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07.23.2008: Where's my DVD?!?!

Contacted Stover Digital Services, Inc for an update on the pending DVD orders for CCDC's 2008 Spring Showcase, La Bayadere...And More!. They report those orders should start showing up in your mailboxes starting next week. If you want to order more DVDs, change your address, lobby for more facetime for your star dancer or urge a little more alacrity, call them at 800.287.4217. (All calls about DVD orders to the CCDC office will be referred to that number.)

07.23.2008: Audition Action

"...and one ring shall bind them..."

Auditions for J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit will be held at The Playhouse at 6:00 PM on Sunday, Aug. 17. All auditions are open to the public; no one is pre-cast.

The Hobbit has roles for up to 26 men and women, ages 16 and up, and up to 3 boys, ages 12-16. Performances are Oct. 3-19. The Hobbit is directed by Ron Ziegler.

Bilbo Baggins is whisked from his comfortable home to help recover a treasure from the fearsome dragon, Smaug, in this prequel to the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

For up-to-date audition information, visit The Playhouse website.

07.22.2008: Putting The "Me" Back In "Media"!

So, Kherington and Gev are hitting the bricks on SYTYCD. The only consolation from this latest elimination is they both have the top ten tour to look forward to. I, for one, will miss the charismatic couple. But, it just proves one or two mediocre performances can come back to bite the contestants as the competition to be named "America's Favorite Dancer" heats up. (And, Comfort can thank the luck of the draw for getting her strength, hip-hop, for her second performance number. She and Twitch "kilt it" last week. If she didn't have that piece, it would've been cold Comfort...again!) I think we forget sometimes that Kherington is so young because she's so good. Blogosphere reports she missed her Senior Prom because she was in this year's competition. Once she gets a little more experience, she'll be the complete package: personality, technique, looks and charm! And, Gev stepped up before he stepped out. His jive was outstanding for a b-boy street dancer! Reminded me of Season One's Ryan and the time he slicked back his hair to channel his inner ballroom dancer! My predix to be discarded this week: Comfort and, one of my favorites, Kailua's own Mark. His weaknesses were on parade and he won't be able to endure the onslaught of the remaining strong black trio of men. My pick is Will for the finals. And, I think Katee has what it takes to stand toe-2-toe with him. She's got the training, the looks and she dances hard! Her understated Eurasian beauty shines on its own when she lets her dancing speak for itself. Something that the injured Jessica needs to emulate more. (I know you're cute! Don't have to TRY 2 B KEWT!o) And, finally, they've released the tour schedule for the top ten from this year's SYTYCD. This is as close as they come to the Capital City:

• 10/15/08 Wed Kansas City, MO Sprint Center


• 10/17/08 Fri Chicago, IL United Center


• 10/18/08 Sat Green Bay, WI Resch Center


• 10/19/08 Sun St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center


• 10/21/08 Tue Milwaukee, WI Bradley Center

...Road trip NE1? Maluhia out!o)

07.22.2008: U2B?

Just trying an experiment: Click here for a montage of NYCB rehearsal footage of Seranade and Agon.

07.18.2008: Center Stage, The Sequel!

Who's quoting who?

"I think it was Stella Adler, the famous acting teacher, who said, 'To be an accomplished actor, you have to have the hide of a rhino and the soul of a rose.' My hide is definitely getting tougher..."

...catch up on the latest turning point for the star of Center Stage from the Honolulu Advertiser!

07.17.2008: From the Streets of SF!

Just got an e-mail from SFBoy. Apparently, he's really earning his new nickname now...

"...I got (invited) into SFB's year-round program!...I'm really happy to have the opportunity!"

...But, don't cry for thee Waukee, GitUrFaShawn says he'll likely turn it down to return to CCDC for his senior season! But, getting invited to stay for the fall is a really good sign and the penultimate compliment a school and company can extend to a student! Kudos to xSABoy!!!

07.16.2008: Time To Get Moving!

You're going to hear about this all day today, but, the solution seems obvious...

(Courtesy Newswise — New research documents the decline in physical activity among children, with less than a third meeting recommended physical activity guidelines by the time they are 15 years old.

Physical inactivity is associated with an increase in obesity and associated illness and chronic diseases among youth. Expert opinion and studies suggest that children need a minimum of 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) per day, according to background information in the article. How many youth meet this standard is unclear.

Dr. Philip R. Nader collected physical activity data on 1,032 children when they were 9 years old until they were age 15. Physical activity was measured by the children wearing an accelerometer, a monitor worn on a belt that records minute-by-minute movement counts. The children would wear this monitor for one week a year at ages 9,11,12 and 15. The study took place in 10 geographic locations from 2000-2006. Participants included boys (517 [50.1 percent]) and girls (515 [49.9 percent]); 76.6 percent white (n = 791); and 24.5 percent (n = 231) lived in low-income families.

The researchers found that both the average minutes of MVPA and the range of minutes spent in MVPA decreased as children moved into adolescence. At 9 years, children engaged in MVPA approximately 3 hours per day on both weekdays and weekends. By 15 years, adolescents were only engaging in MVPA for 49 minutes per weekday and 35 minutes per weekend day. At 9 and 11 years, almost all children met the guidelines (of 60 minutes of MVPA per day), but by 15 years, only 31 percent and 17 percent met guidelines on weekdays and weekends, respectively. Both weekday and weekend MVPA showed significant decreases in MVPA between 9 and 15 years, with decreases of 38 and 41 minutes per year, respectively.

The estimated age at which girls crossed below the recommended 60 minutes of MVPA per day was approximately 13.1 years for weekday activity compared with boys at 14.7 years, and for weekend activity, girls crossed below the recommended 60 minutes of MVPA at 12.6 years compared with boys at 13.4 years.

“More research is … needed to understand the reasons for such substantial decreases in youth activity. Further study and more precise descriptions of the immediate activity environment, such as whether youth are located in urban, suburban, or rural areas; availability of safe places to be active; and quality of school-based physical education may explain some of the individual and regional differences noted in this and other studies.” “This decrease augurs poorly for levels of physical activity in U.S. adults and potentially for health over the course of a lifetime. Consequently, there is a need for program and policy action as early as possible at the family, community, school, health care, and governmental levels to address the problem of decreasing physical activity with increasing age,” the authors conclude.

07.15.2008: The Return Of The Prodigal

One of the first to go is the first to come back. The 2K2M making her triumphant return to CCDC last night after 5-weeks away at the Joffrey Midwest Summer Intensive. (How time flies! Little embarassed I didn't get her card in the mail yet!o) A lotta screaming and hugging and big commotion to welcome her home before class yesterday. She seems a little taller, a little older, but, not much wiser!o) (I joke! I kid becuz I kare!o) And, she seems none the worse for wear! The 2K's already making plans to meet many of her new summer friends at the Chicago audition this winter and return together to Flint again next year. She says the last week of classes and rehearsals proved why it's called "an intensive". But, she says the big finale' "was a blast!" And, now that she's such a veteran of pas de deux classes this summer, she seemed surprised when she told me I'm apparently "a pretty good partner!" She made the statement after we tried a few supported pirouettes after class. Who knew her doddering old teacher was still "pretty good" at partnering? I guess that long professional and amateur career and experience as a ballet, modern, broadway jazz and acrobatic partner/choreographer/teacher I had comes in handy once in a while!o) Welcome home, 2K2M!!!

07.14.2008: Media Mentions

Well, before Thayne got the ax on SYTYCD this past week, he got "mad props" from choreographer/judge Mia Michaels. (And, don't bet against the black men as the show heads into its final weeks!) She said she was looking forward to working with him on or off the show. As I've mentioned before, nothing is sweeter music to a dancer's ears than having a choreographer say she's going to hire him in the future. I wasn't impressed by Thayne, but, I have to admit he gets the most out of what he brings to the stage. When he smiles, his whole face and body lighten up! And, it looks to me like Jessica's days on the show are numbered. She's relying too much on her considerable physical assets instead of letting her dancing speak for itself. Unlike one of my other favorites, Katee. I don't think Katee even realizes how intoxicating her exotic Eurasian beauty can be. (She looks like the hapa ha'ole girls I was too shy to ask out growing up back in Hawai'i!o) Witness her attack in the Bollywood number and the Viennese Waltz last week. And, Mia paid her a high compliment with a hidden criticism as well: saying Katee "would become" an artist of the highest order. Did anyone else hear that she seemed to be hinting she's not there yet? And, speaking of Mia, her choreography is often "a gift" to the contestants. She challenges the dancers and finds ways to take them to a higher level with her "little gems" of choreography. Who wouldn't vote for a pair that shines in Michaels' piece? As well as Tice Diorio's latest piece. And, Mandy Moore outdid herself with Will and Jessica's first number. Whew! That brought tears to my eyes and an ache to my heart! How often can you say that watching anything on TV not on Lifetime or Hallmark Theater?...I'm still pulling for Mark, but, as I said before, I think the African-American men are going to be tough to beat: Twitch, Josh and Will. Watch out Gev! Chelsie and Kherington are my other picks besides Katee. I like Courtney, but, the competition's getting intense these days...And, the Sin City's Supah Crew is my pick to pick-up where Jabba Wakeez left off last season of ABDC. Not only do they have the best hand sign, they constantly challenge themselves to come up with creative and inventive choreography. The blogosphere says the next episode will be a tribute to Janet Jackson. Keep your eye out for tributes to her infamous "wardrobe malfunction"! Maluhia out!

