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DFR
Faculty Congress
Sunday 23rd September 2001
at The Dacorum Pavilion, Hemel Hempstead
Report - Part Two by Janet Clark
'SILVER/GOLD ROUTINES'
LISA AMBROSE assisted by Sheila Morrison
It is normally quite difficult to 'get going' after lunch but not so with
this lecturer. Lisa just sets the place alight with her vibrant energy.
This is not Lisa's lecture style, this IS Lisa! One can easily see why
Lisa Ambrose has children following her in the manner of the Pied Piper
of Hamlyn. Her charismatic personality naturally draws people to her,
especially the young. Lisa's experience and natural gift for teaching
contribute to her producing interesting, *'affordable'
choreography. She has the ability to teach in an up beat way that not
only ensures everyone learns the routine but that we also feel good about
ourselves. The teachers present got to Week 5 in ten minutes into the
lecture, pretty good going. Again, excellent teaching points, positively
given. A well paced lecture; all go, all achieving.
*'Affordable' in my language means safe enough
to know that the once-a-week pupil will not be injured. This also means
the dancer will not be an injury 'drop out' but will continue dancing
hopefully for ever!
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| 'Silver/Gold
Routine's' Lisa Ambrose & Sheila Morrison |
Kimberley
Brewer 'A Change in Time' |
'A
CHANGE IN TIME' (Slow Freestyle)
YVONNE TAYLOR-HILL (often requested by members)
assisted by Kimberley Brewer
The
change in time that Yvonne gave us is one of her favourite, 3/4 time,
beautiful choreography that so enhances the qualities of 3/4 music, superbly
taught. Yvonne explained how the use of arms actually assists the movement
and that better appreciation of the lyrical quality of 3/4 time and use
of supporting knee will greatly enhance performance. She explained how
a little triple step would accommodate any extra bars of music within
a phrase, this often occurs in 3/4 time, how the dancer must be in the
right place at the right time and the essential need to 'blend' - no full
stops. And much, much more. Yvonne's imaginative teaching captivated the
class. Her intonation achieved an instinctive compression on the '1' counts
from her students, as she wanted. Teaching skill was clear to see in results;
the class performed Yvonne's dance so well. Yvonne's parting remark was,
'I feel we must expose the advanced pupils to more different rhythms.'
Kimberley demonstrated extremely well and was thanked for this and all
the work she has performed for the ISTD (videos etc), with a beautiful
basket of flowers. In thanking Yvonne for a brilliant lecture, Paul Streatfield
quoted, 'The power of music and dance conveys feelings to which the access
of language is limited.'
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'CHILDREN
IN LINE' lecturer JEAN CANTELL
This title as Jean explained actually refers to American Line dancing,
a style that gives such pleasure. This style may be used in examinations
in its own right - Country Western or as one dance in a Freestyle examination.
Jean said how popular this is as an After School Club activity within
primary schools and that it is looked upon favourably by OFSTED as fulfiling
a desirable role. It can be seen how applicable this style is to girls
only classes as indeed to mixed classes where there is no desire to 'mix'
in the form of partnering, as is often the case with children. This style
is less energetic than Freestyle but still lots of fun. Jean is infectious
in her love of this style and is always eager for us, the teachers, to
reap the benefits of fun and finance that she herself receives from this
field of dance.
Territa
taught first with Alice and Tiffany, two under 12's helping to demonstrate.
Territa taught with great authority and a lovely easy manner, a very competent
young teacher. Then Charles Richman took the floor to teach 'Word Up'.
As he explained this dance has a real Disco feel. Charles gave clear instructions
with confidence. He had three American Line Dance Champions demonstrating
with him.
'ROCK
'n' ROLL'
DEBBIE MITCHELL partnered by Nigel Kirk
Debbie paced her lecture with some audience participation and some spectating
because she had so much to get through. Debbie began the lecture with
her personal views/thoughts on what is suitable for the Warm Up requirements
for professional Rock 'n' Roll examinations. Then she took us through
a comprehensive tour of all levels of Medal work for examinations and
competition. Debbie clarified the Syllabus requirements and showed some
very nice amalgamations. As well as her clear instructions Debbie has
given copious notes of her good ideas on the use of the Rock 'n' Roll
syllabus that will be a great asset to the many teachers working with
this style of dance.
