Theatre Congress
	Spring Congress
	Dinner Dance

Theatre Congress

Royal Lancaster Hotel, London • Sunday 17th March 2002

Sunday 17th March may well have been wet and windy outside, but inside the Westbourne Suite of the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London the atmosphere was filled with excitement and an air of expectation.

Dancers, teachers and administrators gathered in the well appointed ballroom which had been set up with a large area covered by dance mats surrounded by chairs and tables in long rows providing the ideal venue for the dancers and the audience.

Amy Thake, Royal Ballet School & former pupil of Caroline Wright

The proceedings begun with the Chairman's address by Patricia Prime. First up were three young gentlemen, under the watchful eye and careful instruction of Alison Willet, who demonstrated the revisions to the Boys Grades 1 & 2 Amalgamations. Juliet Locks and Lucy Pohls presented a demonstration of Classical Greek which illustrated very clearly the similarities, and differences, between the training methods for Greek and Classical Ballet.

Sherrill Wexler and the students from Elmhurst transported us to Spain with an exhilarating exploration of Spanish Dance in which both Flamenco and regional dances were demonstrated with great skill and vigour. Gauri Sharma Triparthi described and demonstrated the beauty, grace and depth of meaning of South Asian Dance in her lecture - Unveiling Kathak: A presentation of North Indian Classical Dance Genre.

A student from Elmhurst demonstrating Spanish dancing

The star of Tap Dogs, Douglas Mills, really set the place alight as he taught the group who had taken to the floor a very spirited Tap routine leaving those of us not brave enough to have joined in wishing that we had!

After lunch, it was back to basics as Fergus Logan, dance captain for My Fair Lady, conducted a class in Classical Ballet. Invited students were used to illustrate the importance of correct placing and strong basic technique in the production of a top class dancer. The students responded eagerly to his expert instruction and wealth of knowledge.

The sounds of a Britney Spears hit song provided the vehicle for a complete change of pace as Alistair David, from the show Chicago, shared his wonderful facility and sheer love of the art with the dancers who had taken to the floor for the Jazz Masterclass. The atmosphere created left the audience in a very receptive mood for the Showcase - a presentation of dances by the Faculties' Award Winners which was to follow.

Participants in Douglas Mill's masterclass

And what a treat it was! The best of the best, so to speak. The great range of dance disciplines under the umbrella of the Imperial Society illustrated the versatility of not only the young performers, but also of their teachers and the Society as a whole. All too soon the last dancers left the stage and it was time for the vote of thanks to all the participants who had contributed to the success of the Theatre Congress 2002.

Trevor Hicks

A Rhythmic day from start to finish!

I arrived for Mrs Prime's warm welcoming address and a well-earned cup of coffee, as Sunday mornings are not everyone's forte!

I was not sure how the day was going to pan out, as it seemed it would be quite long with the Dinner Dance at the end of the day, but as my mother says, "you're young, you can cope!" However, I knew that I was going to be in for a treat looking at the schedule ahead of me.

With gentle coersion from Alison Willett we were up on our feet learning the new Boys Grade Amalgamations.

'Precious Gems', pupils of Karen Collings performing at the Showcase

Following seamlessly on from that we had a beautiful demonstration of Classical Greek. I had not seen much Greek dancing before, and it gave me a clear insight into the commonalties with Ballet, especially shown through the poise and balance in the body and in the allegro sections.

Sherrill Wexler's exquisitely choreographed students (from Elmhurst), demonstrated an exploration in Spanish dancing next. What can I say, this was one of the highlights for me, amazing. The dancers had personality, energy, style, panache, and clarity of rhythm, all the factors you need for Spanish dancing. This is what we would like our students to look like I'm sure, especially near an exam time. It does not always work out that way but we try!

Aimee Higgs, Grade 4 winner at the Imperial Ballet Awards All photographs: Elaine Mayson

After this explosion of rhythm and pace we were given more food for thought in the ISTD's newest Faculty, the expressive and rhythmic technique; South Asian Dance. It reminded me of being back at University grappling with the pounding foot rhythms and the inevitable eye exercises that the dancers made look so easy in this demonstration. A fledgling Faculty that is sure to go from strength to strength.

Gauri Sharmi Tripathi from the South Asian Faculty

Lunch did seem to be quite a way away, but the next class was sure to make us forget our growling stomachs! Dougie Mills bombarded us with intricate steps and cross phrasing and reminded me of the fun you have using different types of rhythmic response.

Finally a respite; lunch, although that didn't last too long as we were back into the foray with an Advanced 1 and over Ballet class given by Fergus Logan. This was another highlight in the day. It concentrated on a pure classical technique, no frills or flounces, just hard work, enjoyment and assembles (that joined in the air!), as he demonstrated so beautifully! It was a joy to watch a teacher with such an infectious manner and vitality; the students had no choice but to sweat hard and want more!

The day was drawing to an end but the last class of the day, Alistair David's Jazz class, was sure to go out with a bang! A fantastic class with a routine that wouldn't have looked out of place in a Britney Spears video.

