYTYCD winner Nick Lazarini screaming for Travis during one cutaway?)
On another note, I complained earlier that we wouldn't get the chance to see cousins Heidi and Benji do what they do best and do it together: ballroom. But, fortunately, a mid-season change in the competition format provided the opportunity. And, they seized it and made the most of it! Their quick mambo by choreographer Ryan de Silva lived up to my hope and hype. I liked their broadway, but, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that we'll get a chance to see them share their best at ballroom a few more times this season.
If not, I guess we'll have to wait until the top ten SYTYCD Concert tour. And, speaking of, apparently details of that tour finally being announced. Excuse me while I figure out the closest stop. Maluhia out!

7.27.2006: Curiouser and Curiouser
So, this is my horoscope today:

"...Like a famous ballet dancer, you're full of breathtaking grace and beauty today. Your physical and emotional moves will amaze and entertain everyone -- who knew you could move so well in such precarious situations? You have a unique talent for balancing on the thinnest edge today, so take advantage of it and start pushing the envelope on a particular project. Balance is never terribly easy, but right now you can handle it with ease..."
...Does this mean I'm not "...like a famous ballet dancer" ordinarily? Or does it mean I'll have an especially good class today? Or...just that I should quit focusing on what others say my day will be like?

7.26.2006: Whee-mail!
This e-mail from CCDC Modern/Yoga/Pilates/Jazz Instructor Alissa H proves we're not the only ones who think dance makes a "hot ticket":
"...I was just checking out the Hancher Auditorium website and they have a lot of good dance performances scheduled. Here is what I found:

Martha Graham Dance Company
Tuesday, October 3rd 7:30 p.m.

Batsheva Dance Company
Thursday, October 19th 7:30 p.m.

University of Iowa Dance Gala
Friday and Saturday, November 3rd and 4th

Miami City Ballet, Don Quixote
Friday, November 10th 7:30 p.m.

Classic Savion
Wednesday, November 15th 7:30 p.m.
All performances are at Hancher Auditorium in Iowa City. Tickets are available through the Hancher website..."

7.25.2006: Media Mentions
Just a thought for the handful of dancers NOT taking classes this summer: Fitness Expert Rocco writes in a recent column:

"...Muscles will begin to atrophy (melt away) after 96 hours of no physical activity..."

7.24.2006: Whee! Get E-mail!
Even more on SYTYCD:

"...I expected Martha to be voted off -and was very relieved that Natalie stayed because she is one of my favorites. In fact the remaining four girls are all so wonderful.
Like you I expected Ryan to get voted off. Apparently that idiot Ivan is sucking off enough female votes that left Dimitry vulnerable..."
...But, what do you really think about Ivan?

7.21.2006: So You Think You Can Discuss The TV Show
Comments from other SYTYCD fans. (Just a note: because I TIVcrO the show, warn me if you're going to reveal any results!) Like this InnerDanzer did:
"...I know you haven't watched the show yet but just to whet your appetite-here's a few thoughts:
Mia Micheals choreography was amazing. She choreographs two dances and they are both unbelievable. I think she's kind of weird -but last night she was the ****.
Also Shane Sparks is one of M and I's favorites. And, Tyce Diorio provided a really nice jazz routine for last night's show. He's pretty cool.
Sadly after last week I have to say my favorite judge, Dan Karaty is not the world's greatest choreographer. I thought both of his routines lacked anything innovative to help the dancers shine. So I don't think it was a coincidence that both the couples he choreographed were in the bottom two.
Anyhoo -just my thoughts - wanted to get them down before I forget..."
Well, I've already written about my admiration for MM. And, I admire SS's stuff, but, it's a hard, difficult genre...especially for contestants who train in more lifted, lengthened and less-funky styles. It's very, very complicated, dense and complex steps. Ever since Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation CD and videos exploded on the scene, a new vital and vigorous, but, demanding dance form has dominated the contemporary commercial dance scene. This ain't your Liza Minelli Jazz dance anymore! I have a lot of admiration for dancers who work in this style.
I like DK's judging comments and his choreography. Brian Friedman is also someone whose stuff is always interesting. You have to keep in mind they tailor their choreography to make their dancers look as good as possible. Sometimes (Like when BF worked with Dmitry and Ashlee) they deliberately work to hide deficient technique and weak points. That could affect the final product.
Here's another comment:

