Sheer Dance 2018-11-01

Helen Arneson and Henry Cravens of Luther College Ballroom Swing dance at Minnesota Ballroom Blast. Photo by Minnesota Ballrom Blast Photography Team.

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• 1 NOV 2018

[Get Dancing]

In This Issue

SHEERDANCE.COM

Photo by Minnesota Ballroom Blast Photograpy Team.

[Get Dancing] Upcoming Competitions

3

Twin Cities Dance Events

4

Twin Cities Dance Contacts

5

[From the Community] At the Dance Floor’s Edge

10

The Show Must Go On!

12

[Special Features] The Essence of Ballroom

14

Fall First Impressions

16

Getting Back in the Swing of Things

18

Minnesota Ballroom Blast

20

A Bountiful Harvest

22

[Recurring Columns] Follow the Leader

24

Studio Spotlight

27

Staying Present

30

On the Radio

31

Volunteer Spotlight

33

Volunteer Report

35

Results from Around the Country

37

Brought to You By U Partner Dance, Inc. and:

Advertisers Dance Fest, Dance With Us America, Dancers Studio, Grand Jete, Lisa Vogel Galvin, Mariusz Olszewski, Mill City Ballroom, Minnesota Ballroom Blast, Neli Petkova and Woodrow Wills, Rapit Printing, RDM Insurance, Shane Meuwissen, Sheer Dance, Studio Jeff, Theresa Kimler

Photographers Celisia Stanton, Dance Fest Photography Team, Minnesota Ballroom Blast Photography Team, National Collegiate DanceSport Championships Photography Team

Writers Omar Abdelfatah, Kaylee Anderson, Miller Balley, Dan Bellandi, Katie from The Girl with the Tree Tattoo, Ames Olson, Kai Petersen, Emily Pofahl, Chris Trask, Taylor Wall, Miriam Ziven

SHEERDANCE.COM [Get Dancing]

Upcoming Competitions

Sections Discussion This is a forum where people

1 NOV 2018 •

Events labeled NQE are qualifying events for the USA Dance National DanceSport Championships.

are invited to express their true

California State Dancesport Championships - NQE

feelings about issues in the dance

community (while still adhering

Oakland, CA; usadance-norcal.org/1

to our submission guidelines) and

The Snow Ball

propose solutions to the problems we often face. Statements made in the Discussion section do not necessarily reflect the views of Sheer Dance, even when written by one of our volunteer staff.

From the Community Unlike the other sections, there is no cohesive theme to From the Community; it is a catch-all for the unique gems that are submitted by people like you.

Here you’ll find contributions like event recaps, interviews, tales from a far-off competition, and photos from a local dance event.

Recurring Columns We have a handful of generous writers who contribute regularly.

Each explores a unique, overarching theme of their choice. Each month, in a volunteer report, one of our volunteers fills you in on what they’ve been doing to make the dance community a better place.

Special Features Some issues focus on a particular event or theme, and all content relevant to that theme belongs to the Special Features section. E

December 1, 2018 January 11 - 13

Minneapolis, MN; thesnowballcomp.com

Southeastern Dancesport Championships - NQE

January 25 - 27, 2019

Birmingham, AL; www.dancesportgames.com

Royal Palm Dancesport Championships - 2019 NQE

Feburary 9, 2019

Fort Lauderdale, FL; royalpalmdancesport.org

Mid-Atlantic Championships

Feburary 22 - 24

Bethesda, MD

U Dance Fest St. Paul, MN; www.udancefest.com E

March 2-3, 2019

•3

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• 1 NOV 2018

November 1 • Thursday Tango Desperados Practica-2507 E 25th St., Mpls.; 7:30-9:30 p.m.; $5 Swing Social-Wabasha Street Caves; 215 Wabasha St. S., St. Paul; lesson 6-7 p.m., dance 7-10 p.m.; $8 cash only Swing & Lindy Hop Social-301 Main St. NE, Mpls.; EC Swing 7-8:15 p.m.; Lindy Hop 8:15-9:30 p.m.; $9, $7 Students Late Night Swing-301 Main St. NE, Mpls.; 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m.; $6, $4 Students Variety Dance-Dancers Studio; 415 Pascal St. N, St. Paul; 8-9:30 p.m.; $5 Milonga Cambalache-Monkon Sushi; 394 University Ave W, St Paul; 6:30 dinner, 7-10 p.m. dance; $5

November 2 • Friday

Milonga a mil-Triune Masonic Temple; 1898 Iglehart Avenue, St. Paul; 7 p.m.-12 a.m.; $10, $5 students West Coast Swing Dance-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; dance 8 p.m.; Salsa Dance-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; $10 Variety Dance-DanceLife; 4444 West 76th St., Suite 250, Edina; 8-9:30 p.m.; $10 Halloween Party-Cinema Ballroom; 1560 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; 7-11 p.m.; $10, $6 Students

November 3 • Saturday

Salsa Dance-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; $10 Milonga en el Alma-Four Seasons Dance Studio; 1637 Hennepin Ave., S., Mpls.; 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m.

Dance Social-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; dance 8 p.m.; $5 TCSwing: First Saturday Swing Dance-301 Main St. NE, Mpls.; 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m.; $6, $4 Students

November 4 • Sunday

Rogue Tango-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; 6-9 p.m.

TC Rebels 1st Sunday Dance-DanceLife; 4444 West 76th St., Suite 250, Edina; 7 p.m.-10:30 p.m.; $11, $7 Students Ballroom Dance Party-Tapestry; 3748 Minnehaha Ave., Mpls.; 6:00 lesson, dance 7-9:30 p.m.; $10, $7 Students

November 5 • Monday

Patty & The Buttons Live Jazz-125 Main St. S.E., Mpls.; 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; free Tango Desperados Practica-2507 E 25th St., Mpls.; 7:30-9:30 p.m.; $ Hallelujah Dance Party-DanceLife; 4444 West 76th St., Suite 250, Edina; 7-9:30 p.m.; $15

November 6 • Tuesday

Tuesday Milonga-3142 1st Ave S. Mpls.; 9-11:30 p.m.; $5 or what you can afford

November 7 • Wednesday

Rhythm Junction Lindy Hop-Four Seasons; 1637 Hennepin Ave., S., Mpls.; 8-11 p.m.; $6 Practice Party- Cinema Ballroom; 1560 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; 8-9 p.m.; $10, $6 Students Country Dance Social-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; lessons 7:30, dance 8 p.m.

Social Dancing-Fallout Arts Co-op Studio; 2601 2nd Ave. S. Mpls.; 9-11 p.m.

November 8 • Thursday

Swing Night-Lee’s Liquor Lounge; 101 Glenwood Ave., Mpls.; 8 p.m. lesson, live music 9 p.m.-12 a.m.

Swing Social-Wabasha Street Caves; 215 Wabasha St. S., St. Paul; lesson 6-7 p.m., dance 7-10 p.m.; $8 cash only Late Night Swing-301 Main St. NE, Mpls.; 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m.; $6, $4 Students

[Get Dancing]

SHEERDANCE.COM

Twin Cities Dance Events Variety Dance-Dancers Studio; 415 Pascal St. N, St. Paul; 8-9:30 p.m.; $5

November 9 • Friday

Salsa Dance-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; $10 Milonga Costa Norte-Four Seasons Dance Studio; 1637 Hennepin Ave., S., Mpls.; 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m.; $10, $5 students Variety Dance-DanceLife; 4444 West 76th St., Suite 250, Edina; 8-9:30 p.m.; $10 Line Dance Party-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; lessons 7 p.m., dance 8 p.m.;

November 10 • Saturday

2nd-Saturday Milonga-Triune Masonic Temple; 1898 Iglehart Avenue, St. Paul; lesson 8:30 p.m., dance 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m.; $10, $5 Students Salsa Dance-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; $8 Dance Social-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; 8 p.m.

Spring Hanger Dance-TC Swing; 310 Airport Rd, South St Paul; lesson 7 p.m., dance 8 p.m.-12 a.m.; $17 Practica-Flying Pig Dance Studio-6232 Lyndale Ave S, Mpls.; 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; $8

November 11 • Sunday

Rogue Tango-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; 6-9 p.m.

Ballroom Music Party with Jerry O’Hagen-Cinema Ballroom; 1560 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; lesson 6:15 p.m., dance 7-10 p.m.; $12, $8 students

November 12 • Monday

Patty & The Buttons Live Jazz-125 Main St. S.E., Mpls.; 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; free Tango Desperados Practica-2507 E 25th St., Mpls.; 7:30-9:30 p.m.; $

November 13 • Tuesday

Tuesday Milonga-3142 1st Ave S. Mpls.; 9-11:30 p.m.; $5 or what you can afford November 14 • Wednesday Rhythm Junction Lindy Hop-Four Seasons; 1637 Hennepin Ave., S., Mpls.; 8-11 p.m.; $6 Practice Party- Cinema Ballroom; 1560 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; 8-9 p.m.; $10, $6 Students Country Dance Social-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; lesson 7:30, dance 8 p.m.

Social Dancing-Fallout Arts Co-op Studio; 2601 2nd Ave. S. Mpls.; 9-11 p.m.

