Again friends, sorry for my lack of a post last week! Here's another double...
Week ten was pretty chill. I had two awesome sessions with Heather, and was supposed to have two awesome sessions with Max, but I had to cancel one because I was struck by a bad case of food poisoning. Any other time I have had food poisoning it has only lasted the one day, but not this time. One day out one direction, the next day the other, and the next day couldn't really digest any food normally, so needless to say, I have felt pretty weak lately. Because of this, my week was limited in shenanigans.
With Heather I relearned Buster Brown's Fascinating Rhythm/Just You Just Me, and started learning Eddie's blues. The thing about this rep is that you really can work on it for a life time and still find challenges. Knowing this whilst learning it gave me a bit of ease, but I am still so anxious to absorb the work! Patience... what a lesson. Its also frustrating knowing all of the adjustments to my technical work I need to face and approaching new material at the same time. It takes away an element of self trust in my learning process. Its strange to deal with, I'm very much in transition.
From Max I kept learning new patterns that circulate with the material I learned last week. There are always continuations in a progression and many different layers to fill in. So interesting, and challenging. I am so excited for all of this language to flow out of me influencing and interpolating into my creativity. My brain has been cracked open, nourished, and inspired.
On Thursday my friend Shauna Hoskin invited me to come see a run of Young Frankenstein. She's in the national touring company which will start this week. The show was on Broadway last season, it was a new Mel Brooks musical that closed in January. It was a great show! I am sad I didn't see it last year when I was here. So, right before the run started, I rushed in because I was running late, and just found the closest seat as fast as possible. Little did I know until the end was I sitting infront of Susan Stroman. For those that don't know, this woman is a broadway powerhouse. She is it, in many ways as far as I'm concerned for music theatre choreographers in the last 15 years on Broadway. Look her up, her work is insane! I sat infront of her for 2 hours and didn't even know until the end...my heart dropped a bit when I figured that out. Its almost like we hung out...right?? haha.
On Friday my friend Shaeffer who I know from Toronto via my excellent friend Kendyl, invited me out for dinner. We went to the restaurant where her husband has been the head chef for a few months now, and the food was pretty much the best meal I have had as long as I can remember. Seriously. She is originally from Alberta too, so she had 3 friends visiting, and thought I must come make the Alberta connection! So glad I did, it was such a nice night. On the way home I ended up bringing 2 of her friends to Fatcat and ending my night with another crazy time of beer and ping pong in NYC. Of course I can't just take er easy. Well, not when the opportunity for an emmense amount of fun arises! =)
Saturday I went for dinner with Allison Plamondon, and then we went to see a play off Broadway. We saw Epic Theatre Ensemble's Mahida's Extra Key to Heaven, and it was awful! We left at intermission. We were both so exhausted that day anyway, but it was crazy painful to try and keep our eyes open during the first act, so we decided to relieve ourselves of the torture. Its funny, I still expect everything I see in New York to be good, basically just because its New York! I have never walked out of a show here before. I was very happy to spend time with my wonderful friend, but man, what a disappointment!
Week eleven...
On Monday I had a session with Max, awesome as always, went to Michelle Dorrance's class, also bomb, and then finally went up to the Cotton Club to check out big band night! Lisa LaTouche dances with Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards and her husband Omar every Monday. My friend Awoye also dances with them. It was awesome. It was such an authentic Harlem experience. It was pretty cool to sit in a legendary club, and watch tap as the main event. Pretty cool to see Lisa killing it! Such a big fan. She's so great, and such an amazing person. I hung out with her, and also ran into Joel Hanna who was in town. I met Joel in Vancouver. He is the only percussive dancer from Vancouver to ever have a run at the Joyce in New York. He combines step with tap and martial arts. His work is like nothing else, and as a person, so is he! Strong personality, but really nice, awesome guy. Inspiring in many ways. I felt pretty lucky to be in the company of these two Canadian powerhouses. We all hung out in Vancouver also with Dean Ozen! Excellent people, so fortunate to know them, and have time to hang.
On Tuesday I had a date. Yes, a New York date! The funny thing is that he isn't American, he's British. I met him at the dinner that Shaeffer invited me to. He went to U of A, so he is friends with one of Shaeffer's Alberta visitors. What can I really say about it in my blog? haha. What if he decides to google me and reads this??...thats embarresing. I'll just say that we hung out again on Saturday, and he is really nice, and I like him. That's all. haaa.
Wednesday was one of my favourite New York days yet. I went to see Alan Cumming perform at Barnes and Noble for his cd release and signing. I went for Rob, because he is one of Rob's biggest influences and inspirations. It was really cool to see him and meet him after his performance. I had a picture taken, but questioned it...because well, I couldn't resist, however, that could inspire a wack of jealousy for Rob to see me with his hero in a picture. It would make me crazy if the tables were turned!! I think the gift I got Rob will make up for it, but again, can't get into it on my blog because he just may read this. After that I headed over to City Centre to get in the cancellation line for the Fall For Dance Festival. SAVION was performing, and of course it was all sold out. I waited for an hour and half, and scored myself a ticket!! I SAW SAVION LIVE! It was sickening. I don't think I have ever experienced chills like this before. My entire body reacted to watching and listening to this. Throughout the festival 4 dance companies perform each night, and Savion closed the show. What was shocking to me is that I saw a handfull of groups leave during his performance. HOW COULD ANYONE LEAVE DURING THAT? Wack. He had the most massive applause, the entire audience was on their feet screaming! What I don't understand is how an audience can go see a multi form dance show and demonstrate the most support for tap, yet there is such little support for it in the world....???? Whaaaaat? The thing that can blow people's minds to that capacity doesn't have nearly enough recognition, but a ballet or contemporary dancer can go to a University program to major in their artform, and have the likelihood to dance in a professional company being funded by supporters, and government grants. Then go on to dance in these companies that have seasons guaranteeing them performances, all the while gaining a stronger sense of a chance at sustaining a professional life as a dancer. Now, I am not knocking other dance forms. I love all dance forms and believe any artform takes a wealth of determination and unfathomable hard work, and not for a second do I think one artist has it easier than another. I just witnessed a very intense experience with some baffling observations, thats all. But hey, that's a large part in what I am working towards. Changing tap's reputation amongst the status quo/the common public's understanding of it, developing a strong community, and staying true and authentic to an artform that needs to be celebrated and EXPOSED.
On the way home from seeing Savion, I was starving because I waited in that line and didn't really get to eat anything. So I got a sandwich and made my way to the subway. On the way I walked through Times Square, and whilst chewing, a man jumped out infront of me, and kindof trapped me from moving forward. He was asked where I got my hair done, with my mouth full, I said Canada, without any sense of sincerity he told me he thought I was beautiful, and that he loved me. He was trying to sell me a promotion that was going on at his salon...this happens all the time in New York, Toronto too actually, but never in this fashion! So, I tried to pass him and continue on my way, and he was like "why are you trying to run from me, I just told you I loved you." ...??? what! So, I had to deek him to get back on my way and as I continued, he yelled at me in Times Square calling me a racist Canadian....again....what??? why, because I don't respond to poorly executed agressive American consumerism? What a day. Ridiculous.
On Thursday I had another vocal lesson with Jay Clayton. It was awesome. Its really amazing to connect vocally again, especially in a way that will completely contribute to my dancing. It feels so good, and I am so glad that I got that happening again for myself.