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| Jean
Cantell presenting 'Children in Line' |
ÔMedalist
Rock 'n' RollÕ Debbie Mitchell assisted by Nigel Kirk |
'ROSETTES'
lecturer MANDY PEARCE
assisted by her two daughters, Amy 8 years and Emily 6 years
Such fun and energy! Mandy has a very natural (and productive) way with
her teaching. This I know from seeing her work in examinations. Someone
who, near the end of a work-packed day, can enthuse and inspire a huge
class of advanced professionals to get on that floor to skip and jump
as little 'Rosettes', has something pretty special. What is more the class
was obviously loving it and having great fun. We were all thinking how
well the five dances (all quite different, one from another), will go
down in our own classes! A lecture packed full of fun, energy and lots
of work. One of the very best under 8 lectures I have seen.
'ADVANCED FREESTYLE' VICKY BARKESS
So to the last lecture of the day. We are all pretty 'wrung out' by now.
The heat, the work; mental block is beginning to set in...but hey, it's
Vicky Barkess. On that floor and with it, guys and gals, there is great
stuff to come! Vicky is a superb dancer, quite captivating. She has superb
movement quality combined with outstanding musicality. I cannot take my
eyes off her when she dances, which is probably a shame because I am told
that Sidney, who assisted Vicky, danced very well - sorry Sidney!
Creative, sound choreography was taught superbly with excellent teaching
points. I can pay no greater compliment than to say that this is an example
of creative, inspiring advanced work that is also safe in its choreographic
structure. Vicky at the end of her lecture said. 'I don't know why they
keep asking me.' Vicky, it is because you are brilliant. Please come again
soon. Yvonne in her thanks for the lecture, more or less echoed my thoughts.
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| 'Advanced
Disco/Freestyle' Vicky Barkess & dancers |
'Rossettes'
Amy Honour, aged 8 |
'COOL
DOWN' CARA-LEA REDIT
And so to the Cool Down. This essential and lovely part of the proceedings
was given with the same quality of excellence with which Cara-Lea started
the day. Yvonne thanked Cara-Lea for a job well done and she congratulated
the members present for taking part from beginning to end with such enthusiasm.
The
Disco/Freestyle/Rock'n'Roll Faculty remain 'true' to the needs of this
style of dance in their ability to 'grow' and change, according to the
changing music scene, whilst retaining and constantly improving the qualities
of the more classical styles within this field. By using charismatic,
creative, established lecturers AND giving opportunity for new lecturers,
the vast base that is *FREESTYLE is nurtured,
explored and developed.
*In Disco Freestyle the operative word becomes
two - FREE STYLE. Whilst meaningfully encapsulating styles of many other
forms of dance within its boundaries, it will always be changing, growing,
bursting with new ideas and developing its technique from the ever growing
informed knowledge of kinesiology. Congratulations to Yvonne Taylor-Hill,
Chairman, and Betty Bouston, Vice Chairman, Committee and all members
of this Faculty... Congratulations and THANK YOU! Do not forget that all
this is captured on video available from the Merchandise
section or Dereck Brown direct.
Date
for your Diary
22nd September 2002, DFR Faculty Congress
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Grand
Disco Medallist Festival
Incorporating the Line Dance and Rock 'n' Roll Finals
By
Jean Cantell
A
very wet and windy autumn morning greeted Disco/Freestyle competitors
and their families as they travelled to Guildford from all over the country
for the highlight of the DFR Faculty year, the 'Grand Finals Day'. In
spite of some very difficult journeys through floods and diversions, nothing
could dampen the spirits of everyone arriving at the Spectrum Leisure
Centre. From the moment the doors opened the Spectrum buzzed with excitement.
The sports arena with its tiered seating, enormous floor and beautifully
decorated stage looked more impressive than ever. The massive archway
of red, white and blue balloons framing the stage and the glittering array
of trophies waiting to be won, provided a spectacular focal point for
the day.
The
sports hall floor was soon full of eager young dancers carefully warming
up for their big day. Medallists from thirteen Area events had worked
hard to gain the honour of competing in the Line Dance and Rock 'n' Roll
Finals and the atmosphere was electric. The capacity crowd was welcomed
by Mrs Yvonne Taylor-Hill (DFR Faculty Chairman), who then introduced
Mr Richard Hunt and Mr Nicky Miles, the joint compéres of the prestigious
Line Dance Final. Their first task was to introduce the Line Dance adjudicators
who were either choreographers of the selected dances, DFR Faculty Committee
members or Examiners.
Mrs
Yvonne Taylor-Hill, Miss Betty Bouston, (DFR Faculty Vice-Chairman) Mrs
Pat Lait, Miss Debbie Mitchell, Mr Paul Streatfield, Mrs Rachel Wadey,
Mrs Pat Woor and Miss Jean Cantell.
LINE
DANCE GRAND FINALS
The standard of dancing in these competitions has improved beyond recognition
since the first Area Competition in 1991. Work overall is now more controlled
with good technique showing clearly throughout most of the work. It is
pleasing to see so many boys taking part in this event and dancing with
such enthusiasm. With this talent and vitality the future looks very bright.