November 15 • Thursday

Swing Night-Lee’s Liquor Lounge; 101 Glenwood Ave., Mpls.; 8 p.m. lesson, live music 9 p.m.-12 a.m.

Hallelujah Dance Party-DanceLife; 4444 West 76th St., Suite 250, Edina; 7-9:30 p.m.; $15 Variety Dance-Dancers Studio; 415 Pascal St. N, St. Paul; 8-9:30 p.m.; $5 Swing Social-Wabasha Street Caves; 215 Wabasha St. S., St. Paul; lesson 6-7 p.m., dance 7-10 p.m.; $8 cash only Late Night Swing-301 Main St. NE, Mpls.; 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m.; $6, $4 Students

November 16 • Friday

Puro Tango Milonga-Four Seasons Dance Studio; 1637 Hennepin Ave., S., Mpls.; 9:30 p.m.-12 a.m.; $10 Swing & Lindy Hop Social-301 Main St. NE, Mpls.; EC Swing 7-8:15 p.m.; Lindy Hop 8:15-9:30 p.m.; $9, $7 Students

Variety Dance-DanceLife; 4444 West 76th St., Suite 250, Edina; 8-9:30 p.m.; $10 Salsa Dance-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; $10 WCS Party-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd,. Eagan; lesson begins 7:30 p.m.

Friday Night Fever-Cinema Ballroom; 1560 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; 7 p.m. night club 2-step & hustle lesson; dance 8-11 p.m.; $10, $6 Students

November 17 • Saturday

Alternative Tango-T’ai-Chi Ch’uan Studio; University Avenue, Suite 207 St. Paul,; p.m.-1 a.m.; $10 Salsa Dance-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th S.E, Mpls.; $8 Dance Social-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Eagan; 8 p.m.

2242 9:30 Ave., Rd.,

November 18 • Sunday

Rogue Tango-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; 6-9 p.m.

TC Rebels 3rd Sunday Dance-DanceLife; 4444 West 76th St., Suite 250, Edina; 7 p.m.-10:30 p.m.; $11, $7 Students Ballroom Dance Party-Tapestry; 3748 Minnehaha Ave., Mpls.; 6:00 lesson, dance 7-9:30 p.m.; $10, $7 Students

November 19 • Monday

Patty & The Buttons Live Jazz-125 Main St. S.E., Mpls.; 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; free Ballroom Dance Party-Tapestry; 3748 Minnehaha Ave., Mpls.; 6:00 lesson, dance 7-9:30 p.m.; $10, $7 Students Tango Desperados Practica-2507 E 25th St., Mpls.; 7:30-9:30 p.m.; $5

November 20 • Tuesday

Tuesday Milonga-3142 1st Ave S. Mpls.; 9-11:30 p.m.; $5 or what you can afford

November 21 • Wednesday

Rhythm Junction Lindy Hop-Four Seasons; 1637 Hennepin Ave., S., Mpls.; 8-11 p.m.; $6 Practice Party- Cinema Ballroom; 1560 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; 8-9 p.m.; $10, $6 Students Country Dance Social-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; lesson 7:30, dance 8 p.m.

Social Dancing-Fallout Arts Co-op Studio; 2601 2nd Ave. S. Mpls.; 9-11 p.m.

November 22 • Thursday

Variety Dance-Dancers Studio; 415 Pascal St. N, St. Paul; 8-9:30 p.m.; $5 Swing Social-Wabasha Street Caves; 215 Wabasha St. S., St. Paul; lesson 6-7 p.m., dance 7-10 p.m.; $8 cash only Late Night Swing-301 Main St. NE, Mpls.; 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m.; $6, $4 Students

November 23 • Friday

Mala Yunta Milonga-Four Seasons Dance Studio; 1637 Hennepin Ave., S., Mpls.; 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m.; $10, $5 Students Line Dance Party-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; 8 p.m.

Variety Dance-DanceLife; 4444 West 76th St., Suite 250, Edina; 8-9:30 p.m.; $10 Salsa Fusion-Cinema Ballroom; 1560 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; Salsa & Cha Cha lesson 7 p.m, dance 8-11 p.m Salsa Dance-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; $8 Purple Rain Ballroom Showcase-Dancers Studio; 415 Pascal St. N, St. Paul; 7-11 p.m.

SHEERDANCE.COM [Get Dancing]

November 24 • Saturday Dance Social-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; 8 p.m.

Salsa Dance-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; $10 Tango con~Fusion-The Flying Pig; 6232 Lyndale Ave S, Richfield; lesson 9 p.m., dance 9:30 p.m.-1:00 a.m.

November 25 • Sunday

Rogue Tango-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; 6-9 p.m.

Ballroom Music Party with Jerry O’Hagen-Cinema Ballroom; 1560 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; lesson 6:15 p.m., dance 7-10 p.m.; $12, $8 students

November 26 • Monday

Rhythm Junction Lindy Hop-Four Seasons; 1637 Hennepin Ave., S., Mpls.; 8-11 p.m.; $6 Tango Desperados Practica-2507 E 25th St., Mpls.; 7:30-9:30 p.m.; $5

November 27 • Tuesday

Tuesday Milonga-3142 1st Ave S. Mpls.; 9-11:30 p.m.; $5 or what you can afford

November 28 • Wednesday

Practice Party-Cinema Ballroom; 1560 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; 8-9 p.m.; $10, $6 Students Social Dancing-Fallout Arts Co-op Studio; 2601 2nd Ave. S. Mpls.; 9-11 p.m.

Country Dance Social-Starks Saloon; 3125 Dodd Rd., Eagan; lesson 7:30, dance 8 p.m.

November 29 • Thursday

Variety Dance-Dancers Studio; 415 Pascal St. N, St. Paul; 8-9:30 p.m.; $5 Swing Social-Wabasha Street Caves; 215 Wabasha St. S., St. Paul; lesson 6-7 p.m., dance 7-10 p.m.; $8 cash only Late Night Swing-301 Main St. NE, Mpls.; 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m.; $6, $4 Students

November 30 • Friday

Salsa Dance-Loring Pasta Bar; 327 14th Ave., S.E, Mpls.; $10 Variety Dance-DanceLife; 4444 West 76th St., Suite 250, Edina; 8-9:30 p.m.; $10

1 NOV 2018 •

•5

Twin Cities Dance Contacts Studios

American Classic Ballroom

952.934.0900

Instructors

Scott Anderson

612.816.4446

Ballroom & Wedding Dance Studio 612.371.0300

Nathan Daniels Donna Edelstein

763.464.1021 612.910.2690

Bloomington Ballroom

952.392.9631

Jennifer & Robert Foster

952.239.2984 Shane Haggerty 612.702.3588

1495 Steiger Lk Ln, Victoria 55386 www.acballroom.com

2717 42nd Street E, Minneapolis www.myballroomdancestudio.com

3701 W Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington www.bloomingtonballroom.com

Cinema Ballroom

651.699.5910

scottadance@gmail.com www.scottadance.com

donna@donnaedelstein.com www.donnaedelstein.com

shanehaggerty@hotmail.com www.shanehaggertydance.com

Julie Jacobson Yulia Kornilova

651.261.6442 708.506.2697

816 Mainstreet, Hopkins www.costaricaballroom.com

Jay Larson Monica Mohn

651.387.3886 612.874.0747

2625 Hwy 14 West Suite E, Rochester www.dahldance.com

Mariusz Olszewski 612.242.5159

1560 St. Clair Ave, St. Paul www.cinemaballroom.com

Costa Rica Ballroom Dance Studios 952.303.3339 Dahl Dance Center 507.252.1848 Dance and Entertainment

651.605.5784 www.danceandentertainment.com

Dance with Us America

612.564.5483 10 Southdale Center, Edina www.dancewithusamerica.com

DanceLife Ballroom 612.345.4219 4444 W 76th Street Suite 200, Edina dancelifeballroom@gmail.com www.dancelifeballroom.com

Dancers Studio

415 Pascal Street N, St. Paul www.dancersstudio.com

651.641.0777

Duende Dance Studio

612.805.3516 5808R W 36th Street, Saint Louis Park www.dancewithduende.com

Four Seasons Dance Studio

612.342.0902 1637 Hennepin Ave S, Minneapolis www.fourseasonsdance.com

Fred Astaire Dance Studio South Metro 651.451.6300 1975 Seneca Rd #700, Eagan www.fredastairemn.com

Latin Mambo

612.558.7190

2948 Chicago Ave S #308, Minneapolis www.latinmambodancestudio.com

Mill City Ballroom 612.562.2733 www.millcityballroom.com

nMotion

651.357.2060

7988 Universtiy Ave NE, Fridley www.awakeneddance.com

StudioJeff

320.266.4137

Uptown Swing

612.217.1087

The Flying Pig

612.598.1094

701 St. Germain Street W, Suite 201, St. Cloud www.studiojeff.com 1617 North 2nd Street, Minneapolis www.uptownswing.net 6232 Lyndale Ave S, Rhichfield www.tfpstudio.com

yulia.v.kornilova@gmail.com

monicamohn@juno.com www.monicamohn.com olmariusz@aol.com

Karin Rice Lisa Vogel

612.242.2188 651.208.0818

Miriam Ziven

847-340-6854

lmvogel27@gmail.com miriam.ziven@gmail.com

Clubs

LaDanza Dance Club

651.439.3152 facebook.com/LaDanzaDanceClub

Loring Pasta Bar

612.378.4849

327 14th Avenue Southeast, Minneapolis lpbtestingdomain.info

MN West Coast Swing Dance Club info@mwcsdc.com www.mwcsdc.com

Tango Society of Minnesota

612.224.2905 www.mntango.org

Tapestry Folkdance Center

612.722.2914 www.tapestryfolkdance.org

TC Swing

info@tcswing.com www.tcswing.com

651.558.0562

Twin Cities REBELS Swing Dance Club 952.941.0906 www.tcrebels.com

University of Minnesota Ballroom Dance Club bdc@umn.edu umnbdc.com

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• 1 NOV 2018

[Participate]

Volunteer Openings Assignment Photographer If you love taking photos and exploring the partner-dancing world, throw in your hat to become an official Sheer Dance photographer!

