Fred Astaire North Canton Ballroom Instructors & Students take Top Honors at recent Team Competition in Columbus.
Just off the heels from a visit from DWTS professional Tony Dovolani, student s & professionals dominate team Ballroom & Latin Competition.
Columbus, Ohio, June 14, 2009: With Dancing with the Stars being such a big hit professional instructors & students from the Fred Astaire North Canton Ballroom headed to Columbus this past weekend to defend their championship run. The Ballroom & Latin Dance team consisted of 10 students & 4 professional instructors. Team members consisted of Mix 94.1 personality Kayleigh Kriss and 6 year old Kayla Satava along with 17 yr old Abby Wahl, 18 yr old Rachel Gross, 20 yr old Nate Johnson, Mieko Fujimoto, Lou Gillombardo, Kristin Maximovich, Carol Parker & Deborah Stinner. The students danced with Professional instructors Jerry Satava, Monica Yekel & Jonathan Walters. Students & Professional from the Fred Astaire North Canton Ballroom competed against eleven other Fred Astaire Schools making this their 14th victory in the last twenty Team Competitions.
"We are very proud of all of our students. They worked extremely hard and truly deserve this honor" said Jerry Satava co-owner of the Fred Astaire North Canton Ballroom.
The Fred Astaire North Canton Ballroom offers all types of dance instruction through private, group, and practice lessons in all the Ballroom, Latin & Social dances such as Swing, Fox Trot, Rumba, Salsa, Tango, Waltz, Cha-Cha, Samba, and Mambo. Visit http://www.fredastairecanton.com for more information.
Thursday, April 2nd Jesse DeSoto from DWTS will be in the studio. Be sure to enroll for Jesse’s Latin Group Class starting at 8:15PM. The class is 90 minuets & the cost is only $40pp. Space is limited so enroll now to guarantee your reservation!!!!
Friday Night 8-11 PM will be our Spring Fling Ballroom & Latin Dance at Rolando’s. Tickets are only $10pp at the door. Be sure to come early for dinner and then stay late & dance to traditional & mainstream music!
Reservations can be made by contacting the Fred Astaire Dance Studios at 330.453.4028 or by e-mailing canton@fredastaire.com
Join us at Rolando's on Friday March 20, 2009 for our monthly dances organized by KMS Entertainment.
March 20th is our SPRING FLING!!!! Admission is only $10pp at the door. Doors open at 7:45p with a cash bar for your enjoyment.
The dance will begin at 8p with a short basic group class followed by dancing to mainstream as well as traditional style Ballroom & Latin music until 11p.
For more information, or to purchase advance tickets, contact the Fred Astaire Dance Studio at 330-453-4028
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(see links below)
We will be having a Tasting & informational Event this Thursday, March 5th beginning at 7pm & ending at 8pm for all WHO are interested in learning more about this exquisite health drink. There is no cost or obligation. R.S.V.P. or just show up!!!
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Join Our Team! We Are Now Accepting Applications for Professional Dance Teachers – Dance Experience Not Necessary!!! There's no better time than today to join the exciting, rewarding dance industry! Fred Astaire Dance Studios are always looking for more outgoing, enthusiastic instructors to add to our winning team! Because of our thorough and comprehensive training program, teaching experience is not required.
Nationwide, our studios offer the possibility of unlimited opportunities to grow. Currently, 85 of our studio owners began as teachers. The right person with the necessary skills and abilities can open a franchise within 3-4 years of starting with the company. With our Conceptual Method Of Teaching program, our teachers have all the skills required to open a studio.
Learn from some of the best in the world; Tony Dovolani, Elena Grinenko, Eric Luna & Jesse DeSoto just to name a few of our staff trainers this year.
So what are you waiting for? Contact us right away to learn more about our current job openings. We look forward to hearing from you!
Contact Jerry at 330.453.4028
Watch the video below of Jack Rothweiler President and CEO of Fred Astaire Dance Studios speaking with Jean-Marc Casanave, the co-founder of Fred Astaire Dance Studios grandson about the endless career opportunities.