07.11.2008: Performance Preview

The dance scene at the University apparently not all "dead in the water". Director of a company emailed this tip:

"I wanted to invite you all to a free performance this Saturday at 7:30 p.m in the Pentacrest on the East side of Macbride Hall. PRPC will be performing prior to the free movie, a part of Summer of the Arts Saturday Night Free Movie Series, followed by other area dancers...Our performance will feature a solo choreographed and performed by Nicole Hussain, entitled a flung and numbing attempt, an excerpt of 2007's ...rooted in each moving force, choreographed by Nicole Hussain and performed by Nicole Hussain and Erika Christiansen, and Lisa Kottemann's self-choreographed solo Leanne.

Please come support your local arts!!! Hope to see you all there."

07.11.2008: She Lives!

Spoke with our very own Princess SarAurorah II recently. Sleepy Cutie just left for the Atlanta Ballet Summer Intensive. Apparently, she's doing quite well and seems to be making an impressive first impression. She says the director of the school was watching their class recently. And, afterwards, she called SarAurorah over and asked her for her name, hometown, age and grade. Afterwards, the director smiled and told her "keep in touch"! This is apparently the woman who chooses who gets into their trainee, internship and apprentice positions! So, it sounds like they're considering putting Sonambula on the fast-track to one of those slots. The director didn't talk to anyone else. Keep your fingers crossed!...Sonambula also says she's beat out a lot of fellow students to be cast as one of the four Big Swans in their Swan Lake. And, they're also learning corps work from Act IV of Artistic Director John McFall's version of the classic ballet. In other info, SarAurorah says she's tall enough to have to be partnered by the instructor and one of the company dancers in pas de deux class. She says it's much better than being partnered by some of the newbie boys in the intensive. All in all, sounds like she's one of the hottest things in the town they call "Hot-lanta"!...And, also had a chance to speak with the Prince Consort of the original CCDC Sleeping Beauty recently. He made an interesting offer: says he'd be willing to attend any new CCDC partnering classes to help us out. Okay, any other guys out there we might be able to convince to join us?

07.11.2008: Feedback From The Feedbag!

Got this in our emailbox recently. Kind words about a kind teacher:

"...I feel like Jill (Andrews) is one of those really incredible gems that only come around once in a blue moon..."

...And, no one has compared ME to any jewelry lately!o(sniff)

07.10.2008: Audition Action

Just got this email from CCDC Guest Modern Dance Instructor Kathleen Hurley:

"Hurley & Dancers, a professional modern dance company, is seeking dancers/movers for a “dance experience” to be held Sept. 5/6 as part of the East Village Art Coalition/ArtStop event. ArtStop is an event in which art lovers can hop on a shuttle bus and visit several galleries within two days. Hurley & Dancers is partnering with the East Village Art Coalition (EVAC).

Choreographer Kathleen Hurley is seeking approximately 10-15 dancers/movers for a marathon improvisational piece on the theme of Ritual. Dancers should have some dance or movement experience and be above the age of 16. Mature dancers and seniors are welcome. Dancers will improvise at their own level based on material presented in classwork. Dance performed will be in the style of modern dance.

An audition will be held on Saturday, July 26, 3-5 p.m., at Lind Dance School. Participants should wear dance or workout clothing that shows the lines of the body (not baggy) and be prepared to dance barefoot. Accepted participants will be taught material in a series of Saturday classes to be held Aug. 2-Aug. 30 (5 weeks), 3:15-5-:15 p.m. $5 fee per class. No fee for audition class.

Exceptional participants may be considered for positions as company members in Hurley & Dancers' professional modern dance company.

For more information, contact Kathleen Hurley."

---

...and, that's not all:

"Auditions for the musical Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story will be held at The Playhouse at 6:00 PM on Sunday, July 20. Those auditioning should bring a prepared song which best presents the person's talents and potential. An accompanist will be provided. All auditions are open to the public.

Buddy contains feature roles for 7 men, ages 18-30, and 3 women, ages 18-30. Among the featured roles we are seeking to cast: Male (HiPockets Duncan), non-singing, age 30-60 Male (Norman Petty), non-singing, age 30-40 Female (Vi Petty), non-singing, age 30-40 Male, Latino (Richie Valens), age 19-25 Male (The Big Bopper), age 25-35 Female, Latina (Maria Elena Holly), non-singing, age 19-25 Male, African-American, indeterminate age Female, African-American, indeterminate age. The cast also features a large, multi-ethnic ensemble of men and women, ages 16 and up.

Special auditions for The Crickets, Buddy Holly's band, will be held Noon-3:00 PM, Saturday, July 26, and by appointment. Musicians needed are Bass Player, Drummer, and Guitar Player, ages 20-30. Musicians must act and attend rehearsals in addition to band rehearsals. These performers supply the accompaniment for most of the show, and are compensated as musicians.

The show, under the direction of John Viars, will feature Billy McGuigan as Buddy Holly. Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story performances are Sept. 12-Oct. 5.

Based on the life story of the late, great Buddy Holly, this musical follows his climb from poverty and obscurity in Texas to fame and fortune. By the age of 22, he had changed the face of popular music. Buddy features more than 20 of Buddy Holly's greatest hits -- including Peggy Sue, That'll Be The Day and Rave On -- and will have audiences dancing in the aisles at the climactic Surf Ballroom concert."

07.09.2008: Tutu 4 The Price Of None!

When it rains, it pours! Here's a real update from CCDC's Margaruite Du Armaund:

"Hello Emery, Missy and everyone at CCDC! I am very sorry for the huge gap in between my e-mails...It won't happen again, i promise!

OH MY GOSH, I LOVE HOUSTON SO MUCH!! Classes are GREAT! My partner is SO MUCH cuter than KK's partner...by FAR! The humid weather works SO well with my hair...I LOVE the new style it has formed into! So curly! The five-mile walks to whole foods are AWESOME!! SUCH an adventure!!!! ahh!!

Hehe...that was for KK. But really, classes are going quite well considering we have a different ballet teacher everyday of the week. Stability is hard to find in the changing of styles and teachers, however I have been adapting and taking them on as a challenge :) Variations classes have been wonderful...by the time I am done, I will be able to complete all of Swan Lake including white swan, black swan, four swans, big swans, and a character section. Surprisingly, I loved learning the Black Swan variation! It was so challenging, but I felt the most comfortable with the movements compared to the other pieces we are learning. As I was telling you earlier, Serenade rehearsal is going so well. Louis Lester is coming back later this week to rehearse us for two hours in the afternoon to clean the piece. She is the artistic director that set the piece on the company a few years back. I am excited to have her back for rehearsals, however I also like the instructor who has been running them while she has been away. Her name is Sally Rojas, and I also have her for ballet classes. She is extremely blunt, yet explains corrections really well. I also love my modern classes. We have modern twice a week for an hour and a half. The time goes by so fast in the classes...and we work on so many different things. This week we have been focusing on partnering and sharing weight, but all last week was rolling and sliding on the floor and learning how to smoothly transer our weight on the ground. Many bruises resulted form those classes, but I still had a good time.

For the Fourth of July weekend we had three days off...gasp! I kept myself busy with yoga classes (which I have found extremely calming...especially on the days I feel homesick) and adventures around Houston. Eleanore, my roommate, and I took a trip to whole foods...and ended up walking around a large part of Houston. We only saw one other person walking to get anywhere...EVERYONE drives here becuase the city is so spread out! It's kind of a pain, except we finally made a friend with a girl who has a car! her name is Abigail, and she attends the year round program here. Abigail is recovering from surgery, so she stayed here in level seven for the summer program. A lot of the younger students for the year round program go to different summer programs, except for the level eights who are mostly all in the HBII program during the year. I've gotten to know so many other girls...from Australia, South Carolina, California, and up-state New York. We have a lot of fun trying to talk like one another...especially the two from Australia! I've almost got the accent down...it's really tough :)

I should probably get going, though...I still have to make dinner and go through corrections for today. I will write more about the performance in a coupel weeks when I know more about it...I'll also check if there will be videos of it. My mom said she would try to stop by with my address today before classes tonight...If she didn't, just let me know and I will get the address to the school for those of you who wanted it. I miss you all very much and hope your days have been going well!