This volunteer will be provided topics and events to cover with action-packed shots.

Assignment Writer

SHEERDANCE.COM

About Us Sheer Dance is a monthly independent publication that presents news and information relevant to the partner-dancing community in the central United States and the nation at large. It is intended to be an accessible outlet for members of the community to discuss their experi-

Love writing but never sure what to write

ences and opinions in a public forum.

about? We supply the topics every month; you

Published monthly, Sheer Dance is run

supply the articles. Excited, passionate writers

by a group of skilled volunteers with

with a thirst for exploration are encouraged to

extensive experience in creating and

consider volunteering for this position.

distributing successful partner-dance

Columnist

publications.

This magazine is meant to serve

We’re always looking for more people to

the community as a positive and uni-

commit to writing an article every month that

fying force by addressing the needs

addresses a particular idea or theme relevant

and desires of all groups within the

to partner dancing. You choose the topic!

community. Sheer Dance:

Copy Editor

• Provides amateurs with a conve-

We’re looking for a highly skilled linguist with an intimate understanding of American English spelling, punctuation, and grammar to do the first pass of line editing on all articles. This is a very involved role that provides excellent experience for anyone considering a career in publishing.

Your Contribution Here

nient way to share their dance experiences,

seek

advice

from

experts, and learn about events, services, and other opportunities in the wider ballroom community; • Provides professionals with direct access to their target audience, spreading

awareness

of

their

expertise, events, and services; and

Have an idea of how you could add value

• Provides the entire community

to Sheer Dance that we haven’t thought of ?

with a forum for discussion, coop-

Let us know! E

eration, and problem-solving.

Sheer Dance is made possible by the generous contributions of members of the community. If you enjoy reading this publication, please consider contributing an article or photos, making a donation, subscribing, or volunteering your time and skills.

The staff of Sheer Dance can be reached at info@sheerdance.com. We hope to hear from you! E

SHEERDANCE.COM [Participate]

1 NOV 2018 •

•7

Contribute Submission Guidelines

specific events, that cannot be their primary function;

Submissions are due to submissions@sheerdance.com by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Submissions received after the deadline may be used in the upcoming issue or may be saved for a later month. You may request a two-day extension if you include information regarding your topic.

they must have a broader applicability to enlightening the dance community. Articles must be respectful and productive. Harassment of any kind will not be published, nor will articles that fall below Contradiction on the scale of productive argumentation.

Refuting the Central Point

Explicitly refutes the central point

Content is published at the discretion of Sheer Dance based on the policies outlined below. It is our goal to

Refutation

publish all of the content submitted to us in the issue for which it was submitted. Any rejected advertisement or

Counterargument

Contradicts and then backs it up with reasoning and/or supporting evidence

Contradiction

States the opposing case with little or no supporting evidence

article will come with communication on how it could be edited to be appropriate for publication, with a deadline extension when possible to allow time to effect the Responding to Tone

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Contact ads@sheerdance.com for more information.

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We print at 300 dpi and accept PDF, PNG, and JPEG file types. When buying a larger advertising package, you may

Finds the mistake and explains why it’s mistaken using quotes

Editing Policy Content submitted to Sheer Dance will be edited for spelling, grammar, sentence structure, style, and appro-

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Price Per Ad

Price for 12 Consecutive Months

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services are all subject to removal. Content that serves

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no appropriate purpose will not be published.

Photos When selecting photos to include in the magazine, we try to feature different dancers in each picture, when possible. We look for photos with good lighting, a clear focus, and smiling dancers who are actively dancing.

Articles All articles must be clearly relevant to partner dancing. There are no length requirements or limits, but Sheer Dance may break up longer articles across multiple issues when appropriate. While articles may promote

priateness of content.

Any kind of bigotry, inappropriate religious or political statements, name-calling, verifiably untrue statements, unreasonable and unverifiable claims, and unpaid content that only serves to advertise goods or

If you are dissatisfied with any edits made by Sheer Dance, you are welcome and encouraged to compose a Letter to the Editor, which, so long as it meets the submission guidelines, will be posted in the Discussion section of the subsequent issue with a response from Sheer Dance. Sheer Dance retains the right to discontinue public editorial discussions when they no longer add value for the dance community at large, though private exchanges may still be relevant. E

8•

• 1 NOV 2018

[Volunteer Team]

SHEERDANCE.COM

Volunteer Team Taylor Wall

Olivia Wicker

A lifelong dancer, Taylor started ballroom dancing with the University

Olivia is a fresh face in dance and design. A life-long martial artist,

of Minnesota Ballroom Dance Club. She has been volunteering in the

her love of competitive sports and artistic creation drew her to study

Minnesota dance community since 2011, where she is a board member

kinesiology and graphic design at the University of Minnesota. Now

of U Partner Dance and Volunteer Coordinator for the local amateur

she’s enjoying the adventure of ballroom dancing. She designs and

competitions Dance Fest and Minnesota Ballroom Dance. Taylor over-

develops the layout, graphic elements, and content of Sheer Dance and

sees production of Sheer Dance from beginning to end each month,

guides creative decisions.

EDITOR IN CHIEF

DESIGNER

working closely with the acquisitions, editing, and design teams to craft an exciting and interesting magazine you can look forward to reading each month! Email her at info@sheerdance.com.

Uzo Wamuo

Theresa Kimler

Uzo Wamuo is a student at the University of Minnesota with a

A seven-time USA Dance open smooth champion, nine-time rhythm

Neuroscience major and a Spanish minor. He is on the University of

champion, and four-time nine-dance champion, Theresa is an

Minnesota Ballroom Dance Competition Team and is an avid dancer

undisputed, long-standing champion of dance. Mechanical engineer

who loves going out for social dances and meeting new people. Uzo was

by education, black-belt project manager, owner of Total Project

born and raised in Plymouth, MN with his parents, his older brother

Consulting, and lover of quadrupeds, Theresa graciously lends her

and twin brother and enjoys spending his past time playing piano,

expertise to Sheer Dance for the betterment of the dance community as

cooking, and playing video games.

our Subscription Coordinator.

Jonathan Wolfgram

Alexzandra Enger

Jonathan is the Vice-President of the University of Minnesota Ballroom

When she’s not busy dancing, volunteering, or studying, Alex will

Dance Club and serves the Sheer team as advertising editor and

likely be found—coffee in hand—spending time with her friends,

columnist. Although his athletic background is in martial arts, he fell

conquering video games, discovering new music, and whipping up

in love with dance when he moved to the Twin Cities and joined the

delicious meals and desserts. She wants to travel the world, dance

UMNBDC Competitive Team his freshman year. He is studying Finance

as often as she can, and be happy. As Acquisitions Editor of Sheer

and the Philosophy of Mathematics and is very excited to apply himself

Dance, Alex is responsible for gathering all content for the magazine.

to helping the greater ballroom dance community.

If you’ve got articles or photos to share, send them to Alexzandra at

COMMUNITY LIAISON

ADVERTISING EDITOR

SUBSCRIPTION COORDINATOR

ACQUISITIONS EDITOR

submissions@sheerdance.com.

Kaylee Anderson

Paris Becker

Kaylee is a recent graduate of the University of Minnesota, and was a

Paris has a diverse background in dance that spans more than 20 years.

part of their Ballroom Dance Competition Team for three years. She

When she is not dancing, Paris is usually spending time with friends

is thrilled to be an essential part of Sheer Dance’s team and to gain

and family, watching a sitcom, or showing off pictures of her pets (they

experience in the field of copy editing, putting her knack for grammar

are really cute). As a graduate of the University of Minnesota, she is

to good use in her monthly column.

excited to put her writing and grammar skills to good use as a Copy

COPY EDITOR

COPY EDITOR

Editor for Sheer Dance.

Emily Pofahl

ACQUISITIONS ASSISTANT Emily Pofahl is a sophomore at the University of Minnesota, double-majoring in Journalism and Theatre Arts. Emily started dancing at the age of three as physical therapy, and never stopped. In her free time, she reads, makes coffee, and spends time with friends. Emily is so excited to join Sheer’s team, and is grateful for how much the experience is teaching her about professional journalism.