10 Time Fred Astaire Cabaret Champion & Current 3 time World Cabaret Champion
Tuesday - March 17thGroup Class 8:15-9:30PM
Open to the public
Contact Fred Astaire Studios for registration information
330-453-4028 or canton@fredastaire.com
Eric Luna came to ballroom dancing after spending most of his life training for a career in sports. He transferred the dedication and teamwork developed in athletics to his dance career.
Eric's hard work has paid off in both his teaching and his competition career. His efforts in Fort Walton Beach have earned Eric recognition as one of Fred Astaire's Top Teachers for the past five years. In addition to winning the National Fred Astaire Smooth title, he is a ten-time National Fred Astaire Theatrical Champion. Eric and his partner, Georgia Ambarian, have also won the US National Cabaret Championship and the World Cabaret Championship. They are Ohio Star Ball Champions, Heritage Classic Champions and two time United States representatives at the Blackpool Invitational.
Eric has a reassuring nature with his students and strives to instill the best in them through a calm yet persistent personality. His eleven years of experience allow him to bring both business and dance knowledge to those he teaches. Eric is available for smooth, rhythm, and theatrical coaching and choreography.
Join us at Rolando's on January 23rd (THIS FRIDAY) for the first of many dances organized by KMS Entertaiment.
January is the Winter Wonderland Ballroom & Latin Dance. Admission is only $10pp at the door. Doors open at 7:45p with a cash bar for your enjoyment.
The dance will begin at 8p with a short basic group class followed by dancing to mainstream as well as traditional style Ballroom & Latin music until 11p.
For more information, or to purchase advance tickets, contact the Fred Astaire Dance Studio at 330-453-4028
That's right! Tony Dovolani is back at the Canton Fred Astaire Dance Studio!!!! Tony will be here January 15-16, 2009. Private lessons are available on a first come basis however, there is room enough for everyone in his group class (open to the public) Friday January 16th starting at 8pm until 9:30pm. Call the Fred Astaire Studio's at 330-453-4028 to reserve your dance lesson with Tony today!
Trophy Ball Dinner Dance December 5, 2009 6:30 – 11 pm Rolando’s in Canton
Trophy Ball is an annual event in which we honor our students accomplishments from the previous years hard work. Dress is business smart and this years event has changed from past years. This year will only be featuring our students from the Canton Fred Astaire Studio, along with 1 1/2 hours of general dancing. The event is open to the public and a portion of all ticket reservations will be donated to Heifer International (www.heifer.org).
The night promises to be one of excitement and fun that you will soon not forget! For ticket information please call
Everyone (including Kayla) had a wonderful time at the Group Class that Elena Grinenko held on Saturday. Many of you have asked for us to bring her back for more classes...keep watching our website for when she is able to make another visit. Thank you to all that participated in her Group Class!!!!!
Experience the Passion of Latin Dancing with our Latin Dance Workshop every Monday in August!!!
All in attendance will feel the rhythms of the...
Cha-Cha, Rumba Salsa & Merengue
Don't miss out on this extraordinary event!
***As An Added BONUS*** ALL STUDENTS enrolled in our Latin Workshop will receive ADMISSION to ALL Friday Social Dances (8:45-10:00 PM)
Our class will fill up fast and unfortunately is limited to the first 25 students. Call to today to enroll! 330-453-4028 or email us infocanton@fredastaire.com Our Latin Workshop will take place at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio at 2701 Fulton Drive N.W. Canton, Ohio every Monday in August. Class time will be from 8:00 - 8:45 PM.
Come and experience the beauty and elegance of traditional Ballroom dances like the Foxtrot & Waltz. Then light your pasion with the Tango. Enroll now in our Ballroom Workshop to Start July 7th and run every Monday night in July. Space is limited!!!!
Location: Fred Astaire Dance Studio
2701 Fulton Drive NW - 1/4 mile west of Football Hall of Fame
Join us for a summer night on the town! We’ll be dining and dancing the night away and you won’t want to miss it! Includes dinner, a salsa lesson, and an evening of HOT, HOT, HOT Salsa and Latin dancing. Reserve your spot today!
