MODERN DANCING

Dominion, Volume 26, Issue 171, 15 April 1933, Page 18

MODERN DANCING

The Art of Demonstration NEED FOR “PERSONALITY” (By “Rhythm”). Personality is a factor of great importance to the dance demonstrator. I have seen two demonstrations in two successive weeks at the same cabaret. The first performer gave a finished exhibition, displaying excellent technique; she received only perfunctory applause. The following week a student from another studio, who demonstrated the same dances had to refuse a third encore, owing to pressure of time. The explanation is this: The first performer, although an excellent dancer, was devoid of personality and "stage” appearance. The latter, though technically not so proficient, had those two important qualities in large measure. All demonstrators should endeavour to give heed to their individuality and to their dressing of the character they are to portray. Further, create the impression that you are enjoying your own performance, and the audience will enjoy it with you. Even a fixed smile is better than none at all. Last of all. put plenty of rigour into your movements. Act confidently, and vou will soon feel confident. Strive for this fundamental and technique and general ability will be acquired naturally . Novel Fancy Dresses., An interesting variation of the fancydress dance was held in Christchurch recently. Those who attended were dressed as characters from nursery rhymes. Among the characters represented were: Old King Cole, Dick Whittington. Simple Simon, Tommy Tucker, Boy Blue, lied Riding Hood, and Miss Muffet. Perhaps some Wellingtonians with dances or parties in view might adopt the idea, as an addition to the usual novelties. The Joy of Movement. “I cannot see that in the ballet dancing is merely an equal partner with music and decor. Dancing is an end in itself. The true lover of dancing will find pleasure in a simple movement. It is a fallacy to imagine that the repertoire of steps available to a dancer are monotonous without the help of exciting music and costume,” says Arnold Haskell, in the "Dancing Times”. "A pirouette performed by a fine artist is not only beautiful in line—surely an aim in itself—but can also be deeply significant and expressive.” Popular Dance Melodies. Prominent among the more popular waltz tunes at present is “Masquerade,” available on Regal records. It is possessed of a haunting melody, and an attractive and somewhat unusual rhythm. It unfortunately has the fault common to many waltz recordings, namely, to fast a tempo, but suitable orchestrations should be readily available for local dance bands. Cabaret and Studio. Mis s Gwenethe Walshe provides personal and individual tuition in the modern dances, including the Rumba, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Evening classes are held twice weekly, the beginners’ class being on Friday, and the advanced on Tuesday. The Mayfair Cabaret is steadily gaining popularity as a rendezvous at which to spend the evening. There will be the usual session this evening, when the Highhatters’ Band will provide enjoyable music and high-class novltics will enliven the programme. The Margaret O’Connor Studio of Dancing is one of New Zealand’s leading studios of ballroom dancing. Classes nre held on Tuesdays and Fridays, and private lessons may be had by appointment. Special tuition in the Rumba is provided. Southern .College underthkes to teach quickly any dance desired. Classes are held twice a week and private 'tuition is available daily. David Devitt, who has had seven years’ theatrical experience, teaches all phases of modern and classical dancing, fencing, and specialises in tapping. Private lessons may be had bv appointment. Miss Mona Buckley uses the latest London methods in training pupils for the stage and public performance. She is certified in all branches of dancing.