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10 •

• 1 NOV 2018

[FROM THE COMMUNITY]

SHEERDANCE.COM

At the Dance Floor’s Edge

Dancing and #MeToo, Maleness, Privilege, and Solidarity

BY DAN BELLANDI

I

social

them while acknowledging that I can

can never grasp the wariness a woman

dance the night after a woman, in

never truly appreciate how they feel.

must learn to develop when she is

striking and compelling testimony,

Perhaps there was a part of me that

approached on the street, finds herself

told a nation of her sexual assault. I

hoped to simply be appreciated for my

alone with a man she does not know

was appalled at her treatment and dis-

empathy, reassured that I was a good

well (or as well as she thought), or just

mayed at our stunningly slow progress

guy, and congratulated on my “woke-

walks alone to her car at night. We live

as a society. Women I know—friends

ness”. But one of them, my dance

in a culture that still conditions men

and family—spoke of the triggering

instructor and friend, talked with me

to feel entitled to women’s bodies and

of their own traumas, their anger, and

for several hours, offered trenchant

conditions women to first consider the

perhaps most dishearteningly, their

insight, and challenged me to do more.

male ego, and only then look to their

recently

attended

a

lack of surprise at the way the events

Like

most

men,

for

me

the

own comfort.

unfolded. I found myself nearly over-

ever-present awareness that another

One need never look too hard to

whelmed both by my desire to empa-

person could force physical contact

see this play out while dancing. I have

thize and my sense of helplessness that

against my wishes is utterly foreign. I

often watched men become mean and

I could do so meaningfully.

As I danced and socialized that night I considered all of this in the context of the dance community. I remember the conflict I felt when I took up dancing and the feeling that I would be perpetuating a gender dynamic I oppose. I disliked the image I had where, regardless of the kind of dance, women sat passively as the men roved and selected one of them (or not). I did not want to be in the position of choosing one woman over another. I am still embarrassed by a time when I was too imprecise in my invitation to one of two women seated together and they both accepted. Here I would also like to thank and applaud the women who have asked me to dance—I think this is great. So, too, does it cheer me to see, regardless of sexual preference, women dancing with women and the much rarer men dancing with men.

In the following days, I listened to several women whom I admire as they shared their thoughts when I asked how I can best express solidarity with

Photo by Minnesota Ballrom Blast Photography Team.

SHEERDANCE.COM [From the Community]

1 NOV 2018 •

• 11

act rudely to a woman that declined

with the pretty, the young, or the best

over a period of several years by an

their request to dance. Every woman

dancers, you should ask yourself what

older boy who babysat me. But on and

I know has related such encounters.

you are looking for and what you are

around the dance floor, like so many

Women have pointed out to me men

bringing to your partner. Be wary, too,

places in the world, it is the actions of

who held them too inappropriately

of a desire to impress your partner by

men that make women feel unsafe.

or were overly touchy. When I talk to

critiquing or teaching new skills and

I am white, straight, and male. I

such a woman I find myself quick to

neglecting the opportunity for simply

think a lot about privilege and what it

sympathize and eager to signal how I, a

appreciating a shared dance.

means. Perhaps nothing embodies my

progressive champion, find that behav-

I would hope that for all of us our

privilege better than this: I can remain

ior repellent. But I never discuss it with

interest in our partner’s enjoyment

personally unaffected by harassment

the men who acted wrongly.

and comfort is equal to that in our

and inequality while avoiding any

We often touch our dance partners,

own. Social dancing is at its best when

discomfort that may follow from con-

some of whom we barely know or have

people can find all sorts of different

fronting those who mistreat others. I

just met, closer and more intimately

reasons to appreciate their partners. I

can feel good about my desire for social

than we do anyone, except those to

know I like to think that for my part-

justice while doing very little to truly

whom we are closest. It is natural to

ner my friendly smile and (possibly

advance it.

enjoy the touch and closeness that

imagined) charm will at least temper

comes from dancing with another per-

my questionable skill and my frequent

actively

son. It is not wrong to find your dance

deviations from the beat.

women. I hope to have the courage to

I will be challenging myself to make

dancing

safer

for

partner physically attractive, nor to find

This is not purely a gender issue.

call out another man when I see them

that may enhance your enjoyment. But

Many men have their own #MeToo sto-

act inappropriately. When a woman

if you find that you only want to dance

ries—as a child I was sexually abused

tells me of such behavior I will listen and express a desire to respond, and then listen to her thoughts. Critically, I will only proceed if she is comfortable.

I know it will be hard and awkward, but I also know it will be worthwhile.

So I invite my fellow men to do more as well and that we encourage each other so that we can make dancing safer, more respectful, and ultimately more fun for all.

And let’s not stop our efforts at the dance floor’s edge. Being aware of your privilege is good. Realizing that privilege should confer a duty to act is great. Actually acting for positive change is so much better. E

12 •

• 1 NOV 2018

[From the Community]

SHEERDANCE.COM

Photo by Minnesota Ballrom Blast Photography Team.

head veil draped with shiny gold coins.

The Show Must Go On!

The next song was upbeat and by Abdel

Our Star Performer Cancels

Kader, with Rachid Taha and Faudel.

BY CHRIS TRASK

with the zills.The last song was “Aicha”

I kept the same outfit on and danced which is a story about a young man pursuing a girl who wants to shower

Two dance

weeks prior to our belly

routine. We discovered that we were

her with riches and jewels, but all she

event

having great fun creating a belly dance

wants is the respect and freedom that

program together.

he has as a man. It is a dreamy, slow

at

the

Riverstone

Community in Florida, our star performer cancelled. What would we do

With Sally’s educational and musi-

song, which I danced to with a veil. I

now? Our great problem-solver and

cal background as well as her expertise

was dressed in fuschia Arabian pants

bohemian-dressed

director,

in foreign languages, she provided the

and a matching shiny gold-coined top.

Nancy Russo-West, began contacting

introductory commentary to the back-

My fuchsia veil was edged with gold,

other performers with no success. We

ground history of the performance.

and my auburn hair was decorated

looked at each other with disappoint-

She also emphasized the benefits belly

with pink jewels.

ment on our faces. “I will volunteer

dancing promotes for your mind, body,

At the end of the performance,

to do the performance for free,” I said

and spirit. Nancy coordinated the food,

I demonstrated a few belly dancing

with determination.

which consisted of lemon oregano

skills for the audience and had them

lifestyle

I am an amateur belly dancer of

chicken, tzatziki dip, Greek salad, and

show their emotional expressions to

only two months, mind you, but I fig-

Baklava. With a corrected announce-

the music by belly dancing. Our “no

ured with my eight years of ballroom

ment and new program freshly printed,

show” turned out to be great fun! The

experience and taking a top gold solo

we ended up with around twenty-five

show did go on with the help of Nancy,

award last year for Viennese Waltz, I

residents as our audience.

Marsha, and Sally. We left our audience

thought, “Why not try it?”

I did three solos acts from the music

with words of encouragement to share

of “Khaled, The King of Rai.” The first

their creativity with the community

teacher, Sally Kube, to help me put the

one

belly

and start a talent show. We also gave

program together. I also had my dear

movements to a song called ”Didi,”

them information as to where they

dance friend, Marsha Wilchfort, view

which means “quick, silly, gullible

could take belly dancing classes!

the performance prior to the show so

girl, who is a great friend to all.” I was

I could make any adjustments to the

dressed in a sky blue Arabian skirt and

I called my dear friend and retired

emphasized

shimmying

Have a Nice Holiday Season! E

udancefest.com facebook.com/udancefest

9

14 •

• 1 NOV 2018

[Special Features]

The Essence of Ballroom

BY OMAR ABDELFATAH

SHEERDANCE.COM

have which will help their learning and understanding. These chunks do not come in any particular order; I allow them take their natural flow, as determined by the room and the dancers.