All of us here at Fred Astaire Studio hope you had a fantastic time this past weekend while learning from Two Time World Rhythm Champion Tony Dovolani!
Below are links that will lead you to the pictures you have been waiting for. Check back offten... we hope to have all the pictures up before the end of the week.
To register please visit http://www.fredastairecanton.com/gifts.html and select the desired amount. Be sure to put "Tony's Workshop" in the comment box. Any questions can be answered by calling 330-453-4028
M-R 1-10 & F 2-10 or by emailing infocanton@fredastaire.com (we will be checking it offten this weekend). We will be closed Saturday May 24 - Monday May 26, 2008 for Memorial Day.
This opportunity will fill up fast
Make your reservations now!
*price is for pre-registration & payment. If space is avalaible, at the door cost will be $75 / $150 per person.
Our Latin Workshop will take place at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio at 2701 Fulton Drive N.W. , Canton, Ohio every Monday in June. Class time will be from 8:00 - 8:45 PM.
The legendary Frank Sinatra was so enchanted by the city of Chicago that he penned one of his most famous songs in its honor. Why did he love Chicago? Because it's the kind of town where history meets innovation, where the roots of American music run deep, and where Midwestern moxy is at its peak.
From smoky jazz joints to world-famous blues bars, Chicago is home to some of this country's most historic and important musical styles. And what goes hand-in-hand with great music? Great dancing, of course.
Amateur and professional dancers from around the world will blow into the Windy City July 9-13 for the 2008 Astaire Awards Championships at the Westin Chicago North Shore. Don't miss out on an opportunity to visit this amazing city, and participate in one of the country's most prestigious and exciting competitions.
See your instructor for event & package details to find out if Chicago is your kind of town?
This past Saturday your teachers had the opportunity to train with Jesse Desoto from Dancing with the Stars! It was a great day and they are eager to share with you what they have learned!
A note about Jesse Desoto-
Jesse DeSoto started as a dance instructor in 1999 at a Fred Astaire Dance Studio near his hometown of Greendale, WI. Since then he has relocated to Buffalo Grove, Chicago. Some of Jesse's Dance Career Accomplishments with partner Jackie Josephs.
2006
Fred Astaire Dance Champions Crystal Ball Champions California Open Champions Indiana Challenge Champions
2005
St. Louis Open Champions Dance Houston Champions Crystal Ball Champions Astaire Awards Ball Champions Heart of America Champions Cleveland Dancesport Champions First Coast Colonial Champions Harvest Moon Champions Hotlanta Champions 3rd @ Ohio Star Ball 2nd in the World Mambo 5th in the World Open American Rhythm
It lookes like everyone had a great time! If you are interested in having a great time then this is for you!
Beginning in May EVERY SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH we will open our doors to the public for our Ballroom & Latin Social Dance. This will be a great opportunity for everyone to come dance and have a great time. So be sure to tell your friends, family, co-workers, everyone you come in contact with.
All of our Public Social Dances will begin at 8:45 and conclude at 10pm. Dress is casual and tasteful. Admission cost is only $5.00 per person and light refreshments are served.
P.S. If you do not know how to Ballroom or Latin Dance - DON'T WORRY!!!! Our highly trained professional instructors are here to help get you started (on the right foot!)
Wow, what a week! Just this week alone we have had a whirl wind of excitement around Team Match. We would like to congratulate the following students for taking a chance and stepping out on the floor to represent our studio!!!!
Heather Crow Lou Gillombardo Mike VanNess Gary & Kathy McKenna Rachel Gross Chuck & Julia Ostrout Kristen Maximovich Deb Stinner
For all of you that have not signed up but are interested - DON'T DELAY!!!!!! Sign up today so that you are well prepared!
Again congrats to all of our early participants!!!!
Thant's right, you can lean to dance on a budget. If you could go to a professional dance instructor and not break the bank - wouldn't you? We have heard your requests and now it is a reality. Beginning in May you can begin learning from one of our professional dance instructors here at Fred Astaire Studios!