Much love,
Margot"

07.09.2008: Sarcasm Works!

Reports of the demise of 2K2M apparently "greatly exaggerated". Evidence of the elusive Bob White's continued existence below:

"Hey guys! Sorry I haven't e-mailed back sooner, and no I didn't develop carpal tunnel syndrome :) Everything is going really really super amazingly great here at Joffrey Midwest! I saw that you posted the news story they did on us, and I wasn't on there at all. hehe. I was actually kind of relieved...:) But I can't believe that this is already the fourth week! Time has gone by so fast!!!!! Classes are still going amazingly, the teachers are all really great about giving corrections. We're learning the finale tomorrow for our show...which is going to be so cool with 100 dancers all on stage at the same time! (Kind of like the [Editor's note: insert name of inferior local dance studio here] recitals...?) I'm pretty bummed though because Thursday is our last Pas de Deux class! I think i'm going to cry!!!! :( I really miss everyone tons, and I promise I'll e-mail back again!!!

Love you guys!!,
2K2M"

07.08.2008: Yellow (p)Rose of Texas!

Spoke with Margaruite Du Armaund from the Houston Ballet Summer Intensive last night. She's promising to write an update for this dance blog soon. Meantime, she sounds like she's doing well. Says the classes move along at a fast clip. Not a lot of time to work on things between combinations, so she's making time to go over the new material in what little spare time she has. Margot says she'll be performing at least two pieces in their end of intensive performance: Excerpts from Balanchine's classic Seranade and a modern piece, I think she said. She also says she's learning a character piece, but, en pointe! Fun! (Normally, character dance is performed in character shoes. Hence, the name. See how that works?) She's hoping to bring back a video of the performance for friends and family who can't make it there to see her. And, Margaruite's already half-way done with her 6-week intensive! So, she'll be back sooner than you think! Time to get that care package in the mail...otherwise, you'll be handing it to her half-heartedly on your own soon.

07.08.2008: Tracking The Elusive Bob White!

2K2M has apparently contracted crippling carpal tunnel syndrome and hasn't been e-mailing us anything lately>:o( So, we went searching on the web for her and found video from this year's Joffrey Ballet Summer Intensive from WRNT-TV in Flint. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to spot her in the background anyplace. ...No doubt, she was off icing that "injury" that's keeping her from the keyboard!o(

07.08.2008: Didja ask...Where Ya Bean?

Managed to sneak in a mini-vacation in the middle of last week's "big" vay-kay. We packed up our troubles in our old kit-bag and stuffed a week's worth of doings into our little-more than-a-day long visit to Branson, MO. Check this out from the mighty mini-Vegas of the Midwest: took a duck's tour of the big dam lake, three visits to the local Panera's, caught two living legends for the price of four at the Moon River Theater. (That would be Andy Williams and Ann Margaret.) Ate at the local greasy spoon where a cowboy hatted patron smoked like chimney. The next day, power-shopped the Tanger outlet mall, caught the afternoon show at the Pierce Arrow Theater and dined at local landmark Tony Z's. Then, tired of fighting all the traffic, we scrammed before the checks started bouncing...Here's our reviews and there's even a little dance reax somewhere in the middle, otherwise feel free to skip: Skip the duck ride as well. If you want to ride refurbished amphibious assault vehicles, head to the Dells where I hear the scenery is more arresting. Speaking of arresting, our Captain should be taken into custody and charged with non-stop nonsensical rambling. There's not much to see on most of the tour, so he tried to distract us with a continuing stream of bad jokes. That's an hour of my life I'll never get back. Even the duck-bill shaped kazoo souvenier wasn't worth it...Back on land, that Andy Williams is a living legend. He's probably the last of the old-time crooners, relaxed and comfortable on stage after a lifetime entertaining millions. Now, we can say we've caught his show. And, Ann Margaret must've been "smokin' hot" back in the fifties, sixties and, maybe, into the seventies as her impressive montage of film and television clips showed the audience. But, she's near into her own seventies now and that sexy ship has long since sailed, sunk and seriously decommissioned! If you're going to see this show, take your parents or grandparents. (Here's the dance bit: Margaret's two male background dancers weren't bad, but, the choreography was also all so retro-sixties Liza Minelli style steps, long-in-the-tooth and, like the fading star herself, looking more than a little dated.)...Well, we've given up on the fully "dance-themed" shows in Branson. (Check the archives for reviews of the half-hearted Salute to Broadway and the faux Irish Spirit of the Dance.) So, we considered comedians. But, Yakov Smirnoff was dark during the time we had available. The reservations guy steered us to the Pierce Arrow Show. And, I have to admit their comedian was good. I've done stand-up before, so, I give anyone "mad props" who even attempts to make perfect strangers laugh. The male singers were good, and, I presume, good-looking enough to a generation raised on boy-bands. (One singer's claim to fame was the lowest note ever sung and he boasted a six-octave range! Six! I can barely croak out six notes, let alone octaves!o) But, the female singer seemed to be straining all through the show. Oh, and, it's country. It's definitely country. Everyone was clapping along and smiling to songs I wasn't very familiar with. I actually related best when a son of one of the original Platters was called on stage to sing an old Temptations hit. And, my only other complaint is that I prefer my chauvinistic, jingoistic, nationalistic, hyper-patriotism in small doses. I'm just sayin...

07.07.2008: What Was That Address Again???

An open e-mail to the Capital City Dance Center students currently away at Summer Intensives (Including the latest to leave this past week: The Cardigan Girl and Princess SarAurorah Sonambula):

"Would you believe millions and millions of requests for your snail-mail addresses? Would you believe dozens and doz…Okay, one person wrote me to ask for one of your addresses. But, hey, let’s not quibble! Send me your postal addresses ASAP and, then, wait patiently by the mailbox! (This would be a good opportunity for a nap, 2K!o) Or…Wouldn’t this be an excellent chance to WRITE AN eMAIL and UPDATE us stuck at home??? You know you will have to return eventually and it’s up to you whether we hail you as returning conquering heroes or heroines…or we can ignore you like you ignored US!>o(..."

Enter your postal address here and now!o)

07.07.2008: Media Matters?

I was scolded last week for not writing more about the "vast wasteland", so here goes: Well, since Matt Dorame got voted off SYTYCD this past week, I'm rooting for Hawai'i's Mark Kanemura. The guy is a dance chameleon! Loved his Argentine Tango! And, I had suspected that he might be the protege' of a guy I used to dance with, Marcelo P, in Jane Cassel's Third Wave Dance Theater a long time ago. And, this story in MidWeek Magazine confirms it. (Mark even looks a little like a taller Marcelo if you squint a lot at an analog TV!o) There were several dancers in Third Wave that went on to "immense fame and fortune"! Michael J went on to dance with North Carolina Dance Theater. Ken M moved to L-A and danced on a TV show. Cheryl Y also moved to L-A. I saw her in at least one music video and one TV show. John C moved to SF and took over a dance studio in the Mission district. Marcelo and Deanna L stayed in the islands and choreographed and taught...and, I moved to the mainland and was never heard from again!o(...speaking of "never being heard from again", isn't it past time for Thayne to take the long walk off a short plank on SYTYCD? Still shocked at Maurice's abrupt dismissal in Week Two. But, it seems to me, the judges are getting rid of the younger dancers...And, speaking of getting "rid of" contestants...is it just me? Or, is there a misogynistic bent from the voting public in America's Best Dance Crew? Or, is it the all-distaff crews just can't hang with the physical demands of b-boy breakin'? Last season's finale featured only guys in the last dance-off. (Even though, Kabba Modern had three females and came up just short of the final pairing! Still a little upset about that!) Just askin'...

07.04.2008: Le Jeune Homme Et La Mort!

So, it kinda happened like this...

"As I pulled into the parking lot of the new ballet school in the new city I was visiting, it didn't look promising. I'm a former professional dancer who travels a bit in my new job. And, wherever I travel, I try to take class from different teachers at different studios. I've taken class with the ballet company in Milwaukee and Orlando. I've taken classes with studios in Honolulu and Phoenix. I've even taken class in Tokyo and Naha, Okinawa. But, the huge parking lot of this new studio in this unnamed city was empty except for one conspicuous big white truck.

I popped out of the car, not expecting much. But, sometimes studios put a schedule up on the door. So, even if they weren't having class right then, sometimes I was able to figure out when I could come back. I'd tried calling several times, but, all I got was an enigmatic User Busy signal before it stopped ringing. A guest instructor at our studio had recommended this place when she learned I'd be going to that state for a visit. But, it didn't look very promising...