I have been a ballroom dancer for a little over three years now, and this is

Finally, the cherries on top are time beautiful. Simply put: it is art at its

and patience. As already mentioned,

truest and finest form.

this whole new world and experience

the second semester where I have been

As poetic as that sounds, this

will not come quickly to the newcom-

given the opportunity to teach the new-

is so much easier said than done.

ers, and so it is very important to be

comers for the University of Minnesota

Understanding is only the first step of

patient and careful not to discourage

Ballroom Dance Competition Team.

learning how to do it. If I have learned

them when they make mistakes. If they

Like most of the people who join our

one thing in the last three years, it is

understand what they need to do, but

competition team, I never did any ball-

that your brain will learn things way

don’t do it, then they still took steps

room dancing before I joined. I actually

faster than your body can implement

forward. So I always encourage them

never did any sort of dance, music,

them. That is why when I teach,

by saying something along the lines

or performance sport; I used to play

the most important thing for me is

of “Good job! You’re already doing

tennis, volleyball, and a bit of soccer.

whether the newbies understand what

so much better. It looks like you’re

Needless to say, the transition from

ballroom is and what it should feel like.

getting the hang of it.” Then I can add

these sports to ballroom dancing was

I could stand there and show them the

“Keep working on and it’ll look even

quite the experience. In my opinion,

basic steps for every dance and grind

better, and don’t forget to ,” and then

the hardest aspect was wrapping my

the technique with them, but if they

I wrap it up again by saying “Good job

mind around the essence of ballroom

do not understand the true essence

though--keep it up!” And so whether

dancing: its elegance and gracefulness,

behind what they are doing, then I did

you’re a newbie (or starting to teach

the fact that it is partnership dancing

not do my job. This is why I always try

some), the transition into this new and

but you only need to dance yourself,

to find the perfect balance of splitting

magical world may be difficult but it is

and that it is an aesthetic sport all

the lesson into chunks: demonstrating

very rewarding. Forgive yourself when

about the showbiz. I believe that, once

technique and having them apply it;

you make mistakes and just try to wrap

I was able to understand these things,

me explaining what we are doing, how

your mind around the true essence

my grasp of ballroom and my ability to

to do it, and why we are doing; and

of ballroom dancing. E

learn significantly improved.

them asking me any questions they

Now, I am trying to transfer that knowledge to the newbies. Needless to say, it comes more naturally to people who have danced or performed before, as opposed to those who, like me, did not. I find that an effective way to convey the essence of ballroom is to describe what it is not. It is not an objective sport. It is not performing a specific action with a guaranteed result. It is not the lead controlling the follow’s movement. So what is ballroom? It is magical. It is spontaneous.

It is the lead translating the music into their body’s physical actions. It is the follow complementing the lead to create something bigger and more

Narra Moreen and Omar Abdelfatah. Photo by Dance Fest Photography Team.

Learn to Dance. Find Joy. For over 30 years, Dancers Studio has provided high-level dance instruction for all levels of dancer in the Twin Cities.

We have a wide variety of offerings in ballroom, latin and swing that are centered on achieving your dance goals.

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16 •

• 1 NOV 2018

[Special Features]

SHEERDANCE.COM

Fall First Impressions

BY AMES OLSON

I first heard of the University of

I approached the room and was greeted

You might expect that I was intimi-

Minnesota Ballroom Competitive Team

by a smiling dancer who welcomed me

dated by the team based on its status as

through an open house at the University

in and invited me to try out for the team

first in the nation when it comes to ball-

Recreation and Wellness Center during

this fall.

room dance, and the fact that I had only

my freshman welcome week. It was my

I was surprised by several things:

ever experimented with single swing

first day on campus after I moved in. I

incredible ballroom dancing displayed

before. On the contrary, the students

expected to see only exercise machines,

in a modern context by my peers,

on the team seemed very approachable,

weights, tracks and locker rooms, but in

experienced dancers inviting me to

and they assured me that I had a chance

one of the dance studios I saw a group

get involved with the team with little

to become as skilled as they were in

of young people in matching jackets

to no experience, and the talent that

ballroom dance.

who seemed to be floating across the

these young college students displayed

After attending some of the first free

hardwood floor, dancing to a popular

despite the fact that many of them had

lessons of the season, I found that I was

song that I heard recently on the radio.

no experience prior to college.

able to learn, with astounding speed, dances that I had only ever seen on Dancing with the Stars. I loved the atmosphere and the challenge of partner dancing with the team and decided to try out. I am so glad that I did because since I have been a member on the team, I can already tell that I will gain endless, valuable experiences from the dance lessons and my wonderful dance partners and teammates. It is where I am having the most fun in my first semester of college. I simply cannot wait to wow the judges on the dance floor at my first competition. E

Ames Olson. Photo by Celisia Stanton.

Woodrow Wills & Neli Petkova

Canadian Vice Champions in Professional International Ballroom WillsPetkova

www.nelipetkova.com

18 •

• 1 NOV 2018

[Special Features]

SHEERDANCE.COM

Getting Back in the Swing of Things

BY MILLER BALLEY

Preparing

for a competition is a

unique experience and it is different for everyone. It varies for each partnership; I know that it is even different between me and each of my partners.

Competition time is very exciting because it is a time to push yourself and polish what you have been practicing for so long. It is definitely my favorite part of the year because I am able to see the improvements I am making in my dancing as well as the improvements that my teammates are making.

Everyone’s dancing is at its peak and it is very enjoyable to watch.

The way I get myself in competition mode is by envisioning myself out on the floor performing. I imagine my choreography the way it should look and attempt to execute it to my best ability. In thinking of my performance, I especially focus on how I want my face to look because that is one of the things I struggle with the most. When I prepare to compete, I am sure to film my dancing so that I know what I look like at every moment. It is one thing to feel your dancing and an entirely differ-

Daniel Korus and Miller Balley. Photo by Dance Fest Photography Team.

ent thing to watch it. It is very exciting to view videos of my dancing with my partners and to see the improvements we have made.

Another part of competition preparation that I enjoy is the palpable excitement of my teammates. Everyone is getting ready to showcase what they’ve been working so hard on, and

most importantly to share the joy of

succeed. As we gear up to compete, we

dancing with others. Competitive dance

cheer each other on during practice and

is something very unique in that it is a

I think it builds a great energy between

performance art while simultaneously

us all. I cannot wait to get back into the

being a competitive sport. There is

swing of competing. E

nothing quite like it. I think our team is great because we want each other to

CODY ARNDTSON

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20 •

• 1 NOV 2018

Minnesota Ballroom Blast

PHOTOS BY MINNESOTA BALLROOM BLAST PHOTOGRAPHY TEAM

[Special Features]

SHEERDANCE.COM

SHEERDANCE.COM [Special Features]

1 NOV 2018 •

• 21

22 •

• 1 NOV 2018

[Special Features]

SHEERDANCE.COM

Rachel Schwartz and Kai Petersen. Photo by Dance Fest Photography Team.

there as well, is a craziness that is truly

A Bountiful Harvest

unique to ballroom. Once it was time to compete, I found myself overwhelmed

BY KAI PETERSEN

with that special feeling of a dance competition. A nice healthy blend of nerves, excitement, and itching to get both on had the priv-

possible, seeing what each of the dances

and off the floor to me are what sepa-

ilege of attending the Harvest Moon

can become. For example, there’s quite

rates a competition from everything

Ball in Chicago. After the long drive out

a big difference in the Cha-Cha I know

else in dance.

Saturday morning, myself and other U

and attempt to do and the Cha-Cha the

After a flurry of back to back rounds,

of MN students were fortunate enough

professional Rhythm champions are

the competition felt like it was over

to still catch a good portion of the eve-

doing. They are both Cha-Cha’s, but they

before you could say “stand up straight!”

ning/pro show. It was truly inspiring to

look vastly different and provide me

Then it was onto a video review with

watch some of the high level amateurs,

with some ideas on how I can improve

our coach and back to Minnesota. The

including some alumni and other famil-

my dancing.

whole weekend went by in a flash, but

This

past month

I

iar faces from the Minnesota dance

The day of our competition started

it was a great experience to have, and

community, and to watch some of the

early as per usual: 5:30am early. The

I hope to be returning to the Harvest

professional dancers compete as well.

frenzy of people getting dressed, doing

Moon Ball next Fall. Happy dancing! E

My favorite part about watching

hair and make-up as fast as possible,

high level dancing is witnessing what is

plus somehow trying to fit a breakfast in

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24 •

• 1 NOV 2018

[Recurring Columns]

SHEERDANCE.COM

Follow the Leader A Plea to the Ladies

BY KAYLEE ANDERSON

Ladies—please

dance with me!

When I’ve asked leads how they

Listen, I know I’m not your ideal

learn all the follow’s names but not

ballroom dude. I don’t have rippling

their fellow leads, the answer is

muscles or a perfectly-tamed coif,

simple—they only dance with the fol-

and I don’t know the first thing about

lows. So, the easiest way to make new

striking poses that would make lum-

friends is to practice my leading skills!

berjacks jealous. I definitely haven’t

Granted, I don’t make the best “ball-

Minnesota, and was a part of their Ballroom Dance

perfected my West Coast whip, I don’t

room boy,” and I greatly appreciate all

Competition Team for three years. She is thrilled

smell like sexy mountain aftershave, I

of the follows who have endured my

to be an essential part of Sheer Dance’s team and

wouldn’t be an editor’s first choice for

bad timing and less-than-gentle leads.

to gain experience in the field of copy editing,

a romance novel cover. I know this, and

I’ve found follows to be so patient and

putting her knack for grammar to good use in

still, I ask you to dance with me. Why

kind to me despite my misgivings, and

her monthly column.

do you look so surprised every time?

that’s another reason I’m so eager to

Kaylee is a recent graduate of the University of

I suppose this is addressed more to

offer my arm to the nearest lady. I want

the more mature ladies in the audi-

to learn to lead because I like seeing a

ence, not the follows fresh out of col-

smile on their face when I execute a

lege who have a firm grasp on gender

move well, and I love being a face they

fluidity and social power dynamics. I

can come back to for a pleasant time.