Congratulations to all teachers for their dedication and effort.
UNDER
8 ROSETTE - choreographed by Pat Lait.
It was a joy to watch these delightful bouncy young dancers all 'having
a ball', performing a routine perfectly suited to this age group with
obvious enjoyment. The worthy winner was Amy Honour who danced confidently
with excellent poise, style and foot action.
UNDER
10 BRONZE & BELOW - choreographed by Paul Streatfield.
Choreographed with good use of travelling steps and turns. The arm lines
and shapes gave scope to really 'hit the beat'. All finalists gave a dazzling
performance, the 'star shapes' did more than twinkle, they sparkled brilliantly!
The winner was a young gentleman with a terrific personality, Ankush Khanna.
UNDER
12 BRONZE & BELOW - choreographed by Betty Bouston.
The exciting routine gave the seven dancers the opportunity to travel
and show their elevation to good advantage. The finalists showed good
arm lines and lively body action, particularly the winner, Andrew Duke.
UNDER
14 BRONZE & BELOW - choreographed by Sue Simmonds.
This was a strong and very striking routine making good use of held positions
to create impact. Six dancers were in this final, each one so sharp it
could have been a well rehearsed team dancing with flair and lovely personalities
including the winner, Vicky Harrington.
OVER
14 BRONZE & BELOW - choreographed by Paul Streatfield.
A Street Dance routine using 'Hop-Hop' action and requiring dancers to
get well down into the funky rhythmic actions, requisites of this unique
dance style demonstrated by the winner, Jade Main.
UNDER
10 SILVER/GOLD - choreographed by Debbie Mitchell.
Some very neat footwork and strong rhythmic feeling was necessary to shine
in this routine performed to Rock 'n' Roll music featuring the style and
steps of this lively dance, all finalists capturing the mood so well.
The winner was Rosie Honour giving a very poised and polished performance.
UNDER 12 SILVER/GOLD - choreographed by Debbie Mitchell.
Another challenging Rock 'n' Roll routine, energetic and lively dancers
showed very expressive Rock 'n' Roll actions with neat, rhythmic and well
controlled foot patterns. The winner, Melissa Maher danced with excellent
presentation and attack.
UNDER
14 SILVER/GOLD - choreographed by Paul Streatfield.
This beautiful, slow routine required good poise, control and musical
feeling. Dancers, sustaining their movements, created effective moments
of stillness, together with smooth flowing, lyrical dancing. This final
was most impressive. The stylish winner was Jenni Bailey.
OVER
14 SILVER/GOLD - choreographed by Paul Streatfield.
Strong dancing with good attack was required in this dynamic routine with
attractive arm lines and contrasting actions, the attributes of the winner
Lara Cowtan.
UNDER
12 GOLD STAR - choreographed by Sue Simmonds.
Fast and innovative choreography required speed, agility and an acute
sense of timing. For young dancers this routine proved quite a challenge.
The winner Seraphina Gosling gave an energetic and exhilarating performance.
UNDER
14 GOLD STAR - choreographed by Sue Simmonds.
The rhythmically choreographed, intricate foot patterns, body ripples
and imaginative use of arms were designed to really hit the beats. The
finalists all achieved these objectives with the winner being Tiffany
Moody.
OVER
14 GOLD STAR - choreographed by Yvonne Taylor-Hill.
This stylish and well choreographed routine demanded a high standard of
performance to dance the routine to its full potential. All finalists
achieved these objectives with the winner being, Charlotte Gascoigne.
The
Adjudicators for the afternoon events faced a very hard task this year
as there was a marked improvement in all sections and events. So congratulations
to all you teachers. The panel were Miss Jill Bush, Miss Janet Clark,
Miss Margaret Connon, Miss Frances Dawson, Mrs Julie Earnshaw, Mr Derek
Green, Mr John Houghton and Mr Vernon Kemp.
PAIRS
by Marion Lane
Some
260 couples took part in the first rounds of the Pairs events. This is
always a challenging step on from solo work and one in which the Bronze
and Below sections showed promise, with the dancers already developing
their ability to keep together. Overall the standard was good, with some
couples developing patterns and positions well to display interesting
choreography. In particular, the Gold and above sections were keenly contested,
giving the Adjudicators a difficult task. I am sure the enthusiasm and
energy of the dancers kept the spectators on the edge of their seats and
certainly produced some excellent dancing in the finals.