Beginner Ballroom & Latin Classes will be held at 8:00 PM every Monday in May . As an ADDED BONUS all students enrolled can, and are encouraged to, attend our Friday Night Practice Dances at the studio. The cost for this workshop is only $65 single and $108 a couple.
Important Information About our Workshops:
A partner is preferred but not required. Fred Astaire Studios does not provide dance partners for Group Classes or Workshops.
Classes/Workshops are held for one calendar month - Check our calendar at www.fredastairecanton.com for what dances we will be doing (Monday Nights)
Friday Night Practice Dances are held every Friday Night from 8:45 - 10:00PM
Months that do not have four classes will be pro-rated
Beginning May 6th & continuing every Tuesday in May, Fred Astaire Canton will be holding an Argentine Tango Workshop for anyone wanting to experience the passion and excitement of this mysterious dance from Buenos Aires.
Your instructor for this class studied in Buenos Aires, Argintina while staying at the Tango Mansion Dandi Royal. You will be introduced to the basic figures, timing, characteristics and by the time May is over you will be able to dance the basic movements to music that make up the Argentine Tango.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Registration is going on now
Register early - space is limited to the first 25 students
A partner is preferred but not recommended- Fred Astaire Studios can not provide nor guarantees partners
Contact the studio Mon-Fri between 1-10PM for cost & registration
All of us here at Fred Astaire Canton are kicking up our heels with excitement about our new site and we hope that you enjoy the new features, also. If there is anything you would like to see just post a comment to this story. Check back often as we will be updating the calendar and events page often.
This year Team Match will be held June 29th at the Fairlawn Hilton. Come help us dominate the other Fred Astaire schools in Ohio. See your teacher for more details!
Charlie will be available to all students for dance coachings and choreography for dance solos.Speak with your instructor or just see Jan or Sandy at the front desk to register.
Something new that we are going to offer while Charlie is here…
Your own Dance Analysis!!! Charlie will be giving you suggestions on how to improve your dancing in the following dances:
Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango, Rumba, Cha-Cha and Swing
Don’t Wait - Space Is Limited and Will Fill Up Fast!
Charlie Penatello's Dance Career Accomplishments
• Fred Astaire National American Style Champion • Undefeated Boston Bicentennial American Style Champion • Undefeated Texas Challenge American Style Champion • Undefeated Mid United States American Style Champion • Undefeated Florida Breakers Dance Championships • Undefeated Virginia State American Style Champion • Undefeated Ohio Star Ball American Style Champion • Undefeated United States Dual American Rhythm & Smooth Champion • Open to the World America's Cup Champion
http://wwwimage.cbsnews.com/images/2008/03/05/image3910144.jpg (CBS) When the current crop of "Dancing With The Stars" competitors kicks off the show's sixth season Monday night, it won't just be a battle over who has the best moves.
Contestant ranking in this show is based on a combination of the judges' scores and the fan votes, so popularity counts just as much as skill.
That's what makes it tricky to predict which of the stars will make it to the finals and on to the ultimate prize: a tacky disco ball trophy.
This season's stars include several actors, an R&B singer, a few sports champions, and even an illusionist/comedian. Some of them have experience dancing, others benefit from the discipline of athletics, and all have performed in front of a crowd.
Here's a look at how they stack up against one another.
Priscilla Presley - Presley studied ballet when she was younger which should give her an edge. And maybe she learned a few hip-swiveling moves from her famous ex-husband. She could get the nostalgia vote if Elvis fans are watching.
Kristi Yamaguchi - Ice skating requires grace and fancy footwork, so Olympic medalist Yamaguchi will nail lyrical dances like the waltz as well as the intricate moves of the jive and the quickstep. Skating fans are likely to enjoy "Dancing With The Stars" - and assure Yamaguchi some votes - so she should end up one of the favorites. Several betting sites have already pegged her as the winner (see more odds below.)