want to talk to the sweet retired ladies

If

we’re

addressing

the

mak-

who come to social dances hoping for

ing-friends aspect of switching dance

a romantic evening with a silver-haired

roles, I’d like to mention that I’d never

beau, or who want a night out with

really thought of the magnetic pull

their husbands. At social dances, there

that can emanate from a couple who

inevitably comes a time where even

are dancing together. They seem really

the busiest dancer will find themselves

into one another, not in a sexual way,

sitting on the sidelines awaiting a part-

perhaps, but in a caring, consensual,

ner. Why can’t a lady like me be your

and platonic manner. You can see the

charmer for the evening? I’m not look-

energy sparking from one life form

ing to seduce anyone, of course, but I

to another as they meld together, So

do want to make friends with more of

rarely do I see that gravitation between

my fellow follows.

two ladies, especially ones of differing

SHEERDANCE.COM [Recurring Columns]

1 NOV 2018 •

• 25

ages, but it can and does happen. Maybe

things that toe the line. I experience it

promised to lead me in this dance,”

same-sex partner dancing is something

almost every time I dance, sadly, and

and I will 100% go along with that even

people never thought could have that

I always appreciate it when someone

if we haven’t spoken before. I know the

raw emotional connection, but I don’t

rescues me from a weirdo who is

code.

see why I couldn’t experience that mag-

making a beeline for me. I want to be

So ladies, help me tell gender ste-

netic pull with most human beings. I

your knight in shining armor, ladies.

reotypes to take a hike as we form our

feel like I’m missing out on connecting

Let me rescue you from uncomfortable

connections and stand in solidarity

to half of the dance population by not

situations, and be someone you feel

against social dance creeps. I’m here

asking someone to dance.

comfortable asking for help. It can be

to get to know you and to have your

Also, I know how it is as a lady in

a harsh world out there, but I’d love to

back, and I can’t wait to show you what

social dancing; there are always creeps.

make it less so, one proffered hand at

I know. Happy dancing! E

People will yank your arm a little too

a time. You can always tell an insistent

hard, hold you a little too close, and say

beau that, “oh, this young lady already

SHEERDANCE.COM [Recurring Columns]

1 NOV 2018 •

• 27

people from the community come

Studio Spotlight

in and help out, we call those people

Sabine Ibes

tango buddies. People are paired up

BY MIRIAM ZIVEN

experience can be a very positive

with tango buddies so their learning one. We also have something called the tango challenge, which is a three

This

Miriam Zivan, a

SI: Tango and I was founded here

month, in-depth study that you are

local professional and friend of Sheer

in Minneapolis, because I thought

in a cohort of about ten or twelve

Dance, sat down with Sabine Ibes of

there was a need for people to get

people. In the cohort you come

Tango and I to get the inside scoop

together in south Minneapolis. It

together, you practice, you study

on

quickly-growing

actually started accidentally when

the history of Argentine Tango, you

studio has come from and where

people started asking me for lessons,

study the music of Argentine Tango,

they’re heading. We hear from her

and from there it grew into some-

you go to group classes, you go to

about the importance of fluidity in

thing bigger

lots of private lessons, and at the

month

where

this

dancing, how she feels about the

MZ: So what services do you offer

end of it there is a recital where you

communities that form, and about a

now that you are established? Do you

show off what you did in those three

very exciting upcoming event!

just teach group classes and private

months. So there’s many avenues

lessons and social dances, or do you

that we chose to dance with. Within

do competitions? What’s the rain-

that, we also work together with you,

bow of services you offer?

Miriam Zivan, who works at Duende

Miriam Zivan: Alright, so we’re here at the flying pig on a Saturday oct 13, with Sabine Ibes. She is the

SI: At Tango and I, what we do is

studios, and together we have made

owner and director of tango and

a little different. We do offer classes,

a coalition called the Tango Front

I. Tango and I has been in business

but we offer them at different times

where the tango beginners in our

now, as a non-profit, for how long?

and we also offer what we call a

community can get together and

Sabine Ibes: For fourteen years.

practica, which is where people get

work on the similar vocabularies,

MZ: Fourteen years! You’re here

together and practice what they

similar curriculum, that we teach.

in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area,

learned in the classes. In the classes,

There’s a lot!!

offering services for tango and also,

we do not just have one teacher. We

MZ: That is a lot! You are busy, and

not just for the community at large,

have four or five facilitators who

in a really productive and healthy

also doing a lot of community out-

help people out with their learning.

way. What’s your feeling right now

reach at this moment in time, which

So, students are dancing with these

in regards to tango in competition?

is great. How did it start, how did you

facilitators to up the ante a little

SI: Well, in Minneapolis that

bit, and they learn how it feels with

hasn’t happened yet. There hasn’t

SI: I started dance as a very young

somebody that knows the movement

been a competition here yet where

girl in the Netherlands, where I was

a little better. And at the practica, you

Argentine tango has been offered

born and raised. I always enjoyed it.

come in, you do not need to bring a

as a social dance. Some ballroom

I started with jazz and ballet. When

partner, you can learn by watching,

Argentine tango has been offered.

I grew up, (the movie) Fame was very

you can learn by dancing with either

I feel it’s a very interesting way

important to me. When I moved to

a leader or follower, and you can also

to learn Argentine Tango dancing

the US, when I was twenty-one, I

learn by dancing with the facilitators.

because you have an end goal in

started dancing at Arthur Murray

Then we have what we call Tango

mind, and with that end goal you’re

where I learned all kinds of ballroom

Bootcamps. We do them once or

going to be judged from the outside,

dancing. I moved into Argentine

twice a year, where you come in and

which means you have to obtain

tango after two or three years, as a

within three hours you learn eight

a certain posture, a certain look,

social dance.

hours worth worth of work. Hence

which means you’ll learn to dance

“bootcamp,” there’s a lot of work

Argentine Tango at a different rate

that goes into it. With that, a lot of

and different entrance.

get into dance?

MZ: Where did Tango and I first begin?



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       

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  

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SHEERDANCE.COM [Recurring Columns]

1 NOV 2018 •

• 29

MZ: How has your experience

minutes of their dance class, which

my leadership in dance and give that

with other dance styles affected how

means that we’ve created a very safe

back to my follower. I also feel that

you look at social dance and how you

environment for anybody to come

when I dance with a woman or dance

look at tango?

in at Tango and I and learn the role

with a man, it doesn’t matter if I’m

SI: I feel it’s important to explore

that they are interested in, and we

leading or following as long as I’m

and expand your horizons through

thought that Queer Tango might be

enjoying the dance. It takes some

other dance styles. I feel that move-

a very interesting experience. Queer

work to learn both, don’t get me

ment in the body can be expressed

Tango Bootcamp is an Argentine

wrong, Argentine Tango is an impro-

through many dance styles, through

Tango Bootcamp just like any other

visational dance and you have to

contact

to

bootcamp, however we’ve geared

learn one role or another, and then

Argentine tango, to Viennese Waltz.

this towards the queer community

you can start combining them, but

The technique you need for all those

because we feel that Argentine tango

focusing on one first is a good start.

dances are very similar and yet are

is ripe to be danced bye the queer

MZ: Aside from that very exciting

different enough that the dances

community, and we want to create

event, what else is on the horizon

are all expressed in different ways.

a safe environment for anybody to

right now for Tango and I?

A traditional Viennese Waltz is very

come in and experience dance. We’re

different from an Argentine Tango

starting this very soon.

improve,

to

Salsa,

SI: Well, at the Flying Pig studio, where we opened our doors in

Waltz, and you use different stylistic

MZ: That’s amazing, it’s abso-

February, Erica, the owner of the

movements, but you need the same

lutely fantastic and I’m very excited

Flying Pig studio, expanded her day

core technique to dance a Viennese

for it.

program here at the studio so you

Waltz as you do an Argentine Tango waltz.

SI: So are we! We’re very excited

can start dancing more during the

to do it. We’ve tried offering different

day. Most classes are during the

MZ: There are a lot of things

roles classes, but that hasn’t been as

evening hours or weekend hours,

that are coming up on the horizon

successful because we felt that the

but we wanted to expand our Horus

for Tango and I, and for you. One

dance wasn’t ready for it, but now we

for people who wanted to join us

of those thing that is getting some

feel that the dance is ready to open

during the day. We have Wednesday

traction, and I guess I’m biased

up, that the doors have opened up

and Saturday beginners class, and

because I’m very interested in this,

for followership and leadership.

a third! We haven’t decided exactly

is Queer Tango, and the Queer Tango

MZ:

maybe

when yet, but it’ll probably be a

Bootcamp. Can you talk more about

I’m biased, your leading skills and

Also,

and

again,

Monday beginners class. That’s three

the fluidity of what Queer Tango is,

work as someone who dances as a

new beginners classes, so there’s no

and what the Queer Tango Bootcamp

leader are some of the finest here in

excuse not to show up! We’re work-

that’s coming up in November is?

Minneapolis/St. Paul. Can you talk a

ing towards taking away excuses for

SI: Yes! Queer Tango is already

little more about your experiences

not dancing.

a movement in the world, and I

in the role of a leader and being of a

feel that here in Minneapolis, and

she/her pronoun?