...the door was unlocked. All the lights were on. "Hello?", I yelled as I stepped inside. No answer. I leaned in one big studio. "Hello!", I tried again. "Anyone home?" Still no answer. The bulletin board had a flier from their summer program tacked on it. Hmm, Vaganova training. That could be good or bad depending on how tight their grip on Aggripina's syllabus was. But, apparently, their intensive had just ended the week before. But, why were all the lobby lights still on and the front door unlocked?

I turned on some lights in what looked like an office. Still no one there. I walked to the back and looked around. No signs of life. I walked back to the door and turned around for one last look. I could see my own footprints in what looked like a freshly mopped floor. "Uh-oh!" I thought to myself. "Someone's not gonna like that!" Now, I was hoping I wouldn't run into anyone!

I turned off the lights and walked back to the front lobby. The studios had marley, but, were barely raised. Maybe a half-inch at most. That wasn't enough in my book, but, because the ceiling wasn't raised either, they may have been trying to maximize the jumping space. The main studio at my home city didn't have that false ceiling, so we could have room to practice overhead lifts if we needed. But, a hard surface barely off concrete was an invitation to back and ankle problems in my book.

I took one last look around, yelled one last time. Then, I pushed open the door, turned on my heel and left with more questions than I arrived with.

That's why, when the police found the body in the back, with my fingerprints and shoeprints all over the place, I became the main suspect..."

...Okay, Okay! All except for that last sentence is pretty much what happened when I dropped by the studio that Karina recommended this past week. That's the long way of saying, I got no class! Uh...dance class, that is!o) I've had to make do with giving myself barre on carpet over concrete!:oP I put on an interval weight/aerobic or yoga DVD and, then, do a little barre. My feet, legs and body hurt, even though I don't do any jumping at all. The good news is, I should be back in town giving class on a triple-basket-weave, fully suspended floor with marley under no false ceiling as early as this Sunday at our usual time! That is unless the coppers stop me at the border!o) C'mon, Lefty! Give 'er the gas! Gotta find that one-armed man in that big, white truck!o)

06.29.2008: A Parker Prescription...

As he rides off into the sunset while softly strumming his six-string, CCDC 2008 Summer Intensive Guest Faculty Andrew Parker leaves us this message:

"June 2008
A Note from Andrew Parker
Dear CCDC Dancers:

It was a joy and honor to work with each of you recently! You are blessed and wise to have selected CCDC for your dance education. The detailed, personalized and outstanding teaching you are receiving from your directors, Missy and Emery, and other faculty, will serve you very, very well wherever your future paths may lead. Success and fulfillment in life stem from integrity (grit and determination included!), intelligence, compassion (passion included!), commitment and doing/sharing things you love.

With classical ballet at the heart of its curriculum, enhanced by other styles and forms of dance expression, CCDC clearly has developed an impressive track record of artistic achievement in a relatively brief time. I was so pleased to discover professional high-quality ballet training was still available in Greater Des Moines, after my years as principal dancer and teacher with Ballet Iowa back in the 90's.

In closing, a bit more teaching...

Strive for your personal best each and every moment in life.... enjoy the ride with all the ups and downs... and with dedication, trust and joy, immerse yourselves fully in the glorious art of ballet!

With thanks and best wishes to each of you,

Andrew Parker"

06.29.2008: ...And, Kind Words From Karina

Here's some feedback from Capital City Dance Center 2008 Summer Intensive Guest Faculty Karina Lheozcky:

"...I had a wonderful time teaching your students. Missy and Emery, you have created a positive and nurturing studio environment for your students. They exhibited strong ballet technique, an excellent work ethic, and open minds to new corrections and ideas. It was a pleasure and honor to work with them and you."

And, Karina also responded to requests for the music she used in repertory and choreography

"...Here is the music run down...

• The modern choreography music is set to the first song on a cd by Wim Mertens called the Best of Wim Mertens.


• The ballet choreography is set to a piece called First Impressions by Edgar Meyers. It is on a cd by Yo Yo Ma called Impassionato.


• Other music I used in modern class was Deep Forest, Kodo, and music to a documentary called African World. There was another cd I used called Breathe but I can't remember the artist..."

06.27.2008: Mercury Rising

It's only a matter of time until that heat and humidity swelters into summer. So, here are some tips from the state department of Public Health on how to keep your cool:

"Rising temperatures coupled with higher humidity levels raise health concerns related to heat illness for all midwesterners, especially those doing flood recovery work. “The strenuous work of flood cleanup and repair is challenging, even for young and healthy individuals,” said Department of Public Health Director Tom Newton. “Combine the hard work with heat and humidity, and the possibility of heat exhaustion exists. Make sure you take the time to rest, rehydrate and relax even if you have a lot of cleanup to do”.

There are many ways to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses. By taking some simple steps, and being aware of your body’s response to heat and humidity, you can avoid the potentially serious complications of heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, sugar-free fluids like water. If possible, avoid caffeinated and carbonated beverages.
• Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink water. If you are thirsty, you are already low on fluids.
• When temperatures are high, drinking two to four 8-ounce glasses of cool fluid an hour will help keep you hydrated.
• If you drink enough fluid that you have to urinate every couple of hours or more, you are probably keeping up with your fluid needs.
• Salt and minerals lost through sweating can be replaced with a variety of foods and beverages.
• Rehydration fluids like sports beverages designed for athletes and Pedialyte for young children.
• Salty foods like salted crackers, or fruits, especially bananas, can help replace the potassium lost in perspiration.
• Work during the cooler times of day and wear appropriate loose, light-weight clothing.
• Keep up a normal diet, but avoid hot foods and heavy meals. Eat plenty of salads and fruits, but avoid sugary foods and drinks as they can make you thirstier.
• If working outdoors, wear sunscreen, large brimmed hats and stay in the shade as much as possible.
• Ventilation and air movement will help reduce heat related illness. Use fans and air conditioning whenever possible. Take cool showers.
• Pace yourself. Start slowly and pick up intensity gradually. If exertion makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP the activity.
• Take frequent breaks - at least five minutes each hour - to drink cool fluids and rest in a shady or air conditioned area.
• Take care of each other. Watch the condition of co-workers or those around you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or even lose consciousness.

To avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke, be aware of your body’s reaction to heat and humidity. A decrease in urination or dark colored urine, a dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing up are all symptoms of dehydration and potential heat illness. If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately take time to rest in a cool area, re-hydrate and relax!"

06.26.2008: Dancers Delight!

Got a call from C-Dub last night. Apparently the peer pressure from my not-so-subtle hints in this blog worked! Ekaterina 'da Ballerina says she got into the seventh highest level of eight at Washington Ballet Summer School. She says she's also taking authentic Spanish Flamenco and she loves it! But, Katya says her tap training's helping a lot in that class. A lot of the other dancers who had no such training are floundering at their flamenco apparently. Ms W00tang also says she's taking "the world's hardest Pilates classes" taught by a former professional dancer. I told her she was in great shape when she left and was dancing real well and that class still challenged her? She said YES! But, she enjoyed it and what she learned carried over into the ballet class immediately following it. Sounds like she's having a great time! ...but, apparently, not as great as 2K2M!!! She finally wrote back:

"Hey Guys! Sorry it's taken me so long to write again, I've been so pooped after classes and rehearsals that I just come back to the hotel and crash! I absolutely love it here at Joffrey Midwest! I seriously think it's the funnest thing I've ever done!!!!!!! AHHHHHH!

Classes here are so much fun, and I'm getting pushed A LOT. One of the hardest things for me is definitely working on not being intimidated by the other dancers here. A lot of them have been to other summer intensives, and there are a ton of really talented dancers here. But the teachers totally understand how hard I'm working. I was taking class with Ms. Juralev the other day (the hardcore russian teacher who made a girl cry) and after class was over I decided to stay after a little bit and work on some things while everyone else went to lunch. Ms Juralev watched me for awhile and then said, "That is so sad." And I said, "I'm sorry I know I should have turned out more, I'll fix it!!!" And then she said, "No, no, no, it isn't that. I think it's sad that you're the only one in your class that wants to get better." And then she walked away! Haha I was like YES!! I got total bonus points with the Russian lady!!! Which is actually a really good thing because she is the one that is setting our ballet piece on us. We're doing La Sylphide!!!! IT'S ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS I LOVE IT!!!