Friday I had a session with Heather. She is currently getting all of the mould removed from her studio because there was some water dammage a while back, and she is pretty allergic to it. So, because the floor was not usable, we had a lesson outside on a tap mat. It was probably my favourite session yet. It was so beautiful out, and there is something so calming and celebratory about working artistically in nature. Pretty awesome. Nature you're thinking...in New York?? I don't know if I mentioned in previous entries that Heather lives in Valley Cottage which is about an hour out of the city, and its pretty beautiful. Her house is incredible, and the land she lives on is pretty amazing. It was awesome. Then when I got back into the city, I went and took Derek Grant's class, who is finally back in town for my last 2 weeks!
Saturday was another hilarious day. After exploring Williamsburg a bit, and spending 4 hours at Lincoln Centre Library I had another ridiculous New York experience. Last weekend the 4 and 5 trains weren't running in Brooklyn, so we had an announcement on the train that we needed to transfer. With this news I met a lady with a 3 month old baby, and another girl who was visiting for the weekend and didn't really know how to get around. So, of course I helped them out. In this endeavour of transfering trains and walking underground to make connections, the lady with the baby HANDED me her baby...what are you supposed to do when a person is in the process of handing you a baby and saying "do you want to hold her?" You can't say no, especially when the question is placed in the midst of the exchange. So, this lady trusted me, a complete stranger...a nice one, but still, trusted me with a life. THEN...as I am holding the baby, she's hungry and starts clawing for my breast...those may be big, but most definitely free of milk!!! So, the lady hands me a bottle...now I am feeding this baby and walking through a subway station in NYC....whaaaat?? My process: thought #1 OMG don't drop this stranger's baby, thought #2 I'm so nowhere near ready to be a mother, thought #3, WTF lady?? How about I hold your 3 bags and YOU hold and FEED your own damn baby!!! Unbelievable. Another one of a kind day.
On Sunday I went to Barbara Duffy's class, and then got to see Sheena for a short visit before she had to get back on the ship, then I had a drum lesson with Dan Weiss! It was a wicked lesson. I have been after him for a lesson for a long time, and finally got it! He is probably the most proficient, technically incredible and musically interesting drummer I have ever been exposed to. He's played at The Rex a lot, and I have gone to see him play with Dave Binney many times here at 55 Bar. So, first of all, due to the craziness of everything else, I haven't practiced or played drums since I came here. So the kit felt very unfamiliar, and on top of that, he wouldn't let me read any lines or use my book. I just had to play something, which shouldn't be a big deal, but I felt kind of trapped. So, of course the first thing I played was a groove that's really challenging for me. It was cool though, he gave me some elaborations on it, and also some technical adjustments that were helpful. For the second half of the lesson I put my shoes on, and we just focused on music. We did some call and response, and he also gave me some ideas to create some excersises for myself dealing with time signature flips and speed. I got a little nervous in my shoes dancing across from this guy who I find extremely musically intimidating, I forgot for a minute that he was my friend. It was such a great lesson though, especially the amount that I got from a non tap dancer. The kind of detail that I was forced to pay attention to was a shift, and is totally what I am after. Totally awesome. I can't wait to study further with him.
I can't stop emphasizing how fortunate I feel for the incredible knowledge that I am gaining from all of these amazing teachers. And again, I can't wait to spend some serious time pracitcing when I get home!! That is in a week...my next entry will be from my living room in Toronto summarizing the last week and the whole shebang. Leaving is so bittersweet. Till I get into it next entry...
at xo
Monday, September 28, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
Week Nine
Wow, week nine...really? Why does it never cease to amaze us how time flies, sky rockets, jolts by when we are focused, happy? Crazy.
So, coming back from Vancouver was kind of a strange transition. I guess my body needed some rest! I couldn't just jump back into everything, at first I felt it was weird and then took a moment to realize everything that I have been doing for two months straight. I just needed a small fraction of down time! It didn't last long, but my body demanded a break!
In mentioning Vancouver, right off the top I should let you know that I have been offered a position to dance in the 2010 Olympic opening ceremonies. I'm pretty excited about it! Mostly because I get to reconnect with the tap fam from Van and move forward working together as a kickass Canadian unit! Well... and everything else that goes with dancing at a massive global event! Much looking forward to that experience!
My week started with taking Lynn Schwab's class. She dances with Max and Barbara's companies, and I have known about her for a while, but have never checked out her class. I am so glad I did. She's a great teacher. Really takes the time to suss out detail, and pay attention to specifics individually. I didn't take too much class last week because I was extremely focused on practicing for my upcoming two days with Max. So, this is the best...I practice to a pretty solid point that I feel I really have the material from the last sessions, and when I show him the success in what I've been working on, immediately he throws in yet another counter point. Really?? Yep, you think you have begun to master something that once seemed impossible, then it instantly goes right back down to impossible! No worries, no defeat, just more challenge! LOVE IT. To give you an idea of what I was dealing with: we're in 6/8, my feet are holding down 1 and 5, my right hand is holding down 3 and 6 on my leg, and my left hand is holding down a clave (2 bars = 1 3 5/2 4) on my chest....and when I got that, he throws in singing triplets accenting the ones over top. After a little bit of time practicing on my own, I have it now. =) Its incredible how much you can build on an idea when you find the complexities within a phrase. My mind is being stretched!!! I just can't tell you enough how incredible Max is! Such a wonderful teacher and brilliant artist. I really truly cherish my time with him. I get another round of two days this week, but before Max again I see Heather for two days. I also hope to book a drum and vocal lesson this week. Cramming it all in before I go!
On Thursday night I got the privilege to go see my treasured friend, teacher, and student Dave Clark play at the Miller Theatre with The Happiness Project. I saw this band at their label's party at NxNE (north by north east) music festival in Toronto, but was so happy to see it again and in New York! This band is one of Charles Spearin's side projects, he plays in Broken Social Scene. So for this project, Charles interviewed his neighbours, his daughter, his friends, all asking what happiness means to them. He then composed music inspired by the musical quality of their vocal patterns, and weaved in and out of the compositions looping the spoken track within the live music. Such a cool concept, AMAZING music, and really wicked musicians. It was great to see Dave and another friend Karen Ing play with them! I also ran into Myk Freedman who played guitar in my last show and hooked me up with my roommate in New York. It was a nice little reunion of sorts! So awesome to catch up with Dave. He is such a great inspiration and huge support to me. How great to meet up with him in the middle of this experience!
After the show, my friend Jen and I went to meet up with my friend Mike League at 55 Bar to see Tim Lefebvre play. Mike and Tim have both played at The Rex, Mike with Snarky Puppy, Tim with Rudder. I wrote about seeing Rudder a few weeks ago here in New York. All these musicians I get to hang with here just cuz I made friends at work in Toronto. Awesome!
The next night, Jen asked me to come out to a jam in Jersey. Jen is my friend who's into capoeira, and at the centre where she practices there was a little event! Every three or four months there is an arts event in Jersey City called JC Nights, and all of the local bars, art galleries, event spaces, and community centres throw special events as a celebration of arts in the community. So, at the centre there were salsa dancers, musicians, capoeira, break dancers, modern dancers, a belly dancer, and us tapping. It was a totally fun time and really great group of people. Everyone was so into each other's scene! So much support in the room of a group of strangers. Really glad I got the chance to dance and hang with these people.