MZ: That’s really cool! As we wrap up, what else would you like to share

everywhere in the world really, we

SI: Yes, I think that gender has

are ready to redefine what it means

become very fluid and should stay

to redefine what it means to dance

very fluid. I think that when you

SI: It is a social dance, and people

as people. When you dance as a lead

want to learn to dance, you come

come to socialize as much as they

or as a follow, it usually means that

in to learn to dance and not to be

do to dance. For example, at the

the leader is a man and the follower

put into a corner that’s like, you’re

practica, on Saturday mornings, we

is a woman. In Argentine tango, at

a leader therefore you are male,

have coffee and tea and people chat

Tango and I, we have stepped away

you are a follower therefore you’re

and make friendships, and through

from that. We no longer conform

a female. I enjoy both. I enjoy fol-

that they then get together and prac-

to

When

lowing and leading, and I truly feel

tice their dance. It’s very circular.

people come in to their first class

that the interpretation of the music

I’ve always enjoyed that aspect of

they will learn how to lead and how

as a leader has given me so much

it, to build the community through

to follow within the first fifteen

joy, and I can express that through

dance. I have that same sense here at

heteronormative

roles.

about Argentine Tango, Tango and I, and yourself.

30 •

• 1 NOV 2018

[Recurring Columns]

SHEERDANCE.COM

the Flying Pig, that we’re building a

where it all started, however I do feel

SI: You’re very welcome! I hope to

community and through that we are

that Argentine Tango is now a very

see you, and all of your readers at our

dancing together. For a lot of peo-

global dance, just as how Salsa and

classes, practicas, and bootcamps,

ple that starts when they first step

Viennese Waltz has traveled, so it’s a

one of which is starting very soon,

into a dance studio. They come into

very rich, diverse, community, which

on November 10th!!

dance and they find a community.

I’m proud of.

For more information about Sabine

As for Argentine Tango, Argentine

MZ: This was really great! It’s

and Tango and I, and the upcoming Queer

Tango has a rich community here

fun to hear about all of the exciting

Tango Bootcamp, check out her website,

in Minneapolis. There’s live music

changes and events that are happen-

www.tangoandi.com. E

that people can enjoy, we sometimes

ing in our community. Thank you so

have tourists from Buenos Aires,

much for your time!

Photos by Minnesota Ballrom Blast Photography Team.

to master your own body, your con-

Staying Present

nection with your partner, and the dynamic of lead and follow. Then it

BY THE GIRL WITH THE TREE TATTOO

all has to look pretty with styling to add flair. Don’t forget to breathe and smile (unless you’re dancing Tango).

Dance

wonderful

When we start getting serious

In many, many moments of feel-

power to make everything else dis-

about our ballroom training, there is

ing defeated, I’ve moaned to my

appear. There’s just you, the music,

a lot more to think about than what

teacher that there just isn’t enough

and if it’s a partner dance, the person

we’re cooking for dinner. Depending

time for me to recall everything I’m

you’re dancing with. Whatever was

on the style, you have at least four

supposed to be doing and then act on

bothering you earlier in the day is

dances’ worth of steps to learn. There

it. There literally isn’t enough time

gone. Unpaid bills, stress at work,

are specific routines to memorize

in the music. You have to just act or

unfinished tasks - it all just fades

if you’re competing. You have tech-

react. That short response time is

away when you move your body to

nique to learn and master for each

why you train and use tools like tech-

music.

dance, and I’m not just talking about

nique drills so your muscle memory

maintaining good posture. You have

can take on some of the burden.

has

this

SHEERDANCE.COM [Recurring Columns]

1 NOV 2018 •

some semblance of that control. It also helps the nerves from going wild

worries fade away when your cares

from my thoughts going wild. Trying

and worries are specifically concern-

to consciously remember every little

ing dance. I’m sure every dancer

thing I’m supposed to do during a

reading this has been told that they

waltz while I’m dancing a waltz is

looked like they were thinking while

an impossible task. Attempting that

they were dancing. When I’ve been

impossible

focused on whatever technique we

mind and pulls me completely out of

were discussing in my lesson, after

the present.

task

overwhelms

my

we dance, my teacher has told me,

Have you ever danced at a com-

“That was really good. Now can you

petition and later realized you don’t

try looking like you actually enjoy

even remember hearing the music?

dancing?”

Or you’re about to start a dance and

Of course I enjoy dancing, but

you can’t even recall the first step?

when I get too focused on the details

I liken it to having way too many

like my head position or the angle

windows open on your computer.

of my hip, I’m not actually present

At some point, the computer just

in the dancing. I’m running through

freezes and you can’t do anything.

checklists in my head.

If I overwhelm my mind by trying

Even though those checklists are

to think about too many things

full of items I need to remember in

while already being nervous about

order to dance my best, they become

a performance, it’s going to give up

a complete hindrance when it’s

and shut down at some point. It’s all

performance time. Checklists and

downhill from there. My body tenses

details (and blank stares because

up, my connection with my partner

I’m thinking so hard) are okay for

is stiff, and joy is the last emotion

lessons, but at competitions, I have

you’d guess I was feeling based on

to take the whole picture for what it

my facial expression.

is, even if I think it still needs a few adjustments.

So I just don’t think. Even in my warmup at a competition, I never go

I know if I start thinking too

through my entire routines. It’s too

much, my dancing will look like

much to think about. At Embassy

crap. So to keep my mind occupied

Ball this year, my only focus was to

enough to allow me to be present

be present and dance for myself. I

and just dance, I’ll pick one, maybe

had to trust that I was as prepared

two

as I could be and my body would do

at

focus the

points.

For

Millennium

example,

Dancesport

what it’s supposed to do.

Championships in June, my focus

I feel like I need to come back and

was my vertical alignment, i.e. mak-

write more about that T word, trust,

ing sure I wasn’t leaning back. That

but for now, if you’re like me with a

was it. At other competitions, I’ve

mind that gets a little crazy with the

focused on my elbows, my chest, or

thinking train, take a deep breath.

my head position.

Put away the checklists. Listen to

Having a singular focus for my

the music that’s playing. See your

mind also helps focus my nerves. My

partner. Feel your muscles engage as

anxiety often gets triggered when I

you prepare to take that first step. Be

feel out of control. If I know what I’m

present and just dance. E

going to focus on, it’s like keeping

ON THE

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It becomes more difficult for dance to make all your cares and

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SHEERDANCE.COM [Recurring Columns]

1 NOV 2018 •

• 33

Volunteer Spotlight

Meet the Newest Member of our Team: Emily Pofahl!

BY EMILY POFAHL

Throughout

all of my major

changes, differing activities, and

experience to push me as a budding

a well-functioning, successful society

journalist, and as a dancer.

is communication. From my time in

shifting aspirations, dance has been

An additional way that I work on

Minnesota, I also believe that Sheer

a constant. When I was unsure about

expanding my creativity is through

Dance is an amazing way to foster

what career I wanted to pursue and

other volunteer work. Back in Fresno,

that communication within the mid-

what I wanted to do for the rest of my

I founded a performing arts group

western dance community, as well as

life, I was sure that I never wanted

titled For the Love of Arts. For the

within the greater dance community

to stop dancing. My love of dance

Love of Arts is a group of performers

throughout the country. I cannot

originated from a need for align-

from the Central Valley of all ages,

wait to do my part as a member of

ment through physical therapy. As

backgrounds, and specialities that

Sheer, and continue to foster that

a small three-year-old girl obsessed

come together every few months to

communication as well. E

with princesses and Barbie, when I

create a touring show for members

was given the option to go to ballet,

of the community that normally

or go to a physical trainer to fix my

don’t have the opportunity to go out

alignment issues, I chose ballet. After

and see theatre. This included people

ballet came tap, jazz, Irish step, and

in hospitals, veterans’ centers, and

now ballroom.

retirement homes. I created For the

The next thing I knew, I was

Love of Arts my senior year of high

moving across the country to pursue

school, toured with them for a year,

higher education. One concern I had

and then passed the company over

about moving from a very suburban

to a local nonprofit called The Junior

Fresno, California to a large metro-

Company Foundation. Thanks to

politan area like the Twin Cities, was

the people at The Junior Company

that I would be unable to find a tight-

Foundation, For the Love of Arts con-

knit dance community. Fortunately

tinues to bring the arts to all mem-

Jackson Fossen and Emily

for me, I found a rich, diverse,

bers of Central Valley communities.

Pofahl. Photo by Dance

competitive atmosphere here at the University and at Sheer Dance.

I firmly believe that one of the

Fest Photography Team.

most important elements to creating

As a double-major in theatre arts and professional journalism, I thoroughly enjoy flexing my col-

Nick Johnson and Emily Pofahl. Photo by National Collegiate DanceSport

laborative, creative muscles. After

Championships Photography Team.

joining the University of Minnesota’s Competition Ballroom Dance Team, members of Sheer noticed my interest in writing and creative expression, and asked me to start contributing to the magazine. I am already enjoying as well as learning from the professionalism demonstrated at Sheer, and am looking forward to using this

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SHEERDANCE.COM [Recurring Columns]

Volunteer Report

1 NOV 2018 •

• 35

·Paris Becker--Deck Captain

·Eric Dahlman--Registration Assistant

Minnesota Ballroom Blast

·Len Ferrington--Deck Captain

BY TAYLOR WALL

·Maria Russett--Scrutineer’s Assistant

·Joanna Lessard--Deck Captain

·Jenessa Scherb--Registration Assistant

Throughout

this month’s issue of Sheer Dance, including

·Lia von Huben--Registration Assistant

Sheer Dance would like to recognize these individuals who

in a large photo spread in the center of the issue, readers will

take the time out of their busy lives to help our dance commu-

see a number of photos from this year’s Minnesota Ballroom

nity grow.