But, yes, pas de deux class is my absolute favorite thing on earth!! I'm tellin' you guys, we have got to get some more guys at CCDC!! I don't think i'll be able to wait until next summer to partner again! :(

I've met so many great people here though! Everyone is friends with everyone here, and we've all become a really big family. The dancers in the upper level are so nice, and they're really great about giving us advice. Actually, the guy that I have for partnering, Aaron, is really great about giving me corrections during partnering , because he knows that it's my first time. But it was awesome because we had pas de deux class with John Magnus on Monday and he was trying to get us to connect more with our partner during adagio, and feel the energy between us. So we did the combination, and then John Magnus came over to me and Aaron and shook our hands. We're kind of like, "huh?" But then he said to everyone, "Class I want you to watch Kaitlin and Aaron do this combination and look at the connection they have!!! Watch and learn!!!" Haha I was like AAAAHHH!!!!!! Me and the cutest guy on the planet have connection?!?!?!

I'm having the best time of my life here but I miss you guys tons!!!!! I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!

Love,
2K2M"

06.26.2008: Gnaw Ledge 4 Awl!

(Courtesy Newswise) — Healthy seniors who are physically active and exercise for more than 60 minutes each week can lessen their chances of disability as they age, finds a new long-term study.

“This study contributes to the large body of scientific evidence supporting the importance of continuing to be physical active over one’s life,” said lead author Bonnie Bruce.

The researchers looked at 805 adults between the ages 50 and 72 at enrollment and followed for them for 13 years, from 1989 to 2002. Each year, participants answered survey questions about their overall health and vitality and rated themselves on their ability (or inability) to do tasks such as dressing, eating and reaching. Responses fell on a scale from 0 (no difficulty) to 3 (unable to do).

Participants also reported their level of activity and were considered “active” if they exercised vigorously — for example, running, brisk walking, swimming, biking and hiking — more than 60 minutes per week, or “inactive” if 60 minutes or less per week.

The researchers then grouped them as normal-weight active, normal-weight inactive, overweight active or overweight inactive, with BMI determining their weight group.

The normal-weight physically active seniors reported an average of 303 minutes of exercise per week, compared with an average of 16 minutes for normal-weight inactive seniors. On the other hand, overweight seniors who were physically active reported an average of 251 minutes per week, compared with 12 minutes for the overweight inactive seniors.

After 13 years, the overweight active seniors (average disability score 0.14) had significantly less disability than the overweight inactive (average disability score 0.19) and normal-weight inactive seniors (average disability score 0.22) seniors.

The researchers concluded that being physically active, regardless of body weight, helped lessen disability. Bruce said that public health efforts that promote physically active lifestyles among seniors may be more feasible than those that emphasize body weight to remain healthy. (Editor's note: Why not take a CCDC adult ballet, jazz or Pilates class?)

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(Courtesy Newswise) — Is the idea that the freshman year of college—newly away from home and susceptible to the all-you-can-eat buffet—may be an especially vulnerable time for weight gain merely a myth? No, says psychology professor Jill Holm-Denoma.

“What we found is that people — both men and women — do, on average, gain more weight their freshman year of college than they do at any other period in their life,” says Holm-Denoma. “But it’s nowhere near 15 pounds; it’s more like three to four pounds. It may not sound like much, but on average, across their lifespan, adults, including similar-age adults who are not in college, gain about 0.9 pounds a year. So at three or four times what people normally gain, the study determined that, yes, the freshman year is a high-risk time period for substantial weight gain."

Perhaps most surprisingly, neither eating junk food, nor eating more healthfully was an accurate predictor of who would gain weight and what caused those who gained weight to do so. While both men and women gained weight equally, the predictors of what causes certain people to gain weight were opposite. In men and women, the relationship with parents impacts whether you gain weight at college. But men who had problematic relationships with their parents gained weight, whereas having good relationships with parents caused weight gain in women.

Holm-Denoma asked students in their senior year of high school, right after they were admitted to college, to fill out a 9-page questionnaire detailing their eating habits and also answering questions about alcohol abuse habits, depression, and past eating disorder symptoms, to get a sense of mental health status that can relate to eating. The students were then surveyed again partway through their freshman year of college.

Additionally, a third of the sample was followed after the first semester, a third was followed up in February, and the final third of the sample was followed up in the spring at the very end of their freshman year to determine when the weight gain happens. “People,” says Holm-Denoma, “gained weight by the end of the first semester and then it kind of stabilized over time, so it happens pretty quickly.” (Editor's note: Word to the wise!o)

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06.25.2008: Hot Child In The City

Might as well bookmark this. It's SFBoy's ballet blog about his classes at San Francisco Ballet School this summer. He's been blogging daily and in detail, with some pix. I know, I know...it's hard to top his pictures of M&M's in the Big Apple last year! But, this year's blog allows us a more in-depth glimpse into one of the most exclusive summer programs in the country. (He says he's been put in the "short" men's group for pas de deux! His latest entry also talks about his new trick for making his legs look even longer! Because, y'know, they have been looking awfully stubby lately!o) I've put it on the list of my daily must-read blogs. Fresh content, good writing...almost makes us not miss having him in class!

06.25.2008: Bandwagon Jumpers!o)

American Ballet Theater is apparently bourreing in Capital City Dance Center's footsteps!o) Here's an interesting post about their La Bayadere excerpted below:

"...Of course this ballet is so beautiful, many come regardless of who’s dancing, just for the story and the poetry of the choreography, particularly the breathtaking Kingdom of the Shades scene (which at first I have to admit I wasn’t so fond of because it’s so slow and there are few men) but has really grown on me with its beauty. This is the part of the ballet where Solor sleeps and dreams of his Nikiya, whose image floods his subconsious by suddenly duplicating itself many many times over, as illustrated by a series of ballerinas all in white, emanating from the mountainside traveling forward in a pattern of lovely arabesques, then taking center stage and bourreeing in place, all in perfect sync, in perfect harmony, reminiscient of a spirit-world, and foreshadowing that this is the only place Solor and Nikiya will be together..."

06.25.2008: Inquring Mindz Wanna No!

Here are some more questions for CCDC dancers too tired to come up with good topics to write home about:

1. What do you know now that you wish you knew before you left? How could you have been better prepared for your intensive?
2. What’s giving you the hardest time? And, what’s easy for you that’s hard for other dancers?
3. What kind of advice would you give to other CCDC students who may choose to go to the Joffrey intensive next year?
4. Did you forget to pack anything that you’re going to remember to take next year?
5. What’s the hardest technical ballet step you’re being asked to do? Jazz? Modern?
6. What’s the best correction you’ve gotten since you’ve been gone? Harshest criticism? Kindest compliment?
7. How good are the best dancers in the most advanced classes? What’s the most difficult thing you’ve seen performed for the first time in person?
8. What’s the hardest thing about living on your own for the first time? Any laundry stories?

06.24.2008: Dance Together...or Fall Apart?

NE1 going to this? We're outta here...

State Dance Network Gathering & Workshop

A Free Workshop

State Dance Network Gathering & Workshop, Sunday, 6/29/08, State Historical Building Cafe, 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Free and open to all interested dancers!

The State Dance Network will hold its first gathering on Sunday, 6/29/08, State Historical Building Cafe, 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. This new group is meant to serve local dancers--from classical ballet to folk and traditional of various cultures, from modern to tap, from jazz to hiphop and everything in between and around the edges!

This gathering, which is free and specifically aimed at dancers 18 and over, will offer a variety of sessions: grant writing for grants, information about performing and teaching artist rosters, how to use new media for marketing, and more. There will be opportunities to network and collaborate with colleagues from across the state as well as dance breaks!

Following is the Gathering & Workshop schedule:

• 10 a.m.             Coffee/Tea/Snacks/Introductions
  
• 10:30 a.m.         Arts Council Rosters (Performing and Teaching Artists information and q&a)
  
• 11:30 a.m.          Arts Council Grant workshop (overview of IAC grants)-Pt 1
  
• 12:30 p.m.         Lunch break/networking
  
• 1:30 p.m.           Arts Council Grant workshop (grants review exercise, q&a)--Pt 2
  
• 2:30 p.m.           Dance Break
  
• 3 p.m.               Marketing & New Media (Valerie Williams, Co'Motion Dance Theater)
  
• 4 p.m.               Evaluation--where do we go from here?

06.23.2008: Texas Tutu Step!

...and, Margaruite Du Armaund checks in from the 2nd biggest state in the union!o)

"It is so good to hear from you! Thanks for giving me an update from home. It's nice to hear some normal news in such an unfamiliar place :)

That's awesome that Giselle and Rothbarta get to finally take class! I know G was bummed last week because her job conflicted with intensive....and I'm sure the dread Sorceress was itching to get to class as well!