On Saturday I had quite the treat! My friend Sheena was here! She is currently singing on a cruise ship and it ports out of New York for the next month and a half. So with the exception of last Saturday, every Sunday between the hours of 8am and 3pm I get to hang out with my girl! We'll go for breakfast, I'll go to a class, then we'll hang some more! How wonderful! Too bad that she won't be able to see any shows in that time frame, but we did go see Hair on Saturday. Y'know, I didn't love it. I was really looking forward to seeing it, but I don't know, it just didn't rise to the same level as The Toxic Avenger and Next to Normal. The music was incredible, the voices were stunning, the set was cool, the whole energy of it all was amazing, but it just didn't blow me away. Maybe if I would have seen it before the other two shows that did, it may have been a different story. Who knows? Also, there was an understudy for Will Swenson who plays Berger. Sometimes understudies are brilliant, they're on Broadway for a reason, but Berger has a really specific charisma that I don't think was met. I just didn't believe him. I'd like to try winning lottery tickets for it. That way it would only cost $25, and I could experience the whole show again. Sheena and I meant to try the lottery, but we were late! They were already calling names when we got to the theatre. Too bad, cuz I have excellent luck with Broadway lotteries!
After the show Sheena wanted to check out a cabaret bar, so I took her to Don't Tell Mama's on west 46th street. I have been there a few times, its a fun little place. There is a pianist for the night, people get up and sing tunes, and the bartenders have mic stands on the bar so they can sing backups. Sheena was going to get up, but she bailed. Probably because we got a little bit drunk. Only 2 martinis each, but when you have taken a hiatus from the booze, the liquor hits quicker, by far! On the way to the subway we had a little jump shot photo shoot in front of times square. This gaggle of teenage boys wanted in and tried to help us take it, but the results were not excellent. They were taken on Sheena's camera, so I will post them when she sends them to me. When we headed home, had found ourselves in a dance session on the subway platform! We were serenaded by a new friend playing a keyboard and singing Stevie Wonder tunes, and totally in dance party mode with the other listeners whilst waiting for the subway. Spontaneous excellence, really. The ride home was also interesting. We made more friends at 2am. Do we ever stop making new friends?? I might have a problem in the amount of joy talking to strangers brings me. I hope it doesn't get me in trouble one day. I had such a great time with Sheena, and am so happy I get it all again on Sunday! A magnificent bonus!
On Sunday I went exploring in Brooklyn. I know my way around Manhattan pretty well for the most part. Its where I spend most of my time and the only part of New York I have visited in the past. I hadn't yet taken the time to really explore further than the local spots in my area. So, I took the afternoon and discovered Brooklyn, some of it anyway! I love figuring out where I am and how to get around without asking anyone. It was a totally fun three hour walking excursion. I ended up at kinkos, printed some pictures, documents, and got my contract faxed in. Then went and bought some groceries, made my way home and had a super chill night. Just what I needed! I got chatting with my new friend, an actual new friend, Dean Ozen who I met in Vancouver. He's been really active in keeping the momentum of the conference running. He created a facebook group called The Tap Dancers Network of Canada. If you are a tap dancer or tap dance lover who would like to be involved, look it up and ask to be added. Its a closed group so I cannot just invited people to it, but its very well worth joining to be a part of the initiative amongst the national community! Dean has put forth a lot of effort, and is a very driven performer himself. We have very inspiring chats, and he blogs every day! He wrote a blog entry with a focus on me this week, which was so kind! Such a great human, so glad we met! Check out his blog: www.jazzyhoofer.wordpress.com Yaaaaa tap blogs!
So, that was my week. Sorry I am a little late writing again! I started on writing on Monday, but needed to head to bed to wake up for my day with Heather. So, next week I will fill you in on the last two days and the rest of the week. Till then....
at xo
So, coming back from Vancouver was kind of a strange transition. I guess my body needed some rest! I couldn't just jump back into everything, at first I felt it was weird and then took a moment to realize everything that I have been doing for two months straight. I just needed a small fraction of down time! It didn't last long, but my body demanded a break!
In mentioning Vancouver, right off the top I should let you know that I have been offered a position to dance in the 2010 Olympic opening ceremonies. I'm pretty excited about it! Mostly because I get to reconnect with the tap fam from Van and move forward working together as a kickass Canadian unit! Well... and everything else that goes with dancing at a massive global event! Much looking forward to that experience!
My week started with taking Lynn Schwab's class. She dances with Max and Barbara's companies, and I have known about her for a while, but have never checked out her class. I am so glad I did. She's a great teacher. Really takes the time to suss out detail, and pay attention to specifics individually. I didn't take too much class last week because I was extremely focused on practicing for my upcoming two days with Max. So, this is the best...I practice to a pretty solid point that I feel I really have the material from the last sessions, and when I show him the success in what I've been working on, immediately he throws in yet another counter point. Really?? Yep, you think you have begun to master something that once seemed impossible, then it instantly goes right back down to impossible! No worries, no defeat, just more challenge! LOVE IT. To give you an idea of what I was dealing with: we're in 6/8, my feet are holding down 1 and 5, my right hand is holding down 3 and 6 on my leg, and my left hand is holding down a clave (2 bars = 1 3 5/2 4) on my chest....and when I got that, he throws in singing triplets accenting the ones over top. After a little bit of time practicing on my own, I have it now. =) Its incredible how much you can build on an idea when you find the complexities within a phrase. My mind is being stretched!!! I just can't tell you enough how incredible Max is! Such a wonderful teacher and brilliant artist. I really truly cherish my time with him. I get another round of two days this week, but before Max again I see Heather for two days. I also hope to book a drum and vocal lesson this week. Cramming it all in before I go!
On Thursday night I got the privilege to go see my treasured friend, teacher, and student Dave Clark play at the Miller Theatre with The Happiness Project. I saw this band at their label's party at NxNE (north by north east) music festival in Toronto, but was so happy to see it again and in New York! This band is one of Charles Spearin's side projects, he plays in Broken Social Scene. So for this project, Charles interviewed his neighbours, his daughter, his friends, all asking what happiness means to them. He then composed music inspired by the musical quality of their vocal patterns, and weaved in and out of the compositions looping the spoken track within the live music. Such a cool concept, AMAZING music, and really wicked musicians. It was great to see Dave and another friend Karen Ing play with them! I also ran into Myk Freedman who played guitar in my last show and hooked me up with my roommate in New York. It was a nice little reunion of sorts! So awesome to catch up with Dave. He is such a great inspiration and huge support to me. How great to meet up with him in the middle of this experience!
After the show, my friend Jen and I went to meet up with my friend Mike League at 55 Bar to see Tim Lefebvre play. Mike and Tim have both played at The Rex, Mike with Snarky Puppy, Tim with Rudder. I wrote about seeing Rudder a few weeks ago here in New York. All these musicians I get to hang with here just cuz I made friends at work in Toronto. Awesome!
The next night, Jen asked me to come out to a jam in Jersey. Jen is my friend who's into capoeira, and at the centre where she practices there was a little event! Every three or four months there is an arts event in Jersey City called JC Nights, and all of the local bars, art galleries, event spaces, and community centres throw special events as a celebration of arts in the community. So, at the centre there were salsa dancers, musicians, capoeira, break dancers, modern dancers, a belly dancer, and us tapping. It was a totally fun time and really great group of people. Everyone was so into each other's scene! So much support in the room of a group of strangers. Really glad I got the chance to dance and hang with these people.
