No, I haven't fallen off the earth!!
I just wanted to take a little time out to let everyone know what I am up to these days. As most of you may have guessed, I am still dancing!!
I am very excited about the possibilities of Argentine Tango here in Atlanta. I currently have two strong classes in two locations. One class is at House of Tango ( www.houseoftango.com ).. and this class is designed for absolute beginners. Along with my friends Claudia, Nicolas and Jessica... we have a large, fun group of dancers. My other class is an advanced class and it is held at Atlanta Ballroom Dance Center. I think the classes are doing so well because I have very specific exercises for the students, that really help explain lead /follow and " marking ". Also, I always make an attempt to dance each step with every member of the class.. and I don't think anyone else in town offers that.
House of Tango, in my opinion has ENORMOUS potential. Right now we are still working on getting things set up, proper sound, pricing , website,schedule ect. Even with a few things a little off, we have been getting very good results. Everything is just right, we have hosts from Uruguay, ambiance, relaxed atmosphere, and a location in a "colorful" artistic neighborhood. We are also looking into incorporating occasional artistic performances from local artists .....Let's just say it's a lot more interesting that your average studio dance....
House of Tango
Beginners Class
Of course, I am still chasing my dream.. (first class competitive Ballroom Dancer)
I am still regularly practicing with my mom, 6 hours a week. This is still the core of my dancing, and very important to my training and progression. I am VERY thankful to have someone to dance with who is dedicated and easy to get along with.
Just recently I have started dancing with a professional partner. My partner, Stacie, is great... and we are trying to make the best of our situation. Stacie and I regularly practice on Fridays for about three hours. She drives from Montgomery Al. to Atlanta to dance with me, lot's of determination!
Her husband, Tim is in the military, and he had to relocate from Cali to Al. Unfortunately, they might have to move again.. so I might only get to dance with her for a short while.
Anyway, we may get to dance at the Heritage Classic... I don't think we'll be as prepared as we would like to be, but when are any of us ever prepared "enough"??
Darryl Silvers
Alex/Rita
For the past three years, I have been training with a coach named Terrance Levine. He is an older English transplant, who is VERY knowledgeable about Standard Ballroom. Due to financial problems, Terrance moved to Florida an a while, with plans to return to Atlanta.
So for the summer, until now, I have been practicing and trying to perfect the techniques given to me. This time has been very beneficial to me, allowing me time to "gel" everything in my mind.
During the " HOTLANTA" dance comp, I had a friend Nicole and her partner stay with me from Miami. They also brought along with them their coach... Darryl Silvers, who had just recently returned to the States from Japan. Darryl, had been living in Japan, teaching and competing in the world professional level.... British Open, Blackpool ect. And wouldn't you know it, his specialty is Standard.
This last week I brought Darryl here to Atlanta for training. I has been a great week! I've worked VERY hard this week, and so has Darryl. A friend of mine described his teaching style as being like a sculpture artist at work... interesting...
Well as things are now... I defiantly plan to bring Darryl back.. soon.
Ok, I guess that's enough for you guys now.
More later...
Alex Spencer