David Henshaw, former Chairman of the South Asian Faculty, receives the Abbey Life Cup from Patricia Prime, ISTD Vice Chairman

Last but by no means least, the showcase burst on to the floor, full of talent and energy, demonstrating the high quality of students, teachers and choreographers that exist all over the UK. What a fantastic day full of sweat, fun, and hard work but most of all rhythm, rhythm, rhythm!

Lisa Harrison-Jones
All photos by Elaine Mayson

Back to top

Spring Congress

Royal Lancaster Hotel, London • Sunday 17th March 2002

Ballroom Lectures

The first lecture of the day was Ballroom Class Variations entitled PG Tips Part I. This was a beautifully timed lecture given by Pat Goode, assisted by Simon and Heidi Cruwys.

Pat Goode (left)

Using standard figures in the Waltz, with a change of timing on the Weave, a Lock with a slow head turn for the lady and a Swivel ending to the Chair. The Slow Foxtrot featured a Fallaway Slip pivot into the corner and again the very popular Swivel and extended Weave. Tango was short and sharp using a Contra Check against the LOD a Swivel and Zig Zag - very useable. The Quickstep group was fast, short and suitable for class teaching with a Tipple Chasse possibly being substituted for a Tipsy.

Simon & Heidi Cruwys

To quote the words of our Chairman, Robert Grover, 'Express steps - so much material in such a short time'.

The second half of PG Tips 2002 was given by Paula Goodyear, assisted by John Taylor. In the Waltz, there was a four bar group with a change of role on the popular Double Natural Spin. The Tango used a leg lift for the lady, left side moves and the ever popular Swivel and Wing. The Slow Foxtrot introduced a Rumba cross from a heel pull. The Quickstep gave us a Stutter Chasse, Tipple and Fishtail. All interesting work which would no doubt appeal to the class pupil.

Paula Goodyear & John Taylor

Another Ballroom lecture given with clarity and perfect timing for a half hour slot - so much material.

I heard many good comments about the usability of short groupings used by the two PG Tips lecturers.

Developing syllabus work for Gold Star 1 was the title of the lecture given by Vernon Kemp, ably assisted by Gillian Cook. On reaching this standard many of our pupils feel that they can now dance every step in the book and much, much more. In the words of wisdom from Vernon Kemp, it is important to choose the right variations for a Gold Star. Don't throw out all the movements that have been worked upon in previous grades, but develop them and add on e.g. add extra steps, change the timing or reverse the roles, just enough to give a challenge and produce quality work. Start the exam routine with familiar work, on side one, this is always a good confidence booster.

Vernon Kemp & Gillian Cook

Vernon, assisted by Gillian Cook, showed us two groups in Slow Foxtrot and Quickstep making use of the points illustrated above.

This lecture gave us much food for thought about the suitability of variations used in the Gold Star Grades.

Betty Bouston

Sequence, Alternative Rhythms and DFR Lectures

Following out the experimental format of a 'Mixed Faculty' Spring Congress, our second lecture was devoted to two Social Sequence dances, The Anfield Swing and Mambo Magic.

Presented in his customary relaxed and apparently effortless manner by Nicky Miles, these dances were a great success with the audience. The floor was packed as everyone tried to find a space to learn first of all The Anfield Swing, a sequence which rolls along easily, and which is most enjoyable to dance.

Nicky Miles & Edita Doncakova

Thanks to Nicky's excellent and amusing teaching 'jingles' and the catchy music, the large company of dancers thoroughly enjoyed themselves, a fact made evident by the smiling faces and the happy hubbub of conversation as they made their way off the floor. They weren't allowed to relax for long though as Nicky quickly had them all back on the floor to tackle Mambo Magic. This dance was rather more challenging as it was quite a test of memory, and there was much laughter as dancers, including me, struggled to remember what came next! Again, great fun to dance, and both sequences will be tremendously useful in our schools.

A first class lecture presented by Nicky Miles with warmth and humour and in inimitable style.

We returned from the coffee break to an Alternative Rhythms lecture in which Ralph Schiller and Kele Baker presented the Milonga, a dance which Ralph explained originated in Argentina and which was the forerunner of the Tango. The similarities in the basic steps of the two dances were apparent as the two lecturers took it in turn to explain and teach the figures. Demonstrating several syncopated movements, Kele warned the gentlemen that as there was no set step order or timing, they were 'in charge' and that it was up to them to lead. Judging by the hilarity that ensued when the large class tried to put this into practise, this was not always happening, and much happy confusion ensued.

Ralph Schiller & Kele Baker

Again, a most enjoyable and informative lecture.

Our third 'other Faculties' lecture was presented by the DFR Committee, and introduced by the Chairman, Yvonne Taylor-Hill. Paul Streatfield, the only gentleman on this committee, then presented his lady colleagues, 'The Girls', and the entire committee demonstrated three first class social line dances. There was an immediate buzz of enthusiastic anticipation as dancers flocked on to the floor to join in. Great music, a wonderful, lively atmosphere and, of course, skilful teaching from Yvonne Taylor-Hill and Betty Bouston.

Yvonne Taylor-Hill & DFR Committee

Excellent routines, well choreographed, and exactly right for any social class or party. A fitting finale to our 'other Faculties' lectures at this Congress.