On Saturday I had quite the treat! My friend Sheena was here! She is currently singing on a cruise ship and it ports out of New York for the next month and a half. So with the exception of last Saturday, every Sunday between the hours of 8am and 3pm I get to hang out with my girl! We'll go for breakfast, I'll go to a class, then we'll hang some more! How wonderful! Too bad that she won't be able to see any shows in that time frame, but we did go see Hair on Saturday. Y'know, I didn't love it. I was really looking forward to seeing it, but I don't know, it just didn't rise to the same level as The Toxic Avenger and Next to Normal. The music was incredible, the voices were stunning, the set was cool, the whole energy of it all was amazing, but it just didn't blow me away. Maybe if I would have seen it before the other two shows that did, it may have been a different story. Who knows? Also, there was an understudy for Will Swenson who plays Berger. Sometimes understudies are brilliant, they're on Broadway for a reason, but Berger has a really specific charisma that I don't think was met. I just didn't believe him. I'd like to try winning lottery tickets for it. That way it would only cost $25, and I could experience the whole show again. Sheena and I meant to try the lottery, but we were late! They were already calling names when we got to the theatre. Too bad, cuz I have excellent luck with Broadway lotteries!
After the show Sheena wanted to check out a cabaret bar, so I took her to Don't Tell Mama's on west 46th street. I have been there a few times, its a fun little place. There is a pianist for the night, people get up and sing tunes, and the bartenders have mic stands on the bar so they can sing backups. Sheena was going to get up, but she bailed. Probably because we got a little bit drunk. Only 2 martinis each, but when you have taken a hiatus from the booze, the liquor hits quicker, by far! On the way to the subway we had a little jump shot photo shoot in front of times square. This gaggle of teenage boys wanted in and tried to help us take it, but the results were not excellent. They were taken on Sheena's camera, so I will post them when she sends them to me. When we headed home, had found ourselves in a dance session on the subway platform! We were serenaded by a new friend playing a keyboard and singing Stevie Wonder tunes, and totally in dance party mode with the other listeners whilst waiting for the subway. Spontaneous excellence, really. The ride home was also interesting. We made more friends at 2am. Do we ever stop making new friends?? I might have a problem in the amount of joy talking to strangers brings me. I hope it doesn't get me in trouble one day. I had such a great time with Sheena, and am so happy I get it all again on Sunday! A magnificent bonus!
On Sunday I went exploring in Brooklyn. I know my way around Manhattan pretty well for the most part. Its where I spend most of my time and the only part of New York I have visited in the past. I hadn't yet taken the time to really explore further than the local spots in my area. So, I took the afternoon and discovered Brooklyn, some of it anyway! I love figuring out where I am and how to get around without asking anyone. It was a totally fun three hour walking excursion. I ended up at kinkos, printed some pictures, documents, and got my contract faxed in. Then went and bought some groceries, made my way home and had a super chill night. Just what I needed! I got chatting with my new friend, an actual new friend, Dean Ozen who I met in Vancouver. He's been really active in keeping the momentum of the conference running. He created a facebook group called The Tap Dancers Network of Canada. If you are a tap dancer or tap dance lover who would like to be involved, look it up and ask to be added. Its a closed group so I cannot just invited people to it, but its very well worth joining to be a part of the initiative amongst the national community! Dean has put forth a lot of effort, and is a very driven performer himself. We have very inspiring chats, and he blogs every day! He wrote a blog entry with a focus on me this week, which was so kind! Such a great human, so glad we met! Check out his blog: www.jazzyhoofer.wordpress.com Yaaaaa tap blogs!
So, that was my week. Sorry I am a little late writing again! I started on writing on Monday, but needed to head to bed to wake up for my day with Heather. So, next week I will fill you in on the last two days and the rest of the week. Till then....
at xo
Monday, September 7, 2009
Week Seven & Eight
Week seven was pretty focused on preparing for the audition in Vancouver. I was told choreography would be given to me in the audition, but still to had a solo prepared just in case they wanted to see more, being that I was from out of town. So, of course, for some sick reason, I can't ever use something that I already have, I need to create something new! It was awesome, brought me a little bit of stress, but it was really fun to break away a little bit from what I've been working on, and create something new with some music I absolutely love! I used this piece called "The World Is Getting Smaller" by a band from Texas called Snarky Puppy who have played shows at The Rex. I am in love with my new piece! It was a drag that I didn't get to perform it for my audition, but hey, nothing is lost, I have invested in myself and have the beginnings of a new solo!
Also that week I had my first vocal lesson in three years. I had some heavy surgery in 2006. I got my tonsils and adenoids removed, a septoplasty and a turbinate reduction. That was 4 invasive procedures in my face and throat. I didn't look differently after, but it was a painful recovery! Just after the surgery I was studying voice again, but when I left Toronto for Edmonton to do a show in the Fringe that year, I unintentionally left it alone, and haven't really explored my voice since. In the meantime, I have grown quite sensitive about my voice, only because I haven't been exercising it and it still remains something that I really love. It can get frustrating reaching for something that used to naturally be a part of your everyday practice, but since, I can't expect for it to be in shape when I haven't been practicing regularly. So, now I've jumped back in, and it feels great. I had a lesson with Brenda's friend Jay Clayton who I mentioned in my last entry. She comes from the jazz land, not music theatre land, but all in all, the same kind of technical stuff was covered, just from a very different perspective. I liked it! I am really glad to put myself back in practice and am looking forward to studying further with Jay while I'm here. It can only serve my dancing, and also bring back some confidence in another tool that I have neglected.
Best part of the week...ROB'S VISIT! He arrived in the morning on Friday, I practiced for a few hours, and then we took on the town! First we went to go see Final Destination 4 in 3D. That was crazy, and fun! Then we went to see The Toxic Avenger. AMAZING SHOW! We were reeling from the talent of the cast for the rest of the night. There will be a Toronto production of the show coming soon which is exciting, but the quality of the show will completely rely on casting. It can be and will hopefully be amazing, but it also has the potential to be really bad. So, we'll see. Its a perfect show for Toronto audiences. I'm looking forward to see what happens! Following the show we tried to say hi to Nick Cordero, who played Melvin/the Toxic Avenger. Rob and Nick did Theatre Aquarius together in Hamilton! Rob let him know we were coming, so we had plans to say hello, but our timing must have been off, so we missed him. Next we headed to a Mexican restaurant for huge margaritas, and then onward to Fatcat, the jazz bar I mentioned a few weeks back with ping pong, pool, etc. We had an awesome time! We ran into Dean Armstrong, who's ping pong game we crashed, and then hung out with him and his friend for a long while! Then, I ran into Brandi Disterheft, I mentioned her a while back too, great bass player who I know from Toronto. So we just had a blast! We partied!!!!! It felt so great to party with one of my best friends! I felt like I could actually let my guard down, and party like I know I can. hahaha. Its true though, there's nothing like celebrating with the ones you love the most. So, that was quite the birthday!!! The next day we went to see Next to Normal. Now that was a change of pace! Incredible show. We were walking around New York emotionally drained and speechless all afternoon. Shortly after we both had to part, Rob heading back on the bus to Toronto, and I had to head out to JFK to fly to Vancouver. What an incredible birthday gift. we just had the best time, and it really reminded me...as if I need it...but really reminded me how lucky I am to have such wonderful friends. Rob definitely plays for keeps, and who at this point, I really couldn't do without.
Week eight...off to Vancouver!!!