ROCK
'N' ROLL FINALS by Richard Hunt
Although
in its infancy compared to the Grand Finals of the Line Dance, the competitors
who qualified for the Rock 'n' Roll Grand Finals met their challenge with
equal enthusiasm. The fact that it is a qualifying event seems to spur
on not only the competitors, but the spectators as well. Several competitors
and parents had commented as to how pleased they were that the Rock 'n'
Roll event had been moved forward in the programme. This ensured that
the children who had worked extremely hard to qualify would benefit by
the extra support from the spectators. At 3.45pm, as the first competitors
were called to the floor for the second Grand Finals Rock 'n' Roll event,
you could feel the excitement begin to rise within the Spectrum.
The
music played by DJ, Ian Jordan, included many of the Rock 'n' Roll greats
such as 'Rock Around the Clock', 'Shake, Rattle an' Roll' and 'This Old
House'. The young enthusiastic dancers turned out some super performances
with generally good use of Syllabus Figures. It was refreshing to see
some compact routines that did not progress too much around the floor.
From
a starting figure of 115 couples from all over England, the Adjudicators
had the difficult task of selecting firstly the finalists and then ultimately,
the couples who would become the ISTD Rock 'n' Roll Medallist winners
for 2001. Once those decisions had been made, the Vice Chairman of the
DFR Faculty, Miss Betty Bouston was called to the floor to make the prize
presentations. The delight of the children was clear to see as they came
to collect their prizes, a super ending to an event, which I am sure,
will continue to grow in stature as the children set their sights on achieving
the top in both the Line Dance and Rock 'n' Roll finals.
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| Winners
of the Disco/Freestyle Line Dance Competition |
SOLOS
by Amanda Hughes
The
Solo events were to be the last event in this wonderful end to the competition
season. They started at 5pm and although late in the day, the arena was
still bursting with atmosphere and energy. With 640 entries in the Solo
categories it was clear to all competitors that they would have to dance
to a very high standard to make the final. As the Solos began their first
round, it was clear that the Adjudicators would have a very difficult
decision as the standard this year was extremely high!
There
was an exceptional amount of well rehearsed and imaginative routines all
very suitable for their age and grade, ranging from the Under 6's who
always receive rapturous applause, to the very dedicated and skilled work
of the Gold Stars and Awards, who this year all seemed to have worked
to an excellent level of technique, showing skill, style and grace, yet
still managing to incorporate syllabus steps and movements.
As
the events commenced to semi-finals and finals, the atmosphere was electric.
Although late in the day all soloists and spectators had kept their enthusiasm
going and there was still cheering and encouragement as the finals commenced.
We
were all glad that the atmosphere had been helped along by Nicky Miles
and Paul Streatfield and that the music played by the DJ was apt for each
event. Richard Hunt presented the much coveted trophies to the lucky and
well deserving Solo finalists. The whole event had been exciting and a
privilege to watch and as competitors started to leave the Spectrum I
am sure that everyone will be looking forward to Grand Finals' Day
next year, 20th October 2002.
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Imperial
Disco/Freestyle Open Championships
Sunday
3rd March 2002
Spelthorne Leisure Centre Staines, Middlesex
NEW
PROGRAMME OF EVENTS
•
Dancers Workshop
• Solos
• The Imperial Dancer 2002
• Pairs
For
further information please contact
Paul Streatfield Tel: 01932 221803
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Rock
'n' Roll Guidance Course
Coming
Soon!
Contact
Patsy Graham early in the New Year for details: 01494 513135
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Christmas
and New Year Greetings
The
Chairman, Mrs Yvonne Taylor-Hill and the DFR Faculty Committee would like
to wish all teachers a very Happy Christmas and a healthy, prosperous
New Year!
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DFR
FACULTY AREA MEDALLIST COMPETITION DATES
| AREA |
ORGANISER |
TELEPHONE |
DATE |
PLACE |
| Lancashire |
Elaine
Isherwood |
0151
9292207 |
27th
January 2002 |
Southport |
| Sussex/Surrey |
Jean
Cantell/
Derek
Green |
01273
513784/
01276
475680
|
27th
January 2002 |
East
Grinstead |
| Hants/South |
Jean
Cantell/
Chris Edwards
|
01273
513784/
01590 645061 |
10th
February 2002 |
Gosport |
| Herts/Beds/Northants |
Betty
Bouston |
01442
212404 |
24th
March 2002 |
Hemel
Hempstead |
| Hampshire/Dorset |
Chris
Edwards |
01590
645061 |
14th
April 2002 |
Bournemouth |
| West
Yorkshire |
Richard
Hunt |
01924
371173 |
5th
May 2002 |
Huddersfield |
| Cambridgeshire |
Marion
Lane |
01638
751175 |
7th
July 2002 |
Soham |
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