This year's mixed Faculty programme was arranged after members had been asked to choose from a selection of proposed new Spring Congress formats. Judging by the enthusiasm with which each of the lectures was received, and the packed floor throughout the day, the experiment was a tremendous success. I'm already looking forward to next year.

Margaret Connon

Latin American Lectures

The first Latin American lecture of the day was provided by Lorraine Kuznik, assisted by her partner Neil Dewer.

Lorraine Kuznik & Neil Dewer

Lorraine's expertise in putting together and presenting teachable class variations was very evident as she demonstrated and taught one variation in the Rumba and Samba. Both were developments from our existing basic figures with interesting use of arms, which goes to show that complexity is not required to produce interesting choreography. With this type of work it is possible to see the development of rhythmical expression.

Simon & Heidi Cruwys

The second of the Latin lectures came from Simon Cruwys, assisted by sister and partner, Heidi. Their task was to show Gold Star 1 variations, which they did admirably. The groups given were in Samba and Jive. Simon incorporated his sense of humour to show how much fun can be derived from our form of dancing. This was Simon's debut lecturing in the Latin idiom, and from this there is no doubt that we will see him lecture many more times in the future.

Marion Lane & Mark Willemite

The last Latin lecture and in fact the last lecture of the day, and also a debut for the Latin branch, was Marion Lane, assisted by the debonair Mark Willemite. Marion gave us a group in Cha Cha Cha and Paso Doble eminently suitable for class teaching. Her charming personality is a lesson to us all on how to enthuse your class pupils. I particularly liked the Paso Doble that maintained hold throughout, thereby providing the opportunity to use the shaping as described in the new Paso Doble technique.

Graham Oswick
All Photographs: Ron Self

Back to top

Dinner Dance

Royal Lancaster Hotel, London • Sunday 17th March 2002

Following an action packed day at both the Dancesport and Theatre Spring Congress both faculties came together in the evening for the annual Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing Dinner Dance, held in the luxurious setting of the Nine Kings Suite, Royal Lancaster Hotel, London.

Robert Grover, ISTD Chairman & Patricia Prime, ISTD Vice Chairman

Invited guests, members and their friends assembled in the reception area shortly after 6.30pm, all welcomed by Robert Grover, Chairman of the ISTD and Patricia Prime, Vice Chairman of the ISTD . There was a full house, numbers exceeded previous years all catered for by the superb staff of the Royal Lancaster. At this time you get caught by the famous Imperial society raffle sellers keen to sell as many tickets as they can with the proceeds going to the ISTD Benevolent fund. This year nearly £1000 pounds was raised. A tremendous job - well done to all those that helped sell tickets.

After an enjoyable dinner, each guest receiving a complimentary calculator, the Chairman Mr Robert Grover, officially welcomed the invited guests, members and friends. Mr Keith Jones, Chairman of the NATD, made the response, on behalf of the guests. Mr Jones spoke about the QCA government recognition that the ISTD has recently been awarded. He paid tribute to the tremendous work carried out, seeing the ISTD as a forerunner and a catalyst for others to follow.

(R-L) Cathy Browne, Head of UK Examinations & Membership Services, Keith Jones, NATD President & Guest Speaker with guest, Michael Browne, ISTD Chief Executive & Doreen Wells, Marchioness of Londonderry

The Annual Dinner Dance is always the occasion when the Imperial awards are presented. Mrs Patricia Prime introduced the winner of the Imperial Theatre Award, Miss Heather Fish, Vice Chairman of the Imperial Ballet Faculty. Miss Joyce Percy, who everyone was delighted to see, having spent a period of time in hospital, presented this award to Heather.

Joyce Percy (left) presents the Imperial Theatre Award to Heather Fish

Mr Robert Grover went on to introduce the winner of the Dancesport award, Miss Joan Field. Joan has been an ISTD Committee member for over 42 years and also serves on the British Dance Council Sequence advisory Committee. A very dedicated member of the Society and a worthy recipient.

Joan Field, winner of the Imperial Dance Sport Award with Robert Grover & Peggy Spencer MBE, ISTD Vice President

The final Award was the International Award. Presented by Pat Crail, this was received by Christina Mackay, from Ottawa Canada, who is the ISTD organizer for Eastern Canada and the USA.

Christine McKay receiving the Imperial International Award from Patricia Crail

One of the features introduced by Mr Grover at the dinner was to make the speeches and awards short, making more time for dancing. A very welcomed feature, as the floor was soon full of dancers enjoying the music of Ross Mitchell, his Band and Singers. The floor stayed full until the demonstration was announced. A highlight of these Imperial functions is always the high-class cabaret. This year Michael Wentink and Beata provided all the correct ingredients. A superb blend of high class dancing coupled with that element of show so often seen today. All those present warmly received their superb show.

Michael Wentink & Beata performing at the Dinner Dancel

Soon the dance floor was once again full with people enjoying the live music. All too soon the midnight hour approached and it was time to say our good byes. Another Imperial Dinner Dance once again presented in the custom you would expect.

Nicky Miles

Back to top