Classes are going okay. Your Sunday classes sound great about now, actually...Even if the instructors don't really know me yet, i have made friends with one of the piantist! Her name is Margot, and she is this little old lady from Russia. She was telling me how to get rid of the swelling in blisters...cabbage leaves do the trick i guess! She told me to wrap cabbage leaves around the wound and the swelling would go down along with hot water and baking soda baths! I'll have to try it the next time i get a blister. Maybe I will ask her if she knows any tricks that would help with your calf muscle?

Today was probably the first class where I felt comfortable with the teacher and the other dancers...a step in the right direction finally! The classes themselves are great. I love pointe class with Dawn Scannel, and ballet class with Mrs. Lenzy (not sure on the spelling) is really wonderful because I feel like she understands how I tense up and what to say to help me with that problem. We had another pas class on Thursday with Andrew Murphy (not the same instructor as before) and I felt really good afterwards. I had a partner who really knew what he was doing and wasn't afraid to talk to me so we could work a lot of things out when we did continuous finger turns (I dont know if they have a technical name?). We learned the pas from the third act of Sleeping Beauty so we worked on one handed promenades and the developpe' lifts...and I kept on picturing SMilz working with Dima!

Serenade rehearsals are going very well. We aren't doing the whole piece including the pas, so it's only about ten minutes of dancing or so. I love the choreography and am excited to start cleaning it on Monday! We also started rehearsals for a contemporary piece that is choreographed by one of the level 8's who will be in the HBII program next year. We started learning the choreography on Friday and it is a little outside of my box, which is exactly what I need! I had to work on it all Friday night to get the movements right...it's a little difficult and super fast! The piece is set to Vivaldi and Bach, and it reminds me of Cooperz choreography with a sharper edge. The most difficult aspect is that it is en pointe and he doesn't realize that some things on flat feel completely different in pointe shoes...so we had to ask a lot of questions about hte transition steps. otherwise, I think if I keep on going over the steps I will feel more natural doing them. (I hope!) We get done everyday around six-thirty...and by then we are quite exhausted! Tomorrow is my day off...and I think Eleanor (my roommate) and I will take a trip to Whole Foods and the movie store.

The Houston heat doesn't really affect us during the day because we are inside during the afternoon hours. We ahve been getting thunderstorms almost every night, but thankfully nothing like hurricane weather! That should come near the end of July (I'm crossing my fingers for the beginning of August when I am safe at home!) I have kept up with the flooding through the morning news here...and am so happy that the Capital City area wasn't badly affected.

I talked with Natasha the other day...and she said intensive was going really well aside form the classes being a little smaller. She said she loved Karina's modern class and was looking forward to Mr. Parker's contemporary rep. I'm sure it was sad seeing them go. Tell them thank you for me if you get the chance...I wasn't able to properly thank them before I left. House of Hunan sounds great! There are supposed to be delicious mexican restaurants down here, but nothing is really within walking distance in Houston except for the nearest Krogers! Everyone drives cars here...and it is such a spread out city. Maybe I will get lucky and make friends with someone who has a car!

I have been keeping up with 2K2m's e-mails! She sounds like she is having a great first experience! It's awesome! I talked to her a little last Sunday, and she sounded like she was settling in just fine. I talked to SFBoy when he first got to San Francisco...except he was only to the baggage claim, so he didn't have very much excited news to tell me. I haven't talked to Ekaterina yet, but I know that she left yesterday with her mom...I'll have to see how she is doing!

Tell everyone hi for me! I'll let my mom know about the pictures as soon as possible. Next time I write i'll let you know how the contemporary piece is going (hopefully well...!)"

06.23.2008: SYTYCD

Here's a link to an article and following post-discussion of the last week's suprising results. And, can't say I disagree with author/blogger Tonya Planck.

06.23.2008: 'Da Annual Dancer Diaspora!

The yearly trickle has become a flood. Fond farewells bid to the CCDC 2008 Summer Intensive Guest Faculty as well as many dancers on their way to summer intensives around the country. (As well as MMMad Skyllz off to that other Sunshine State to work on her tan!o) Ekaterina W00tang and GitUrFaShawn off to opposite sides of the country. Katya to D-C and SFBoy to one of my favorite cities, that glittering Bagdad By The Bay. And, while NOT A SINGLE WORD YET from C-Dub, the xSABoy checks in with this link to a summer blog:

"I'm trying to start up my new San Francisco blog. Everything is going pretty well so far, not that we've done anything ballet-wise yet. Anyway..."

...More dancers leave this weekend, so enjoy them while you can!

06.20.2008: Inside The Intensive@CCDC!

Overheard in CCDC Summer Intensive Guest Faculty Instructor Andrew Parker's classes:

"Keep your foot on the gas pedal! Don't let that pirouette just peter out!"

"It's like you're running for the bus...but, halfway there, you just give-up!"

"Let's do that exercise again to different music!"

"Sometimes if we're not good at something...we just give up working on it. Turn-out is a good example. Don't give up!"

"Preparation for each exercise is your chance to start developing and demonstrating your musicality!"

"There's pointing your feet...and, then, there's REALLY pointing your feet! There's stretching your legs...and, then, there's REALLY stretching your legs!"

"You have to know when to loosen that corset...and when to lace it up tight! You have to know when to seem soft...and when to work hard!"

06.20.2008: Diasporean Dialogue

Here's a copy of an e-mail I just sent to Margaruite and 2K2M:

"Hey Margot! Great to hear from you! Sounds like you're doing good!o)

Well, not much news to report from back home. But, the weather's been very sunny and dry since the weekend, so, waters are receding.

I'm back at work this week, so, I feel a little removed from the Intensive. I only get to see everyone for about a half-hour after work. They're all pooped from dancing all day! It's a little funny actually.

But, I've been giving myself class and Giselle and Rothbarta have come occasionally. I actually had both in class Sunday. No one showed up but me Monday. Giselle with me on Tuesday. Rothbarta on Wednesday.

Here's the lesson: be careful when it's just you and me in a class. I think I about killed Giselle with corrections when we went one-on-one! (She didn't come back the next day!) And, I pushed Rothbarta real hard last night as well. (Hour-and-a-half barre!)

My calf injury's gotten a lot better. I can actually releve' on it now. I may have pushed it a little too hard last night...but, as you know, us dancers gotta dance!

Tonight, quick barre before we take the guest teachers out for a farewell dinner. We're taking them to one of Missy's favorite Chinese restaurants for one of her favorite dishes: (Orange Chicken with extra sauce on the side from House of Hunan!o)

Pictures have arrived from Tim McConnell. You should tell your Mom to drop-by and pick yours up! If you have extra, make sure to autograph a couple and give them to me and Miss!

Hope you've had a chance to read KK's e-mail messages on the website! She's soo energetic and crazy in the absolute best way!

Okay! Gotta actually work now!
Miss ya a lot! Have fun! I'm jealous!"

06.19.2008: Houston! We have no problems!

We got a voice-mail from CCDC student Margaruite Du Armaund over the weekend...and, now, she follows up with this update from the great state of Texas:

"Hello everyone!

I hope you get this email okay...the computers at my apartment complex are a little funny when you try to email things. I thought i would wait a couple days before beginning my e-mailing...that way i'd have some interesting things to tell all of you. I'll start with my classes at the Houston Ballet School...they are very similar to those at home (awesome and grueling!) and the instructors are very focused on strong placement and classical positions (a couple of the goobers in my level love to use swan lake styled arms during class). Mornings start out with a technique class and proceed to a pointe or variations class. Dawn Scannel, who used to be a member with Houston Ballet but now is the ballet mistress i believe?, has taught two of my pointe classes already and i love them because they remind me of home and really prepare you for the rest of the day rehearsals en pointe. As far as corrections go, most are given to the whole class; however, i have gotten a couple on holding my ribs similar to (SFBoy), and bringing my head a little more forward.

Rehearsals in the afternoon are great. The level 7, which is the level i am in, is learning Balanchine's Serenade. It is a beautiful piece. It is very thrilling to see all of the figurations come together during the group movement. Corps rehearsals really prepared me for all of the exactness needed for the piece and the mandatory use of counting music! It's crazy because you will have four-eight counting, six-eight, and all the other ones in only a little part of the piece...it's all over the place! Loise Lester is setting the piece on us...she gives most of the company classes during the year. That is one thing i love about Houston; Many of the teachers here also work with the company members and many of the kids that attend the year round program stay for the summer program. We are in such close contact to the company members so you get more of a feel to how their schedules work during the year.

My roommate is really great. She trains at Boston Ballet School and is a little older so we get along quite well. I also met a girl from Australia who is hoping to get into the year-round program so she can continue her training. We spent a day trying to talk like each other...which was amusing! There is another girl here who reminds me so much of liz...she doesn't look like her at all, but the mannerisms are the same and i get along with her really well.