"...So I'm sitting here watching SYTYCD and I just have one question--since when is an aerial cartwheel a dance move? And why does every soloist think they have to throw one in? If this is what it takes to be a dancer, I'm in trouble--I broke my gymnastics coach's nose when I was 10!
I don't have an opinion on who should win yet, but I can already tell that none of these dancers are choreographers. All of the solos are terrible! Many of them look great in the partnering work, and a lot of them are talented, but on a show like this you can really tell that the choreographer has a lot to do with that--even the best dancer looks rotten doing a cheesy dance or just prancing around to Gwen Stefani like what's-her-name (who's surely going home this week!)..."
Good call. Martha is indeed one of the victims of the vote this week. But, as we learned, she just turned 19! And, with the publicity of the show and a coming year-long series of performances, her future is solid!
As for the aerials, a lot of competition dancers have long incorporated gymnastics into their routines. I think it's just another sign of the need for aspiring professionals to cross-train and become more and more versatile. The more you can do, the more a choreographer can do with you. For example, I made the "mistake" of showing off my press to handstand from splits (my one gymnastic C Level move left since I landed on my head during my last back handspring) during two separate rehearsals. And, the move's been incorporated into two pieces by two different choreographers. And, I showed a front handspring during rehearsals for one of my first Trepaks. That move was eventually taken out. I don't think any of the other guys could do it. (Yes, most of this ballet blog is all about me! And, my experiences! It's the nature of blogs.) But, the more you can do...the more you can separate yourself from other dancers.

7.21.2006: So You Think You Can...OMG! WHAT JUST HAPPENED?
SPOILER ALERT!!!---Read no further if you haven't watched the latest episode of SYTYCD---SPOILER ALERT!!!---Oh. My. God! WHAT just happened? I just shut off my poor man's TIVcrO and I'm still scraping my jaw off the floor! Dmitry has been eliminated? Along with my early-season favorite, Martha? Did the sun just rise in the west this morning?
Well, okay...I could see Martha's ouster coming. She blew me away in the opening rounds, but, as the weeks went on, other competitors kept improving and stepping up their game. She didn't keep up and couldn't play to the TV-watching public enough to get their votes. And, all the women are so, SO much stronger this season! There's not a weak dancer technically or charismatically in the remaining final four: Heidi, Allison, Natalie and Donyelle. That's a warning for Ryan, the charismatically-challenged male version of Martha. Technique and extension aren't enough. They're just tools to be used for artistic expression. Having the most colors or the finest paintbrushes doesn't guarantee a La Gioconda painting everytime. In that vein, watch out for Allison! She survived the "kiss of death" by being anointed as a contender by the judges early. Usually, the American public then starts voting for their other favorites. Allison has both the experts and the general public in her corner. But...as I said, this is a strong, strong crop of dancers this season. And, I wouldn't be surprised to see any of the girls emerge as the winner. Having said that, I'd like to see Allison and Heidi battling it out at the end.
As for the guys, I was already saying goodbye to Ryan when host Cat Deeley announced Dmitry would be going! Say what you will about D---and, believe me I've said them!---He's got charisma and presence oozing out of those Russian pores. He was always at a disadvantage during solos because he's trained to dance ballroom with partners...and you could always sense the absence of an other while he was fighting for survival. (But, as Nigel pointed out, crowd favorite Benji has enough firepower in his dance arsenal to raise the barre for every other ballroom or swing dancers' solo.) And, I think it's only a matter of time before Ryan and Ivan say "Aloha" to the audience. (And, I love Ryan's technique!) But, I'll be very shocked if Benji and Travis aren't squaring off to go one-on-one near the end. Of course, I've been shocked before!
Choreographer Mia Michaels did an absolutely amazing job with Travis and Heidi's piece. That choreography transcended the medium of televison, the tedium of TV...heck, it transcended time and space! It lives somewhere where hearts, emotions, feelings and art live! Watching the little snippets of Mia coaching Heidi not to "DANCE" but, to be a human being doing human movements was amazing and instructive. (Teachers note to students: You can only do that well if you have considerable technique to begin with! Don't make the mistake of thinking there wasn't constant technical demand in that piece!) I'd love to be a fly on the wall in one of her classes or rehearsals!
And, very pleased to hear Nigel say they're taking up one of my suggestions from last season: Arranging a national tour for the top ten dancers. I think they should try to bring in some of the crowd favorites from season one. The original Ryan's crew, for example. Either way, that should be a hot, HOT ticket in any town!