Adam Carolla - As a former Golden Gloves boxer and high school football player, Carolla has athletic experience. He just doesn't look like the kind of guy who would be light on his feet, and on the surface he appears too goofy to take the competition seriously. But, he's paired with two-time winner Julianne Hough, and might be able to rally his radio listeners.
Marlee Matlin - Matlin says her hearing impairment will help her focus on the dancing, and keep her from becoming distracted by everything going on around her during the competition. In ballroom dancing, the woman must follow the man's moves, so as long as she follows her partner, she could do well. She is a respected actress, but may not be popular enough to have a built-in fan base.
Shannon Elizabeth - Elizabeth studied dance when she was a girl, and was an athlete in high school. She also studies Krav Maga, the martial art developed by the Israeli Defense Forces. She's got discipline and her sex appeal puts her at an advantage with fan votes.
Steve Guttenberg - He starred in the notably awful "Don't Stop The Music," about disco icons The Village People, so there's a chance he can at least do the hustle. Other than that, he doesn't have much going for him.
Monica Seles - Speed and discipline she's got, but she doesn't appear particularly graceful. She's also 5'10", which doesn't help, but at least her professional partner is Jonathan Roberts who is around 6'0". If tennis fans tune in, she'll have more of a chance.
Penn Jillette - The hulking illusionist/comedian might turn out to be a dark horse. He's an accomplished juggler and there's certainly grace to that skill. Many big fellas are known to be much lighter on their feet than expected, so don't rule him out yet.
Mario - The 21-year-old R&B/pop singer shows off some smooth moves in the music video for his mega-hit "Let Me Love You," which spent nine weeks at No. 1 on the Hot 100 chart a couple of years ago. That, along with the fact that he's paired with the sizzling Karina Smirnoff, should give him a nice advantage. He's definitely one to watch this season.
Jason Taylor - Emmitt Smith won season 3 and fellow NFL legend Jerry Rice was the runner-up in Season two. Will 6'6," 255-pound defensive end Taylor be able to have the same success? He towers over his 5'6" partner, Edyta Sliwinska, which doesn't help, but he does have his own set of fans and the edge of being a disciplined (and handsome) athlete. The sexy Silwinska ain't chopped liver either.
Cristian De La Fuente - Cristian says on his MySpace page that he's "always wanted to learn how to dance," so it doesn't seem like he's had past experience (although he was involved in athletics at school). He's lucky to be paired with Cheryl Burke, the professional partner who won with Emmitt Smith and Drew Lachey. He'll earn fan votes for being a hottie - especially if he has an opportunity to take his shirt off.
Marissa Jaret Winokur - She won a Tony award for playing the starring role of Tracy Turnblad in the Broadway production of "Hairspray" and before that she was Jan in the touring company of "Grease." So she has dance training and - based on the choreography of those two musicals - she'll probably do really well with the high-energy jive and swing. But, in a competition where fan loyalty can easily trump the judges' approval rating, Winokur could be at a disadvantage.
Recap
Likely to make the finals: Yamaguchi, Mario, and Elizabeth
Possible surprises: Jillette, Winokur
Fan favorites: Taylor, De La Fuente, Presley, Seles
Likely to leave early: Guttenberg, Carolla
Odds To Win (Via Sportsbook.com) Kristi Yamaguchi 7 - 4 Jason Taylor 3 - 1 Mario 7 - 2 Marissa Jaret Winokur 6 - 1 Shannon Elizabeth 6 - 1 Cristian de la Fuente 8 - 1 Monica Seles 8 - 1 Priscilla Presley 10 - 1 Marlee Matlin 15 - 1 Penn Jillette 15 - 1 Steve Guttenberg 20 - 1 Adam Carolla 30 - 1
Many times I hear the question “What factors do judges weigh in assessing a couple’s performance?” We use the “Impression Judging“ system. The criteria that a judge might consider are actually too numerous to examine individually in the brief time allotted, since at least six couples are being judged simultaneously. Therefore; the judge must rely on the impression each couple makes relative to the others. The experienced judge, having seen and studied dancing at all levels, can quickly assess their factors collectively.