Partnering was crazy for the first class! He had us doing all sorts of things, both contemporary and classical. I'll have to show you a couple of the lifts when i get back! Despite the many bruises, I felt prepared thanks to Emery's partnering classes!

I'll write more next time, but it is getting a little late and i need to go over the counts for Serenade before i go to bed :) I miss you all very much. Hopefully the water has cleared a little so you can all enjoy the weather!

Much love,
Marguerite"

06.19.2008: A Global Perspective

Here's an interesting excerpt from one of my favorite dance websites. It's a look from contributor Deborah Friedes at how dance training differs in another country:

"Ballet, the foundation of many dancers’ training in the U.S. and Europe, does not have strong roots here in Israel. Without a wealth of professional ballet companies and their attached academies, the country’s dance training system for children and adolescents follows a different model. There are plenty of independent studios throughout Israel, but it seems that for teenagers who are serious about becoming dancers, the key site of training is a solid high school dance department (and I mean solid - this is not at all like my public high school in the U.S., which had two classes labeled dance that primarily readied us for swimsuit season with lots of ab work set to music). The best high school programs in Israel bear some resemblance to U.S. university programs, with courses in ballet, modern dance, composition, improvisation, repertory, history, anatomy, music, and other related subjects. It’s from here that many dancers enter the professional world, further polishing their skills in workshop groups and second companies (such as those affiliated with Batsheva, the Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company, or Vertigo Dance Company) or performing with independent choreographers. The university, which has such a prominent role in educating America’s modern dancers, is barely present in the Israeli training system. Two notable exceptions are Seminar HaKibbutzim in Tel Aviv and the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, but their programs emphasize pedagogy rather than performance or choreography. It’s important to note that the students at these colleges are older, having spent a few years - often the most formative ones in a dancer’s life - completing army service. Some dancers get out of the military in order to train and perform during this crucial phase of artistic development..."

Click the link to read the rest.

06.18.2008: Sparks From Flint!

Well, so much for answering "a few" questions everyday! Our prodigal dancer, 2K2M, the prototypical over-achiever, answers EVERYTHING all at once! (Including that question about if there are any "cuties" among the boys!o):

"Hey ya'll!! Here's some answers to those questions....

What level ballet did you get in? Out of how many? How many kids in your class? Where are you? WHO are you again?
I got placed in level B, and there are 3 levels. There are about 32 kids in my class, which is intimidating at first, but I love it! I'm in Flint BABY! Haha our whole time is spent at the Flint Cultural Center which is absolutely GORGEOUS!!

How much are you dancing? What different kinds of classes?
Well for the first week we're dancing 8-5..they want to "break us in." But, starting next week we're going to be going 8 a.m.-9 p.m. because of rehearsals!! YAYYYYY! We have ballet, pointe, variations, pas de deux, pilates, and jazz.

What's the most interesting different dance forms or classes you're taking?
Jazz is definitely waaaay different from what I usually get! But it's so great being able to experience different styles and teachers. (MUCH more hip movement) :)

Any specific differences they're asking for in ballet or pointe technique?
It's all pretty similar to what I usually get. Except, for flexed foot out on frappes'

Who're your main teachers? Where did they train or perform? Who's your favorite and why? (We r NOT insulted;o)
I LOVE JOHN MAGNUS!!! HE IS AMAZING! Ahhh. I absolutely love him! The first day of classes he told me that he saw that I was a very hard worker and asked me to show a combination in center!! He is always telling us to dance with spirt and soul, and to show our passion.

What kind of corrections or compliments have you been getting?
I've been getting a lot of corrections on not holding my tension in my upper body, and being more precise with what positions my feet are in. I've been getting compliments on really filling out the music in adagio.

Any interesting characters in class? (Besides yourself, I mean!o)
haaaaa there is this one girl Emily who is hilarious and sneezes kind of like Kelli!!!

What's the hardest thing to get used to?
Definitely being away from home, and not seeing all of the familiar faces from CCDC!

Are you rehearsing for performance?
Not yet, but soon to come!!

What's the best dance move you've seen so far?
Haha this hip circle thing that the jazz teacher does. He calls it the "Monastary"

What are you doing in partnering or repertory?
Pas De Deux is my favorite!!! AHHHHH I LOVE IT! It's so much fun! We do like pirouettes with our partner and finger fouettes but we're also doing adagio which is my favorite! I'm definitely going to start recruiting guys for CCDC!

Howz the city? Howz the weather? What're you doing in your spare time?
SLEEPING AND EATING! Our whole day is filled with dance!

How many times do people ask if you live on a farm or how much they like potatoes?
Yes, I get that a lot!

I miss you guys!
Love,
2K2M"

06.18.2008: Brush With Fame

So, are you watching this year's SYTYCD IV? Well, one of the Capital City Dance Center Summer Intensive Guest Faculty actually taught one of this year's top twenty. Andrew Parker says he taught Chris Jarosz this past year at Southern Methodist University. Chris's the one that Nigel Lythgoe criticized as having "the personality of a tree"! (And, trees everywhere were instantly offended!o) I think that may be a little harsh, but, if you haven't picked anyone to vote for yet, there's your connection!

06.17.2008: Tell Us EVERYTHING!

Okay, I lost 2K2M's e-mail address in cyber-limbo before I could write back 2 her, but, here's a list of specific and generic questions to help y'all write back to us still fighting the flooding in the water-logged capital city:

1. What level ballet did you get in? Out of how many? How many kids in your class? Where are you? WHO are you again?


2. How much are you dancing? What different kinds of classes?


3. What's the most interesting different dance forms or classes you're taking?


4. Any specific differences they're asking for in ballet or pointe technique?


5. Who're your main teachers? Where did they train or perform? Who's your favorite and why? (We r NOT insulted;o)


6. What kind of corrections or compliments have you been getting?


7. Any interesting characters in class? (Besides yourself, I mean!o)


8. What's the hardest thing to get used to?


9. Are you rehearsing for performance?


10. Where's your roomie from?


11. What's the best dance move you've seen so far?


12. What are you doing in partnering or repertory?


13. Any guys? Any good? Any cuties, 2K2M???


14. Howz the city? Howz the weather? What're you doing in your spare time?


15. How many times do people ask if you live on a farm or how much they like potatoes?

...OK! Got 2K2M's address from her maternal unit! She'll get this list in the next email call. TwoKTwoM, just answer one or two everyday! And, when you run out of all 15, I'll think of more! Miss ya!o(

06.17.2008: The Reviews Are In!

Before we bid final bye-byes to La Bayadere...And More!, here's an e-mailed retrospective to Capital City Dance Center's Artistic Director:

"...I really liked the recital! All the soloists and demi-soloists looked good and well-prepared, and were well-cast.

Manou and the 2 girls were just charming. Nataliya had a hard part and really pulled it off. La Lissa was lovely. Ekaterina 'da Ballerina was strong and consistent and unflappable. The pas de quatres were all together and really beautiful to watch.

Emerico was right when he told me SarAurorah and Margot were completely different dancers and would do Nikiya differently. I am starting to appreciate the subtle nuances each dancer brings to a role. I thought La Sonambula was mesmerizing and conveyed the emotion well, and she and SFBoy really seemed to have a palpable chemistry on stage since they are good friends...Margaruite was so precise and technically strong, and conveyed a quiet sweetness in her role. GitUrFaShawn was stronger in his jumps and turns and more relaxed in his acting--I think he looks outstanding! You are going to have a great crop of seniors and more photos for your lobby wall next year!

I really liked your tap choreography. It was interesting and enjoyable at all stages and ages. The Hammer does nice modern choreography, I would love to see her explore more different types of music. And the All That Jazz number was really fun to watch.

I'm sure I'm forgetting some things and hope I haven't left anyone out. I really appreciate you and Emerico...It's an incredible amount of work for both of you. I hope you get a little R&R this summer..."

06.17.2008: Performance Tip

Honky Tonk Laundry the new country hit musical by Roger Bean, will be performed at Drake University June 20-21.

Both performances will start at 7:30 p.m. in the Hall of Performing Arts, Harmon Fine Arts Center. Tickets are available at the Box Office.

Honky Tonk Laundry features Alexis Van Vleet and Gina Gedler as Katie and Lana Mae, who are up to their elbows in soapsuds and cheatin' boyfriends at the Wishy Washy Washateria. When these two country angels join forces, they turn their good ol' laundromat into a boot-scootin'-boogie honky-tonk, guaranteeing every customer a good, clean time.

Honky Tonk Laundry features music of The Dixie Chicks, Terri Clark, Patsy Cline, Amy Dailey, Rebecca Lynn Howard, Loretta Lynn, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, LeAnn Rimes, Pam Tillis and Tammy Wynette.

