Blog
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall…
To whom is it useful of them all? For teachers and coaches it’s very useful, almost essential in certain situation. Checking some lines, positions, seeing the student from different angles; are all good reasons to have the mirror. As amateurs, students, and even professional dancers, you have to be careful, how much you rely on [...]
The hold in closed dance position in American Smooth or International Standard
Leaders and followers hold in close dance position in American Smooth or International standard Once the partners have achieved good posture together (refer to my previous blog on posture). Man and lady should have the feeling of stretching the upper body outward - the elbows should continue that stretch. Man’s left arm should be raised [...]
How To Prepare For Competitions
Hi guys, just wanted to give you a helping hand on preparing for your next competition. We are now in an era of our dance industry where we have come to realize that it’s not just about the physical ability of the dancer! With all the better understanding of history of competing, knowledge of body [...]
Got a good book?
No, I am not looking for a reading group suggestion, but I assume some of you are curled up on the couch with a great romance or mystery novel these days. Let’s put that book to good use for your dancing! Anytime you take a break from reading, put it on your head. Take a [...]
The Development of Ballroom Dancing
The development of ballroom dancing Having been part of the dance industry now for roughly 46 years I’ve seen many changes, some good and some bad. But the good has outweighed the bad numerous times. Let’s start with international ballroom: What we see from our ballroom competitors these days, compared to 20 years ago, [...]
How to achieve good posture
By Stanley McCalla International Dance Council member Coach, National Adjudicator, National Champion How to achieve good posture dancing with your partner in International Standard or in American smooth closed hold. Posture Good dancing must start with excellent posture and hold. Why? Because it equalizes balance; it creates a pleasing silhouette; and it supports efficient communication [...]
Dancing Takes Patience, Practice, and the Right Program
KNIGHTtime by Stephen Knight, FADS Vice President and Executive Dance Director When it comes to learning Ballroom Dance, the possibilities are endless… but every dancer should have one very important quality – Patience. In my travels to Fred Astaire Dance Studios locations across the country, there is always one question that comes up during [...]
A Newcomers Guide to a Ballroom Dance Competition
KNIGHTtime by Stephen Knight, FADS Vice President and Executive Dance Director With my over 20 years of teaching experience, I know it can be intimidating for a new dance student to make the decision to enter a Fred Astaire Dance Studios Dance Competition. Whether it’s a regional, inter-regional or national dance event, there’s a [...]