7.18.2006: Dance Not Just For Kids Anymore
Courtesy Newswise — Couch potatoes who start exercising in later life can still significantly cut their chances of developing coronary artery disease, suggests a small study published ahead of print in Heart.
The authors base their findings on 312 adults between the ages of 40 and 68 who had confirmed coronary artery disease and 479 volunteers matched for age and sex.
Each participant was interviewed about their level of physical activity in early adulthood, classified as the period between 20 and 39, and in late adulthood, defined as the period after the age of 40.
Unsurprisingly, known risk factors for coronary heart disease, including smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure tended to be more common among those with confirmed disease.
Around half of those with heart disease and seven out of 10 of the healthy volunteers said that they had been moderately or very physically active in younger and older adulthood.
But around one in 10 of those with confirmed disease and around one in 20 of the healthy volunteers confessed to having enjoyed a lifetime of physical inactivity.
Those who had been active all their lives had the lowest risks. They were around 60 per cent less likely to be diagnosed with coronary heart disease.
But those who became very physically active after the age of 40 were around 55 per cent less likely to be diagnosed with heart disease than those who had embraced inactivity all their lives.
The authors conclude that while optimal health is likely to be enjoyed by those who exercise all their lives, it is not too late to start. Regular exercise, even if started in older life, still confers many benefits and substantially cuts the risk of heart disease.
But an accompanying editorial points out that only about a third of men and a fifth of women in England manage the recommended 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week.
And these proportions fall to just 17 per cent and 12 per cent, respectively among those aged 65 and above, it says.
Click here to view the paper in full. Click here to view the editorial in full.
(Editor's Note: Start Adult Pilates/Yoga Exercise classes at CCDC anytime!)

7.18.2006: Parent Resource
Courtesy Newswise — It’s summertime, and what are millions of pre-teen girls across America doing? Chances are they’re spending a significant chunk of their time surfing the Internet, watching MTV, thumbing through teen and celebrity magazines and listening to CDs by their newest favorite recording stars.
While they may view it as “entertainment,” the flood of imagery delivered via online media, television, magazines and popular music is also subtly shaping young girls’ social and emotional development, along with their perceptions of body image and health, according to media literacy researchers at Temple University.
Now, a new interactive Web site targeting preteen and early teenage girls aims to give them the tools to think critically about the media messages that bombard them, particularly those that influence their attitudes about beauty, nutrition, celebrity culture and their own identity.
My Pop Studio engages girls in the mass media and entertainment industry decision-making process, empowering them to create their own animated pop star in the site’s Music Studio, where they make the decisions about what their pop star wears (sneakers? high heels? midriff-baring top?); her hair style, body shape and makeup; and the lyrics, instrumentation and beat of the song she sings. (Will it be: “My goal is in sight and I ain’t gonna fumble...” or “Walkin’ on the edge, that’s where I wanna be...”?)
In addition to fashioning their own recording sensation, they can edit a TV program and compose a scene in the site’s TV Studio, design a multi-page magazine spread in the Magazine Studio and test their multi-tasking abilities in the Digital Studio.
Created by a team of researchers at the Media Education Lab of Temple University’s School of Communications and Theater, My Pop Studio is believed to be the first Web site of its kind to use online games to teach media literacy.
My Pop Studio aims to re-frame popular culture in ways that can be powerful for girls,” said Renee Hobbs, director of the Media Education Lab and associate professor of communication at Temple.
“Weaving an educational component into the pop entertainment culture they consume gives them the opportunity to feel the power of making creative choices and to recognize that those choices have consequences.
“On a deeper level, they will be equipped with the tools of media literacy and an understanding that ‘stuff doesn’t just appear on the TV screen.’ There has been conscious, calculated construction of the media messages that are constantly delivered to them.”
Hobbs describes My Pop Studio as a “creative play experience in which girls can create, edit, share, analyze and comment upon the media in their lives — especially those incessant, and often subtly delivered, messages about body image and health that affect girls and young women.”
The site also provides a link to downloadable lesson plans for parents to use in informal, home-based learning and for teachers to introduce in classrooms. The activities and discussion questions aim to promote dialogue and strengthen critical thinking and communication skills.
In creating the site, the team at Temple’s Media Education Lab regularly tapped into focus groups of girls from different parts of the country (New York, Baltimo

