MODERN WALTZ

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 80, 7 August 1945, Page 6

MODERN WALTZ

CHAMPIONSHIP DECIDED There were more than 300 people at the Velma Hall recently when a iliodern waltz championship was held. In the early part of the evening a (juickstep contest, arranged especially for young members of the Blue Bird Club was run ’ off, the winners being Evelyn Ford and Ted Roberts. Mr Jimmy James, a dancing teacher from Wellington, judged the closely contested modern waltz championship. From the 6 couples left in the semifinals, he chose 3 to participate in the final. The standard and general appearance of all three couples was very high indeed and only a few marks separated first, second and third placings. Though their dancing was very smooth Mr and Mrs Mangos, who were placed third, lost points by the lack of rise and fall, which is important to the expression of the modern waltz. Tl\e second place went to Velma Price and Noel ’Styles, whose animated style and display of difficult variations appealed immensely. Points were lost here by a sharpness in the rise which tended to make the dancing look bumpy. Patricia Murphy and Clifford Abrahams, who were placed first, gained this position by sheer smooth correctness and a choice of simple flowing variations which were a true interpretation of the dance. A treat for Nelson dancers was an exhibition of the Tango performed by Ivy Biberstein and Jimmy James. The two professionals gave a polished performance which was warmly applauded. A shield, which had been donated by the R.N.Z.A.F. Hobbies Club, and the prizes and certificates were presented by Wing Commander A. T, Giles.