The show was a huge hit at Indian Hills Community College, said Jennifer Boyenga, theatre director at the college. "The performers were outstanding and our audience loved them," she added. "We had tons of positive comments from our regular patrons. A hilarious production -- we'd recommend them!"

06.16.2008: Come Heck or High H2O

This just in:

The State Department of Cultural Affairs urging residents to report recent flood, storm and tornado damage of cultural, historical and art properties and assets to a special email account and through a series of upcoming conference calls.

DCA is requesting reports about cultural, historical and art properties and assets that include – but are not limited to – art galleries, art museums, performance art centers, artist’s studios, historic buildings, cemeteries, archaeological sites, artifacts, museum collections and archives.

“We are receiving scattered reports already, but we are urging residents to contact us through the special email account and on the conference calls so we can develop a comprehensive report of the damage our cultural, historical and art properties and assets have suffered,” said Cyndi Pederson, director of the Department of Cultural Affairs. “This information will be critical in determining the financial assistance residents will need to recover and rebuild.”

Residents can report damage to a special email account. In the subject line, please identify the community and the cultural resource impacted by the flooding. Replies will not be issued from this email account.

Residents can also report damage during a series of conference calls at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, June 19; 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 24; and 1:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26. Iowans should call toll-free at 866-685-1580; the conference code is 5152816320#.

Residents can also visit here for technical assistance, disaster response and financial resource information. The information is directed primarily to cultural, historical and art organizations and historic property owners, but can also be applied to most dwellings and collections. Examples of information include:

• treating flood-damaged homes and properties


• working with contractors and architects


• salvaging water-damaged collections


• links to nearly two dozen organizations that offer a wide variety of technical assistance

The Web site also offers directions for applying for emergency Historic Resource Development Program grants.

“Water and loss of humidity and temperature control can cause enormous damage to historical documents, artifacts, historic buildings, archaeological sites, cemeteries, government records and art collections,” Pederson said. “A single flood can erase substantial portions of a community’s unique recorded history, and water distorts paper and causes ink and other media to run or even disappear. Wet records, artifacts and art pieces can grow mold within 48 hours, so even a small water disaster requires a prompt response.”

06.16.2008: Voices Of Angels

Not only is the price right, but, here's an opportunity to hear what all the fuss is about:

"Hi All,

I know among our choristers there's always the desire to move up to the next choir. That would make Youth Chorale the ultimate goal. In Youth Chorale the ultimate goal is summer tour for which they depart next Monday the 23rd. Before they go they will grace the metro with one last concert this season, their free Farewell concert Sunday at 3 PM at the Temple for the Performing Arts in the Grand Hall. The Farewell concert is the culmination of the entire season's efforts by our most advanced choristers. We invite you to come and appreciate their efforts. There will be no admission cost (a free will offering will be taken), just great music performed by our top choir. I hope I see you there."

06.15.2008: 2K2M, Gone, But, Not 4Gotten!

The first 2 go is the first 2 write 2 us! CCDC's 2K2M "abandoned us" on Friday promising to write "everyday". Yeah, yeah, I thought 2 myself, as I "valiantly fought back tears":o( That's what everyone says! But, true 2 her word! 2K2M, as usual, sets a high standard 4 herself and 4 others. This is her first (Hopefully, of many!o) entry:

"Hey Guys! I had such a great start to Joffrey Midwest! We had placement class today and it was so much fun! The instructor was this Russian lady from New York with a really thick accent. I got placed in level B! My roommate is really cool too, she is super funny. I know that this is gonna be a really amazing experience and I'm gonna keep you guys updated on the latest from Flint! I miss you guys!

Love,

...2K2M"

06.13.2008: Come Heck or High Water!

A few thoughts after putting the wraps on the first week of the CCDC Summer Intensive: if dancing 9-to-5, five days a week aren't enough for ya'! Or, if you have to work during the day, optional Sunday class resumes this weekend! Otherwise rest up! Back at it again on Monday! And, evening classes resume next week as well!

06.10.2008: Back From The Kingdom of the Shades!

Sorry for taking so long to get back to posting. Insert usual excuses here about moving into and out of theater for run of "La Bayadere...And More!" this weekend and, then, we went right into kicking off the 2008 Capital City Dance Center Sizzlin' Summer o' Dance! this week! But, before we put the 2007-2008 school year into the rear-view mirror, here's a little something I overheard on the headset while running the sound board at the theater (And, huge kudos to Marisol's rich Dad for providing the superior sound equipment we used this year! Humongous improvement over the Pratt-fall we suffered last year!):

"So, Nicole (light board operator), how does this dance school compare to the last one that was in here?"
"Well, these guys (CCDC!) are SO much better!"
"I meant how does the talent and training and quality compare?"
"That's what I meant! At least I don't get bored while watching these (CCDC!) dancers! ...I mean you can only watch so many animals go on board an ark before you start dozing off!"

06.10.2008: Giselle Unveiled

Got this a while back from the Capital City Dance Center graduate known only as Giselle:

"About three weeks before school ended, I performed in the University's Undergraduate Concert. Back in February, a girl who I always stood next to at barre asked me to be in a piece for her. She was taking Choreography II, and needed dancers for her final project. So we began working, having rehearsals about once a week, preparing to show the work in front of her class. As things progressed, she decided she wanted to audition her piece for this concert. There were two days of auditions, with over 22 pieces trying out in front of the professors. The professors gave critiques to choreographers and dancers, and then decided on nine pieces that would be performing for the concert. Honestly, we were all kind of shocked when we made it! Not only was this the choreographer's very first piece, three out of the four dancers were freshmen. All of us were unknowns in the dance department, and the professors commented on how it was nice to see new faces on stage. There were only two ballet pieces out of 22 in all that auditioned. We were the only ballet piece in the entire show.

We started rehearsing a lot more when we found out that we had made it. Realizing that we would be performing on a stage in front of people was a reality shock to everyone, especially because that was not what we intended to do when beginning work on the piece. When it came time for show week everyone was extremely nervous, mostly because we were the only ballet dancers in a cast of all modern dancers, and we were unknown freshmen. The four dancers in my piece sort of stuck together, making sure we had proper warm ups before performances even though we felt out of place doing barre in front of the modern dancers.

The piece itself was definitely not classical according to what I was used to, but very classical for the University Dance Department. We wore flat shoes and tan tights, with navy blue costumes (dresses). I loved it because it was very low-pressure compared to what I was used to dancing, and I remembered what a thrill it is to perform on stage! Overall, we got good feedback after our three performances; we received many compliments on the choreography and the dancing. The show itself was very cool because it was entirely run by students. Music, choreography, dancing, costumes, lighting, tech stuff, etc was all done by students in the dance department; the professors had very little involvement in the show itself. It was an awesome experience to be able to perform at the University; it was definitely something new! Hopefully, there will be more to come :)..."

06.03.2008: Tres Dotage!

And, a report from the rehearsal trail, an impressive start to the full run-throughs of La Bayadere last night. And, here's a call for more "elbow grease" and sweat equity! More volunteer help for set-up, production and break-down always appreciated! Just contact the office!...Okay, I've been complaining lately about not getting to know the dancer/contestants on Bravo's Step It Up And Dance series. Here's an interview with the guy I call the Tall Canadian at the PaperMag Website. That's the sort of stuff that should've been done leading up to the show...And, here's a link to the Movmnt Webzine where SYTYCD III Runner-up Danny T serves as artistic advisor. There's a video report there from another SYTYCD alum getting and giving reviews on the start of the latest season...And, I hope the SYTYCD producers read this or hear about this, I'm starting to fast-forward through the bad, indifferent and delusional dancers in the audition process. Let's see more good dancers and fewer for comic relief, please! (And, less predictable, plz! One good one followed by two or three head-slappers not a good ratio! 'Nuff "I dance from the heart!/"Well, how about dancing on stage!" or "Yes, I teach dance!"/"Well, you're robbing them blind!" back-and-forths already!)...Also, a heads up: Wednesday at 8pm locally on PBS Great Performances, a site-specific dance-oriented program from America's National Parks. Set those DVR's now!...

06.02.2008: Unsolicited Testimonial From Another Satisfied Customer!

From another mother:

"...We're so thankful for being part of CCDC this year. It's been a wonderful experience for (my daughter), and by comparison to the studio we attended last year, (she) has learned so much more about the art, culture and technique of ballet. We're thrilled, and I wanted you to know that I tell anyone who is looking for a quality dance studio and ballet experience for their child, I always tell them about CCDC. Thanks for all of your efforts! We look forward to continuing our dance experiences with you for years to come!"

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