CCDC News Archives - 2006

12.21.2006: Whee! Get EMail

12.19.2006: Gift Ideas For Young Dancers

12.12.2006: Crack Seed Reprise

12.9.2006: 'Nut-racker' Weekend

12.8.2006: Let The Nutty Weekend Begin!

12.6.2006: This and That About This and That

12.1.2006: Waltz of the Flower Pedals Next?

12.1.2006: Never Mind Milk! Got Dance?

11.27.2006: Gotta Watch Dance TV

11.20.2006: Echoes from the Celestial Spheres

11.15.2006: Two Stars Remaining

11.8.2006: Fast Dance Time Shifting

11.7.2006: Hamer-O-Gram

11.1.2006: Must See TV

10.18.2006: Alissa's Air Mail

10.18.2006: Dancing With The Results

10.16.2006: Dance---Less Hazardous To Your Health!

10.11.2006: VOD Special Delivery

10.9.2006: Media Mentions

10.9.2006: Half Teen Brains Tied Behind Their Backs

10.3.2006: Suggest-Shin

10.3.2006: Whee-mail!

10.1.2006: Dancin' in Passin'

9.29.2006: Words That Dance

9.26.2006: Dancing With the REAL Stars!

9.22.2006: Marriage of Modern and Motion Capture

9.21.2006: The Return of 'Overheard During CCDC Classes'

9.18.2006: DWTS.3

9.18.2006: Dear CCDancedoC

9.13.2006: Benefits of Ballet

9.12.2006: Whee! Get E-mail!

9.10.2006: Don't Mean A Thing...

9.5.2006: Taking a Look at Take the Lead

8.29.2006: Gone, But, Not Forgotten

8.28.2006: Fall Classes Resume Today!

8.25.2006: Pointes of Interest

8.23.2006: Wise News from Newswise

8.22.2006: Recent Reviews

8.21.2006: Scenes From A Weekend

8.21.2006: Media Mentions

8.16.2006: Message From Melissa

8.14.2006: Step Up Steppin' Out!

8.6.2006: So You Think You Can Influence The Voting

8.4.2006: State of the Art?

8.3.2006: More Feedback On SYTYCD

8.1.2006: Teens R Nutz

7.28.2006: So You Think You Can Out Guess the American Public

7.27.2006: Curiouser and Curiouser

7.26.2006: Whee-mail!

7.25.2006: Media Mentions

7.24.2006: Whee! Get E-mail!

7.21.2006: So You Think You Can Discuss The TV Show

7.21.2006: So You Think You Can...OMG! WHAT JUST HAPPENED?

7.18.2006: Dance Not Just For Kids Anymore

7.18.2006: Parent Resource