Blast, which was hosted on October 27, 2018, at the University

Another huge thanks also to the sponsors of the event:

of Minnesota.

·Nicholas Westlake Memorial Fund

This critique event was a day full of valuable feedback, informative workshops, and most importantly, loads of fun, as participants shared their love of ballroom dancing with friendly semi-competition and an entertaining Halloween-themed social dance in the evening.

Minnesota Ballroom Blast was brought to us by a dedicated team of volunteers, who have worked to develop and grow the

·U Partner Dance

·University of Minnesota Ballroom Dance Club ·SSF

·Coca-Cola Development Initiative and Activities Initiative ·Dancers Studio ·Grand Jete

Minnesota Ballroom Blast generously provides over one

event since its inception in 2012. The volunteer team is run by

thousand professional-quality photos 100% free-of-charge to

committee, where each member of the committee has a set

all competitors, spectators, volunteers, attendees, and anyone

of subtasks that they are uniquely responsible for. This year’s

who wasn’t able to make it out to the event.

Minnesota Ballroom Blast was brought to us by: ·Michael Kasinkas--Committee Chair, Project Manager, Facilities Director ·Hannah Alyea--Collegiate Marketing Coordinator ·Kaylee Anderson--Photography Coordinator ·Jessica Doro--UMNBDC Dance Coordinator

Follow Minnesota Ballroom Blast on Facebook and tag yourself and your friends, and join us again next month for full coverage of the event! Tell us how much fun you had and make sure we print your best photos by emailing us at submissions@sheerdance.com! E

·Theresa Kimler--Awards and Scholarship Coordinator, Officials Coordinator ·Christina Kyllo--Facilities Coordinator, Volunteers Assistant ·Karen Maldonado--Decorations Coordinator ·Adam Mockenhaupt--Music Coordiantor ·Daniel O’Connell--Marketing Director

·Rosemary O’Connell--Registrar, Scrutineer ·Neli Petkova--Social Media Coordinator

·Griffin Schmidt--Safety and Security Coordinator

·Taylor Wall--Volunteer Coordinator, Program Director ·Seth Westlake--Designer, Media Director ·Olivia Wicker--Program Coordinator

·Jonathan Wolfgram--Music Coordinator, Collegiate Marketing Coordinator In addition to the core team of volunteers, a number of noteworthy community members dedicated a large chunk of their time and efforts to help the event run smoothly day-of, including: ·Craig Hagensick--Treasurer

·Cody Arndtson--Officials Assistant

·Missy Baddin--Registration Assistant

Photo by Minnesota Ballrom Blast Photography Team.

LIKE WHAT YOU SEE? Support your dance community and don’t miss a single issue:

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SHEERDANCE.COM [Recurring Columns]

Results from Around the Country Here you’ll find the results of Minnesota amateurs, professionals, and pro/am couples from events around the world. We’re proud of how skilled and dedicated the Minnesota dance community is, and we’d like to share their successes with you.

1 NOV 2018 •

5th (of 6) - Kai Petersen & Rachel Schwartz 6th (of 6) - Omar Abdelfatah & Kayla Van Zeeland

AC-CL Amateur Closed Gold Rhythm Championship (C/R/SW/B/M) 1st (of 6) - Daniel Korus & Miller Balley 2nd (of 6) - Kurt Anderson & Jessica Doro 3rd (of 6) - Jonathan Wolfgram & Isabella Armour 4th (of 6) - Omar Abdelfatah & Kayla Van Zeeland 5th (of 6) - Uzoma Wamuo & Brittney Heisserer 6th (of 6) - Joshua Dowell & Nicola Bielman

Congratulations to those who competed in the month of October!

Chicago Harvest Moon Championships AC-CL Amateur Closed Bronze Ballroom Championship (W/T/QS) 1st (of 6) - Kurt Anderson & Jessica Doro 2nd (of 6) - Uzoma Wamuo & Brittney Heisserer

AC-CL Amateur Open Rhythm Championship (C/R/SW/B/M) 1st (of 2) - Jonathan Wolfgram & Isabella Armour 2nd (of 2) - Uzoma Wamuo & Brittney Heisserer

AC-CL Amateur Closed Bronze Smooth Championship (W/T/FT) 1st (of 6) - Max Wilhelm & Ali Crampton

3rd (of 6) - Adam Mockenhaupt & Emma Schnieder

2nd (of 6) - Adam Mockenhaupt & Emma Schnieder

4th (of 6) - Max Wilhelm & Ali Crampton

3rd (of 6) - Griffin Schmidt & Karen Maldonado

5th (of 6) - Griffin Schmidt & Karen Maldonado

4th (of 6) - Luke Newberg & Genova Morel

6th (of 6) - Luke Newberg & Jenoa Maldonado

5th (of 6) - Benjamin Heiniger & Emily Pofahl

AC-CL Amateur Closed Silver Ballroom Championship (W/T/Q)

6th (of 6) - Kevin Booth & Summer Paulson

1st (of 7) - Jonathan Wolfgram & Isabella Armour 2nd (of 7) - Daniel Korus & Emily Pofahl 3rd (of 7) - Uzoma Wamuo & Brittney Heisserer 4th (of 7) - Kai Petersen & Rachel Schwartz 5th (of 7) - Adam Mockenhaupt & Emma Schnieder 6th (of 7) - Kurt Anderson & Jessica Doro 7th (of 7) - Max Wilhelm & Ali Crampton

Amateur Closed Gold Smooth Championship (W/T/F/VW) 1st (of 7) - Jonathan Wolfgram & Isabella Armour 2nd (of 7) - Daniel Korus & Miller Balley 3rd (of 7) - Kurt Anderson & Jessica Doro 4th (of 7) - Kai Petersen & Rachel Schwartz 5th (of 7) - Joshua Dowell & Nicola Bielman 6th (of 6) - Uzoma Wamuo & Brittney Heisserer 7th (of 7) - Omar Abdelfatah & Kayla Van Zeeland

AC-CL Amateur Open Smooth Championship (W/T/F/VW) 1st (of 6) - Jonathan Wolfgram & Isabella Armour 2nd (of 6) - Daniel Korus & Miller Balley 3rd (of 6) - Jackson Fossen & Claire Thompson 4th (of 6) - Uzoma Wamuo & Brittney Heisserer

Photo by Minnesota Ballrom Blast Photography Team.

• 37

SHEERDANCE.COM [Recurring Columns]

1 NOV 2018 •

AC-CL Amateur Closed Silver Smooth Championship (W/T/F)

AC- Vito Bertucci International Ballroom 3-Dance Scholarship (W/T/Q)

1st (of 6) - Adam Mockenhaupt & Emma Schnieder

1st (of 3) - Shu Fu & Illana Ventura

2nd (of 6) - Kurt Anderson & Jessica Doro

2nd (of 3) - Seth Westlake & Corissa Ranum

3rd (of 6) - Joshua Dowell & Genova Morel

3rd (of 3) - Brian Noon & Erinn Seifter E

4th (of 6) - Griffin Schmidt & Karen Maldonado 5th (of 6) - Max Wilhelm & Ali Crampton 6th (of 6) - Luke Newberg & Nicola Bielman

Photos by Minnesota Ballrom

AC-CL Amateur Closed Bronze Rhythm Championship (C/R/SW)

Blast Photography Team.

1st (of 7) - Kai Petersen & Rachel Schwartz 2nd (of 7) - Adam Mockenhaupt & Emma Schnieder 3rd (of 7) - Max Wilhelm & Ali Crampton 4th (of 7) - Griffin Schmidt & Karen Maldonado 5th (of 7) - Justin Knautz & Kaitley Peterson 6th (of 7) - BenjaminHeiniger & Emily Pofahl 7th (of 7) - Luke Newberg & Genova Morel

AC-CL Amateur Closed Silver Rhythm Championship (C/R/SW) 1st (of 7) - Daniel Korus & Miller Balley 2nd (of 7) - Kurt Anderson & Jessica Doro 3rd (of 7) - Omar Abdelfatah & Kayla Van Zeeland 4th (of 7) - Griffin Schmidt & Karen Maldonado 5th (of 7) - Kai Petersen & Rachel Schwartz 6th (of 7) - Joshua Dowell & Genova Morel 7th (of 7) - Yael Polston & Adam Mockenhaupt

RS Professional American Rhythm Championship (C/R/SW/B/M) 1st (of 5) - Senzo Makhaye & Agnieszka Strojek 2nd (of 5) - Nicolas Rodriguez & Paulina Struk 3rd (of 5) - Caleb Aleman & Jamie Hinds 4th (of 5) - Cody Arndtson & Paris Becker 5th (of 5) - Abdrew Belbin & Erin Scully

• 39

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