There was a introductory workshop on it at "Blush". It was really good fun and energetic. It was delivered by Nigel and Nina.
Like any dance I see it as an enjoyable experience - but Balboa seems to bring out the same furrowed concentration as beginners ballroom in far too many people - I truely believe that many people think that it's "really hard" so it must be "really worthy" whereas it's "really just dancing"
We just got to do a lesson with them at Eclipse. Definitely hooked now.
I didn't realise it at the time, but I saw them Lindy Hopping in Central Park and thought they were amazing.
Maybe I haven't thought about it enough, because the "basics" don't seem that hard to me?
The basic steps aren't hard at all.... and a lot of the balboa teachers will tell you that once it clicks, it isn't a hard dance at all. Myself, I'm not quite at that stage yet - it clicks occasionally, but not reliably. I think the problem a lot of people have with it is that it's a very fast dance that requires a very subtle, relaxed but totally connected lead..... and what many people do (I used to do this a lot) when dancing fast is to tense up. Which is not good for one's leading or following at the best of times... but at Balboa speeds, it makes things ten times harder.
For anyone who's interested in why the ultra-compact dances like Balboa became popular, this picture (Hollywood Palladium, 1940) might prove enlightening....
Dan is known to be one of the best teacher (if not the best) of Balboa in the UK - I am soooooooooo lucky as he is teaching at the HepCats weekend I am going to tomorrow.
If you dance swing, you HAVE to learn Balboa - if not you will find yourself sitting out lots and as many people don't dance fast lindy any more (and certainly not in this weather)
I have been putting off learning as I don't like close contact dancing much, but Bal Swing looks fun
--ooOoo--
Age is a question of mind over matter, if you don't mind, it doesn't matter
Leroy (Satchel) Paige (1906-1982)
Mickey Mouse's girlfriend, Minnie, made her film debut, along with Mickey, in "Steamboat Willie" on November 18, 1928.
That date is recognized as her official birthday.
Me and Gav are off to Chiswick tonight for a Balboa class. I can't wait!
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