This month we’re proud to bring in guest instructors: Mike Legett and Dan Rosenthal of Cincinnati!
Mike (the Girl) Legett began dancing in 2001, and has since become one of the most respected dancers and instructors in the swing world. She teaches and performs all over the US, and is one of the few full-time lindy and blues instructors in the country. She loves the freedom of expression of the dances, and works to bring the history of the dance together with innovative creativity. She aims to help leaders create artistic compositions that are clearly led; she wants follows to have the ability to be the completely literal follow, and the inspiration and freedom to be imaginative and dynamic contributors.
Dan Rosenthal is a dynamo of energy, attempting to do all the things, all the time. He strives to excel at all forms of solo and partnered vernacular Jazz dance, from Lindy Hop to Blues, even dabbling in West Coast Swing. Dan loves being the center of attention, whether he’s performing, competing, or just being a goon. His recent wins include 1st Place in the Blues Strictly at Hawkeye Swing Festival, 1st Place in the Slow Groove Competition at Heartland Swing Festival 2012, Collegiate Jitterbug Champion at Heartland Swing Festival 2012, and 2nd Place at the BamBLOOZled 2012 Open Jack & Jill. In addition, Dan has taught at events like Steel City Blues Festival 2012, Dayton Swing Smackdown 2012, and Nevermore Jazz Ball 2012. As much as he loves the stage, Dan’s foremost goal is to be the best social dancer and teacher he can be. As a teacher he focuses on strengthening connection and aesthetic, helping dancers feel as good to dance with as they look.
These are a Few of Our Favorite Things (7:30-8:30)
Two Parts Moves, One Part Musicality, and a Dash of Technique, the Perfect Recipe for Blues. Using a few cool moves as a means of addressing important technique topics, we’ll explore ways to be musical both by acknowledging specific moments (small picture) and throughout a song (big picture) making you fun to dance with from start to finish. Topics may include close embrace or Drag Blues-inspired moves, stretchy-zoomy movement, phrasing, and creativity.
Beginner Crash Course (8:30-9:00)
This will be a weekly feature designed to introduce novices to Blues dancing. It will provide enough vocabulary to have fun on the dance floor. Plus, when students feel comfortable with this material, they’ll be ready for the Series classes.
Devona Cartier and Amy Kucharik will be behind the DJ booth, serving up some damn fine Blues.
As always, the lesson is $5 and the dance is an additional $5.