So, firstly, the flight was awesome. Cathay Pacific Airways was a dream! Cheap, comfy, awesome. I kind of dreaded a huge and long flight, but I must say, it was pretty awesome as far as flights go! I arrived, and who welcomed me other than my treasured friend Anna, who I haven't seen in 2 years, wearing her T-shirt that Sandra and I had made for her birthday. Back in March, Sandra and I took a trip to the Walmart portrait studio, dressed up full out in 80's get up, to get our photos taken in an authentic nostalgic fashion for our girl Anna's birthday gift. That was probably one of the funnest experiences I have ever had. It was a total trip to see her wearing it! I wish Sandra could have been there for that moment! Following our long excited greeting, we traveled home, of course accompanied by a to-go container of gin and juice. Its just how we roll. hehehe. We stayed up drinking and chatting till about 4 am, (7am new york time) and Anna had to work at 8am. It didn't go smoothly. I woke up and booked some practice space while she was at work, and in the evening, we took on Vancouver. Now, when any combination of Anna, Sandra and I get together, its going to be loud, and potentially abnoxious. The citizens of Vancouver were half and half on our side. We made some awesome friends, and I may have loudly expressed my distaste in those who didn't appreciate our zest. Regardless of whose feelings were temporarily trampled, be it ours or theirs, we had an excellent time, tearing it up, as per guaranteed. I miss Anna so much. Again, reminder of the awesomeness that is my friends!
Anna left for a climbing trip in California on Tuesday, which was the day of my audition as well as the first day of the Rising Tide: Canadians in Tap conference. I missed her for the rest of my trip, but I was completely fulfilled with what I experienced!
Okay, so firstly, the audition went well. It was awesome to dance in the same room with the people who I had conversed with all day, and friends who I haven't seen in a while! We all had a lot of fun in the audition. Right now, there is some controversy amongst the tap community regarding Vanoc hiring an Australian production company vs a Canadian production company, but I don't really want to get into it in my blog. I may speak about it as it develops in a future entry, but for the purposes of this being the internet and that everything I write is publicly accessible, I don't want to tarnish an opportunity that I would be so grateful to be potentially presented with. Myself, as well as the Canadian tap community, have an extremely positive outlook on the whole situation, as well as lot of respect for those who may present us with the opportunity to dance on the world stage. If anything, to land this job would be amazing if just to be in touch and work with my peers who I met at this conference and move forward with what we are determined to do as professional tap dancers in Canada!
The conference was awesome. It was a pretty incredible experience to be in a room with about 40 other people who shared the same passion and love for an art form which so often gets ignored. In speaking about some issues, I actually surprised myself in that I didn't think I would get so passionate to a point of shaking when I was just involved in discussion. I bring that to my work, but didn't think that would pour out of me at discussion level. This passion we have, its a peculiar and powerful thing. I feel pretty lucky that its rooted so strongly within me. Now to get further on connecting all of that through the emotional level of my dancing...
Anyways, I had debated the choice of taking the trek to Vancouver in the middle of my time in New York...am I ever glad I went. It was the best and smartest thing I could have done for myself. I got completely connected with the people that are also determined to make things happen in Canada. I have never felt such a strong sense of community. I can't imagine not being a part of that. The people I met, who I have been deeply inspired by, will change my life.
I got to connect with my friend Dayna Szyndrowski who was in the fringe show with me in Edmonton 2006. When we did the show, we definitely connected, but since working together we have become very close. Long distance we have maintained a pretty awesome friendship and support for each other over the past three years. This girl is sooooo talented. I have the utmost respect for her, and wish we could be in the same city to actually build on the ideas we share. I truly cherish our hangs! Fingers crossed for the olympics gig....
I also got to reconnect with one my treasured teachers from Edmonton and her daughter who I used to dance with, Gail Ledger and Kelly Cameron. Kelly's married now...feels weird to call her by her new name! Dayna also danced with Gail, but we never really knew each other as kids. Funny how life goes. haa. It was awesome to see them and catch up. We all went for dinner the night I flew back to New York. It was just a really great experience to be able to sit with 3 people who I have had such rich experiences with and look forward to whats next for all of us! Awesome.
Another highlight was meeting Tasha Lawson. This woman moved me to the verge of tears. We got along right off the bat within the conference, but I saw her perform and it changed me. She is currently working on her own vocabulary of body percussion. Surprise surprise, I was inspired. She has created an entire tap vocabulary where she places the sounds on her body instead of using her feet for manipulations. Its kind of weird to describe, and completely different than Max's work, but just like how I feel about Max, everyone needs to see this!!!! She recreated in her new language the famous Atkins/Coles soft shoe "Taking a Chance on Love." It blew my mind!!! To even grasp the capacity of creativity required to execute this completely blew my mind. I'm so glad we're friends now. =)
It was also really wonderful to hang with EVERY CANADIAN that attended Heather's intensive. Amanda Buckingham is an excellent dancer from Vancouver who worked non stop all week! She drove everyone around, danced all day, and pretty much worked till she dropped, all the while carrying herself with grace and an incredible air of positivity. What a great soul. We have become really close in the short time we've known each other and I am looking forward to where that will carry us in the future. She is attending the Music Theatre program at Capilano University right now. I'm about 5 years ahead of her, and man we have some serious parallels. Again, I feel pretty lucky to have come across such excellent people.
It was also pretty special for me to hang with my good friend Travis Knights in Vancouver, amongst these quality people. Every time we hang, or dance, or I see him dance, I am so filled with happiness and inspiration. Truly. He has just got something so special about him, and its really infectious. I can't wait to get back home and dance with him. We have got a lot of work to do!! =)
All in all, the people that I met, the people I reconnected with, have all contributed to the strength and determination I have for making what we do actually happen, successfully in Canada. What a positive, incredible, inspiring experience.
At the end of all of it, I got to have a short visit with my excellent friend Kendyl! We used to work together at Volo in Toronto. She now lives in Montreal going to Concordia University, but is from Van and happened to be there for a few weeks in perfect time to see me! Excellent little finale to my trip! Any time spent with her is a dream.
So, now, back in New York for my final month, slowly polishing off the cheesecake my roommate Jessica so generously gave me for my birthday! The approach...stop eating cheesecake, and take full advantage to everything I can that is uniquely accessible in New York. I need to schedule my time, and budget wisely!!! I'll keep you posted on how that all works out...
till next week....
at xo
Also that week I had my first vocal lesson in three years. I had some heavy surgery in 2006. I got my tonsils and adenoids removed, a septoplasty and a turbinate reduction. That was 4 invasive procedures in my face and throat. I didn't look differently after, but it was a painful recovery! Just after the surgery I was studying voice again, but when I left Toronto for Edmonton to do a show in the Fringe that year, I unintentionally left it alone, and haven't really explored my voice since. In the meantime, I have grown quite sensitive about my voice, only because I haven't been exercising it and it still remains something that I really love. It can get frustrating reaching for something that used to naturally be a part of your everyday practice, but since, I can't expect for it to be in shape when I haven't been practicing regularly. So, now I've jumped back in, and it feels great. I had a lesson with Brenda's friend Jay Clayton who I mentioned in my last entry. She comes from the jazz land, not music theatre land, but all in all, the same kind of technical stuff was covered, just from a very different perspective. I liked it! I am really glad to put myself back in practice and am looking forward to studying further with Jay while I'm here. It can only serve my dancing, and also bring back some confidence in another tool that I have neglected.