The following points are considered in making a decision:
Posture – One of the most important aspects, good posture, makes you look elegant and exude confidence. It improves balance and control; and allows your partner to connect well to your body in the smooth dances. One’s competition result is directly proportional to one’s postural correctness.
Poise – In smooth dancing, the stretch of the woman’s body upwards and outwards and leftwards into the man’s right arm to achieve balance and connection with his frame, as well as to project outward to the audience.
Timing and Basic Rhythm – If a couple is not dancing on time with the music, no amount of proficiency in any other aspect can overcome this. The music is boss.
Movements – If the couple executes and coordinates the movements of the feet, legs, body and arms based on the characteristic style of the dance in question.
Lines – Attractive and well-executed lines, either curved or straight, enhance the shapes of the figures. The adjudicator considers the line of arms, back line, shoulder line, hip line, line of legs, and the line of the neck and head in each dance.
Feet - If the couple displays correct use of the feet. The adjudicator considers the control of foot movements, correct positioning of the feet and the technical soundness of footwork in each dance.
Interpretation – If the couple displays “artistic” merit. The adjudicator considers the stylishness, ease of performance, individuality, and rhythmic expression to the music in each dance.
Hold - The correct and unaffected positioning of the body parts when in closed dancing position. For instance, the line of the man’s arms should be unbroken from elbow to elbow. Also, there should be symmetry of the man’s and woman’s arms coming together to form a circle, which, although changing in size, should remain in constant shape so that the dancers remain in correct body position relative to each other. The silhouette of the couple should always be pleasing.
Togetherness - The melding of two people’s body weights into one, so that leading and following appear effortless, and the dancers are totally in sync with each other.
Musicality and Expression – The basic characterization of the dance to the particular music being played and the choreographic adherence to the musical phrasing and accents; also, the use of light and shade to create interest and value in response to these accents and phrases. For instance, the Foxtrot, the stealing of time from one step to hover; or the quick speed of a turn in an otherwise slow Rumba; or the snap of the head to suddenly freeze and then melt into slowness in the Tango.
Presentation - Does the couple sell their dancing to the audience? Do they dance outwardly, with enthusiasm, exuding the joy of their dancing and confidence in their performance? Or do they show strain and introversion?
In simple English, stand up straight, smile, use your technique, lead and follow, and HAVE FUN!!! Competition is a great way to improve your dancing and get prizes for it. So, no matter what, just go out there and give it your all.
Dancing isn’t just about the steps and music; it’s a perfect combination of physical activity, social interaction, and mental stimulation.. Health- When you dance, your cardiovascular system improves, your muscle tone increases, and you burn calories. This low-impact aerobic activity also increases flexibility, strength, and balance. Olympic athletes often dance as part of their training to sharpen their control, agility, and speed. Dancing is great exercise in a pleasant, fun atmosphere.
Confidence - Dancers possess an aura of self-confidence and an ability to enjoy themselves more in social situations. When you learn how to dance, your entire mental outlook will take on a fresh sense of creativity, motivation, and energy. This new self-confidence inyour dancing abilities will transfer to other aspects of your life as well.
Self Expression - Dance provides an emotional outlet so that you can reflect your feelings through yo u r body movements with passion and flair. Dancing will bring out, improve upon, and strengthen your ability to permanently use these expressive qualities even when not dancing.
Social Life - Dance lessons are an easy, low-pressure way to meet people. Fred Astaire Dance Studios provide weekly practice dance parties, nights out on the town, regional and national competitions, as well as fun trips to many different locations. Our lessons are the perfect place to rediscover romance & dance your way to love!
Relaxation - In today's fast-paced world, we sometimes forget to take a moment for ourselves. Dancing provides a temporary escape from your normal daily activities, a chance to relax, relieve stress, and concentrate on yourself.
Fun - Dancing is a great way to add excitement to your life. Although learning to dance takes concentration and dedication, you will be constantly surrounded by artistic, cheerful people who make learning a pleasurable and rewarding experience. So join us and have some fun!
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Photos: "Dancing With The Stars"
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