Best part of the week...ROB'S VISIT! He arrived in the morning on Friday, I practiced for a few hours, and then we took on the town! First we went to go see Final Destination 4 in 3D. That was crazy, and fun! Then we went to see The Toxic Avenger. AMAZING SHOW! We were reeling from the talent of the cast for the rest of the night. There will be a Toronto production of the show coming soon which is exciting, but the quality of the show will completely rely on casting. It can be and will hopefully be amazing, but it also has the potential to be really bad. So, we'll see. Its a perfect show for Toronto audiences. I'm looking forward to see what happens! Following the show we tried to say hi to Nick Cordero, who played Melvin/the Toxic Avenger. Rob and Nick did Theatre Aquarius together in Hamilton! Rob let him know we were coming, so we had plans to say hello, but our timing must have been off, so we missed him. Next we headed to a Mexican restaurant for huge margaritas, and then onward to Fatcat, the jazz bar I mentioned a few weeks back with ping pong, pool, etc. We had an awesome time! We ran into Dean Armstrong, who's ping pong game we crashed, and then hung out with him and his friend for a long while! Then, I ran into Brandi Disterheft, I mentioned her a while back too, great bass player who I know from Toronto. So we just had a blast! We partied!!!!! It felt so great to party with one of my best friends! I felt like I could actually let my guard down, and party like I know I can. hahaha. Its true though, there's nothing like celebrating with the ones you love the most. So, that was quite the birthday!!! The next day we went to see Next to Normal. Now that was a change of pace! Incredible show. We were walking around New York emotionally drained and speechless all afternoon. Shortly after we both had to part, Rob heading back on the bus to Toronto, and I had to head out to JFK to fly to Vancouver. What an incredible birthday gift. we just had the best time, and it really reminded me...as if I need it...but really reminded me how lucky I am to have such wonderful friends. Rob definitely plays for keeps, and who at this point, I really couldn't do without.
Week eight...off to Vancouver!!!
So, firstly, the flight was awesome. Cathay Pacific Airways was a dream! Cheap, comfy, awesome. I kind of dreaded a huge and long flight, but I must say, it was pretty awesome as far as flights go! I arrived, and who welcomed me other than my treasured friend Anna, who I haven't seen in 2 years, wearing her T-shirt that Sandra and I had made for her birthday. Back in March, Sandra and I took a trip to the Walmart portrait studio, dressed up full out in 80's get up, to get our photos taken in an authentic nostalgic fashion for our girl Anna's birthday gift. That was probably one of the funnest experiences I have ever had. It was a total trip to see her wearing it! I wish Sandra could have been there for that moment! Following our long excited greeting, we traveled home, of course accompanied by a to-go container of gin and juice. Its just how we roll. hehehe. We stayed up drinking and chatting till about 4 am, (7am new york time) and Anna had to work at 8am. It didn't go smoothly. I woke up and booked some practice space while she was at work, and in the evening, we took on Vancouver. Now, when any combination of Anna, Sandra and I get together, its going to be loud, and potentially abnoxious. The citizens of Vancouver were half and half on our side. We made some awesome friends, and I may have loudly expressed my distaste in those who didn't appreciate our zest. Regardless of whose feelings were temporarily trampled, be it ours or theirs, we had an excellent time, tearing it up, as per guaranteed. I miss Anna so much. Again, reminder of the awesomeness that is my friends!
Anna left for a climbing trip in California on Tuesday, which was the day of my audition as well as the first day of the Rising Tide: Canadians in Tap conference. I missed her for the rest of my trip, but I was completely fulfilled with what I experienced!
Okay, so firstly, the audition went well. It was awesome to dance in the same room with the people who I had conversed with all day, and friends who I haven't seen in a while! We all had a lot of fun in the audition. Right now, there is some controversy amongst the tap community regarding Vanoc hiring an Australian production company vs a Canadian production company, but I don't really want to get into it in my blog. I may speak about it as it develops in a future entry, but for the purposes of this being the internet and that everything I write is publicly accessible, I don't want to tarnish an opportunity that I would be so grateful to be potentially presented with. Myself, as well as the Canadian tap community, have an extremely positive outlook on the whole situation, as well as lot of respect for those who may present us with the opportunity to dance on the world stage. If anything, to land this job would be amazing if just to be in touch and work with my peers who I met at this conference and move forward with what we are determined to do as professional tap dancers in Canada!
The conference was awesome. It was a pretty incredible experience to be in a room with about 40 other people who shared the same passion and love for an art form which so often gets ignored. In speaking about some issues, I actually surprised myself in that I didn't think I would get so passionate to a point of shaking when I was just involved in discussion. I bring that to my work, but didn't think that would pour out of me at discussion level. This passion we have, its a peculiar and powerful thing. I feel pretty lucky that its rooted so strongly within me. Now to get further on connecting all of that through the emotional level of my dancing...
Anyways, I had debated the choice of taking the trek to Vancouver in the middle of my time in New York...am I ever glad I went. It was the best and smartest thing I could have done for myself. I got completely connected with the people that are also determined to make things happen in Canada. I have never felt such a strong sense of community. I can't imagine not being a part of that. The people I met, who I have been deeply inspired by, will change my life.
I got to connect with my friend Dayna Szyndrowski who was in the fringe show with me in Edmonton 2006. When we did the show, we definitely connected, but since working together we have become very close. Long distance we have maintained a pretty awesome friendship and support for each other over the past three years. This girl is sooooo talented. I have the utmost respect for her, and wish we could be in the same city to actually build on the ideas we share. I truly cherish our hangs! Fingers crossed for the olympics gig....
I also got to reconnect with one my treasured teachers from Edmonton and her daughter who I used to dance with, Gail Ledger and Kelly Cameron. Kelly's married now...feels weird to call her by her new name! Dayna also danced with Gail, but we never really knew each other as kids. Funny how life goes. haa. It was awesome to see them and catch up. We all went for dinner the night I flew back to New York. It was just a really great experience to be able to sit with 3 people who I have had such rich experiences with and look forward to whats next for all of us! Awesome.
Another highlight was meeting Tasha Lawson. This woman moved me to the verge of tears. We got along right off the bat within the conference, but I saw her perform and it changed me. She is currently working on her own vocabulary of body percussion. Surprise surprise, I was inspired. She has created an entire tap vocabulary where she places the sounds on her body instead of using her feet for manipulations. Its kind of weird to describe, and completely different than Max's work, but just like how I feel about Max, everyone needs to see this!!!! She recreated in her new language the famous Atkins/Coles soft shoe "Taking a Chance on Love." It blew my mind!!! To even grasp the capacity of creativity required to execute this completely blew my mind. I'm so glad we're friends now. =)
It was also really wonderful to hang with EVERY CANADIAN that attended Heather's intensive. Amanda Buckingham is an excellent dancer from Vancouver who worked non stop all week! She drove everyone around, danced all day, and pretty much worked till she dropped, all the while carrying herself with grace and an incredible air of positivity. What a great soul. We have become really close in the short time we've known each other and I am looking forward to where that will carry us in the future. She is attending the Music Theatre program at Capilano University right now. I'm about 5 years ahead of her, and man we have some serious parallels. Again, I feel pretty lucky to have come across such excellent people.
It was also pretty special for me to hang with my good friend Travis Knights in Vancouver, amongst these quality people. Every time we hang, or dance, or I see him dance, I am so filled with happiness and inspiration. Truly. He has just got something so special about him, and its really infectious. I can't wait to get back home and dance with him. We have got a lot of work to do!! =)
All in all, the people that I met, the people I reconnected with, have all contributed to the strength and determination I have for making what we do actually happen, successfully in Canada. What a positive, incredible, inspiring experience.
At the end of all of it, I got to have a short visit with my excellent friend Kendyl! We used to work together at Volo in Toronto. She now lives in Montreal going to Concordia University, but is from Van and happened to be there for a few weeks in perfect time to see me! Excellent little finale to my trip! Any time spent with her is a dream.
So, now, back in New York for my final month, slowly polishing off the cheesecake my roommate Jessica so generously gave me for my birthday! The approach...stop eating cheesecake, and take full advantage to everything I can that is uniquely accessible in New York. I need to schedule my time, and budget wisely!!! I'll keep you posted on how that all works out...
till next week....
at xo
Monday, August 24, 2009
Week six
So, week six...I can't believe it, I've been here for six whole weeks, and I have six more to go. Here's the halfway mark. How do I feel??...like I'm on a rollercoaster ALL the time.
On monday and tuesday I got to work privately with Max. I had one private session with him last year, so we reviewed that material and following that we got into some heavy work. Well, for me, anyways! The more I work with Max the more of a musician I become and really feel. His work is incredibly articulate, his rhythms are complex, and the counter parting going on between your hands and feet is hard! Its so hard!! But so good. I love having a huge challenge that I can keep working on. The thing with Max's work is that I might not be able to do it right away, but I understand it, so the work that he is giving me doesn't seem like a daunting impossible feat. I know if I keep practicing, I'll get it. And that sense of accomplishment is pretty incredible. He's also such a wonderful, kind, genuine person who I really want to hang with. haa. He's just like no one else. He is such a nice guy who is so ridiculously talented and really wants to share his work. The cd that he just recorded with his company should be available in the fall. The world needs to hear what he is up to!!!! If you are not familiar with Max's work, look him up. Youtube him, check out his website, or myspace will have some clips of the company.
Rumba Tap Website
Rumba tap myspace
On thursday and friday I went up to Brenda Bufalino's house in New Paltz and had an intensive two day mentorship. That...was unbelievable. New Paltz is an hour and a half north of NYC in the mountains. Her family has a stretch of land up there where she raised her kids, and now they have gone on to build homes for themselves. Brenda's ex-husband lives on the land as well, and Brenda herself with the help of her son is builidng a new space in a Barn. There are two floors, she built her tap studio first, she will build in an apartment for herself, and there will be three other creative spaces for her son, her daughter-in law, and a pottery studio for all of them all to share. How cool. Its pretty nice so far! I'm so bummed I forgot to take pictures! Sorry guys!
So, the experience.... I got there, we had some bruschetta, drank tea and chatted for a little while, then we got right into it. We would work for about two hours, and then she would leave me to practice while she went downstairs to make a pot. Occasionally I got yelled at between floors, but I was pretty level headed when it came to my solitude whilst practicing. heh. When she decided I needed a break, she came up with two beers, looked at me and said..."you drink beer right?" I thought, you gotta be kidding...this is hilarious. Brenda Bufalino is telling me to stop, take a break, and have a beer, in the middle of the afternoon. My kind of teacher, I'd say! And so would all of you who know my appreciation for alcoholic beverages...hee. Anyways, that's how the day would go. Work together for a while, practice until my feet turned to jello, eat and/or drink, then go again. It was INTENSE! She broke me down, pulled me a part, disected all of my inconsistencies. It was simultaneously awesome and dreadful. It is really hard when you get to a certain point in your dancing when you expect to be able to rely on your technique and musicality, but when both of those things...that make you a tap dancer, that define your voice...are being torn up all over the place, you begin to feel really vulnerable, and need to take ten steps backwards in order to understand where you need to go to get to the next level. So, those two days with Brenda will have an enormus impact on the entire future of my dancing...on the rest of my life. I am so ready for it, and am so excited to practice all of the gold that she gave me, but I can't say that I'm going to enjoy every step of the way to get to where I intend to be... but in time, that is what will seperate my artistry from being okay to extrordinary.
In addition to the work, hanging out with this legendary personality for two days was another incredible experience on its own. Brenda invited her friend Jay Clayton and her student Alexis over for dinner on the second night. Jay is apparantly one of the two divas of avant garde jazz. The night before I listened to a recording of a trio with Jay singing, Brenda dancing, and someone on piano who's name I forget. (whoops!) It was super cool. It was great to hang with them, and gain even more perspective from another generation of female artists. Listening to everything Brenda had to say about everything, really...was crazy cool. I learned some of her thoughts/opinions about a lot of people, past and present, how she feels about tap today, her own trials and tribulations throughout the years, family stuff, everything!! She got to know me pretty well too. We totally bonded! hehe. When I left, she reminded me that I am her student now for the rest of my life, and she's gonna wanna know what's going on with me. Amazing.
It's weird, half way through I feel like I could go home now. I have a huge new repetoire to practice, pull from, be inspired by...everything. I mean, I would stay here forever if it was easy, but I feel kinda full right now, and really miss my FREE practice space...and my friends. This week, I have decided to cut down on classes a bit and get into the studio and practice as much as possible. My main focus is to work privately, so I really feel I need to build on everything daily so that when I gain more time one on one, I can reach more growth rather than scramble to remember or complie everything once I am gone. I will still go to the classes I love, but I won't be too hard on myself if I miss every now and then, due to lots of practice time.
Speaking of classes I love, Lisa LaTouche was teaching again last week. I really truly love her dancing, how she teaches a class, and her choreography. Tonight I got to finally take Michelle Dorrance's class, taught by her and not a sub! Its sooooo good. She's got such a fun, wack personality, and her class is always technically challenging. She is always musically interesting, but I am glad that I am always technically pushed in her class. She's playing bass in a band tomorrow night that I'm gonna check out. That should be fun. These two ladies are also such genuine, awesome human beings who I just want to be around, learn from, and wish them good vibes in the tap universe.
I went to another Mets game last week. This time Dave couldn't go, so he offered me tickets and I went with my roommate Jessica. We had a wicked time. I ate a lot of stadium food! Who can help it that every time we wanted anything, the pretzel guy, the cotton candy dude, the beer man would be right there? You can't fight fate. haa. We were planning on going for greek food after, because the Mets play in Queens, and Queens has the best food, but of course, we were way too full.
Next week is going to be a little bit different than my regular scheduled programing. I am going to Vancouver! I was invited to audition for the 2010 Olympic Opening Ceremonies. There is also a tap conference followed by the Van tap festival. I also have some great friends to visit, so I thought it was entirely worth it to take the trip. I will visit with my excellent friend Anna for the first few days, then I will do my audition, and stay for the conference. I'm not staying for the festival, because I want to get back to New York! As soon as I booked my flight the other day, I got super excited! I'm really looking forward to hanging with all of the tap dancers in the Canadian scene. It should be a great time.
Also, upon my weekend phone calls to friends and my parents, I was talking to Rob about all of this, and due to this whole Vancouver thing, he needed to spill a surprise that he was planning for me. So.......on friday, Rob will be here for my birthday!!!!! He was planning on a phone call/surprise live appearnce, but he told me last night so that we could make some solid plans. How amazing is that???? Things just keep getting better! What an incredible birthday present! And really, its just what I need... a little piece of home. I am so excited to have him here, even though its only a day and a half. It kindof works out perfectly actually, he needs to catch the bus at 7pm which is when I will have to head out to the airport. yaaaay.
So that was my week. Until next week...shortly before or shortly after, depending on when I have time around Rob's visit and Vancouver...
=)
at xo
On monday and tuesday I got to work privately with Max. I had one private session with him last year, so we reviewed that material and following that we got into some heavy work. Well, for me, anyways! The more I work with Max the more of a musician I become and really feel. His work is incredibly articulate, his rhythms are complex, and the counter parting going on between your hands and feet is hard! Its so hard!! But so good. I love having a huge challenge that I can keep working on. The thing with Max's work is that I might not be able to do it right away, but I understand it, so the work that he is giving me doesn't seem like a daunting impossible feat. I know if I keep practicing, I'll get it. And that sense of accomplishment is pretty incredible. He's also such a wonderful, kind, genuine person who I really want to hang with. haa. He's just like no one else. He is such a nice guy who is so ridiculously talented and really wants to share his work. The cd that he just recorded with his company should be available in the fall. The world needs to hear what he is up to!!!! If you are not familiar with Max's work, look him up. Youtube him, check out his website, or myspace will have some clips of the company.
Rumba Tap Website
Rumba tap myspace
On thursday and friday I went up to Brenda Bufalino's house in New Paltz and had an intensive two day mentorship. That...was unbelievable. New Paltz is an hour and a half north of NYC in the mountains. Her family has a stretch of land up there where she raised her kids, and now they have gone on to build homes for themselves. Brenda's ex-husband lives on the land as well, and Brenda herself with the help of her son is builidng a new space in a Barn. There are two floors, she built her tap studio first, she will build in an apartment for herself, and there will be three other creative spaces for her son, her daughter-in law, and a pottery studio for all of them all to share. How cool. Its pretty nice so far! I'm so bummed I forgot to take pictures! Sorry guys!
So, the experience.... I got there, we had some bruschetta, drank tea and chatted for a little while, then we got right into it. We would work for about two hours, and then she would leave me to practice while she went downstairs to make a pot. Occasionally I got yelled at between floors, but I was pretty level headed when it came to my solitude whilst practicing. heh. When she decided I needed a break, she came up with two beers, looked at me and said..."you drink beer right?" I thought, you gotta be kidding...this is hilarious. Brenda Bufalino is telling me to stop, take a break, and have a beer, in the middle of the afternoon. My kind of teacher, I'd say! And so would all of you who know my appreciation for alcoholic beverages...hee. Anyways, that's how the day would go. Work together for a while, practice until my feet turned to jello, eat and/or drink, then go again. It was INTENSE! She broke me down, pulled me a part, disected all of my inconsistencies. It was simultaneously awesome and dreadful. It is really hard when you get to a certain point in your dancing when you expect to be able to rely on your technique and musicality, but when both of those things...that make you a tap dancer, that define your voice...are being torn up all over the place, you begin to feel really vulnerable, and need to take ten steps backwards in order to understand where you need to go to get to the next level. So, those two days with Brenda will have an enormus impact on the entire future of my dancing...on the rest of my life. I am so ready for it, and am so excited to practice all of the gold that she gave me, but I can't say that I'm going to enjoy every step of the way to get to where I intend to be... but in time, that is what will seperate my artistry from being okay to extrordinary.
In addition to the work, hanging out with this legendary personality for two days was another incredible experience on its own. Brenda invited her friend Jay Clayton and her student Alexis over for dinner on the second night. Jay is apparantly one of the two divas of avant garde jazz. The night before I listened to a recording of a trio with Jay singing, Brenda dancing, and someone on piano who's name I forget. (whoops!) It was super cool. It was great to hang with them, and gain even more perspective from another generation of female artists. Listening to everything Brenda had to say about everything, really...was crazy cool. I learned some of her thoughts/opinions about a lot of people, past and present, how she feels about tap today, her own trials and tribulations throughout the years, family stuff, everything!! She got to know me pretty well too. We totally bonded! hehe. When I left, she reminded me that I am her student now for the rest of my life, and she's gonna wanna know what's going on with me. Amazing.
It's weird, half way through I feel like I could go home now. I have a huge new repetoire to practice, pull from, be inspired by...everything. I mean, I would stay here forever if it was easy, but I feel kinda full right now, and really miss my FREE practice space...and my friends. This week, I have decided to cut down on classes a bit and get into the studio and practice as much as possible. My main focus is to work privately, so I really feel I need to build on everything daily so that when I gain more time one on one, I can reach more growth rather than scramble to remember or complie everything once I am gone. I will still go to the classes I love, but I won't be too hard on myself if I miss every now and then, due to lots of practice time.
Speaking of classes I love, Lisa LaTouche was teaching again last week. I really truly love her dancing, how she teaches a class, and her choreography. Tonight I got to finally take Michelle Dorrance's class, taught by her and not a sub! Its sooooo good. She's got such a fun, wack personality, and her class is always technically challenging. She is always musically interesting, but I am glad that I am always technically pushed in her class. She's playing bass in a band tomorrow night that I'm gonna check out. That should be fun. These two ladies are also such genuine, awesome human beings who I just want to be around, learn from, and wish them good vibes in the tap universe.
I went to another Mets game last week. This time Dave couldn't go, so he offered me tickets and I went with my roommate Jessica. We had a wicked time. I ate a lot of stadium food! Who can help it that every time we wanted anything, the pretzel guy, the cotton candy dude, the beer man would be right there? You can't fight fate. haa. We were planning on going for greek food after, because the Mets play in Queens, and Queens has the best food, but of course, we were way too full.
Next week is going to be a little bit different than my regular scheduled programing. I am going to Vancouver! I was invited to audition for the 2010 Olympic Opening Ceremonies. There is also a tap conference followed by the Van tap festival. I also have some great friends to visit, so I thought it was entirely worth it to take the trip. I will visit with my excellent friend Anna for the first few days, then I will do my audition, and stay for the conference. I'm not staying for the festival, because I want to get back to New York! As soon as I booked my flight the other day, I got super excited! I'm really looking forward to hanging with all of the tap dancers in the Canadian scene. It should be a great time.
Also, upon my weekend phone calls to friends and my parents, I was talking to Rob about all of this, and due to this whole Vancouver thing, he needed to spill a surprise that he was planning for me. So.......on friday, Rob will be here for my birthday!!!!! He was planning on a phone call/surprise live appearnce, but he told me last night so that we could make some solid plans. How amazing is that???? Things just keep getting better! What an incredible birthday present! And really, its just what I need... a little piece of home. I am so excited to have him here, even though its only a day and a half. It kindof works out perfectly actually, he needs to catch the bus at 7pm which is when I will have to head out to the airport. yaaaay.
So that was my week. Until next week...shortly before or shortly after, depending on when I have time around Rob's visit and Vancouver...
=)
at xo
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Week four & five
Firstly, sorry I didn't write last week...I promise I didn't miss a thing!
So, I last wrote about my anticipation to see Max's show...ya, AMAZING. He was a part of this project called Life After Dark which was put together by Dana Leong, a multi-instrumentalist who wanted to put together all of his favourite artists from all different ethnic and cultural backgrounds and take a look into their creative processes. So he interviewed each artist, got them to explain three words that capture their approach, and from all of those interviews came the collaboration with everyone in the collective. There was a drummer, keyboardist, spoken work/MC artist, turntablist, tap/body percussion (Max) a Japanese Koto player, and Dana plays trombone and cello. There was a screen above the stage that you watched these interviews on, and then while the music was happening there were stills, and live feed of what was happening on stage, and other projections. At some parts you could watch Max's feet on the screen while it was all going down. The only dissapointing part was that you couldn't hear him very well. You would think, in a very nice professional venue in New York, they would figure out how to properly mic a tap dancer...nope. Regardless of the setback, the show was incredible! I met up with my friend Jen who I met in Heather's intensive, which was a great surprise! After the show we went for a drink, and then...pancakes. Yep...awesome. Pancakes at midnight...perfect.
A few days later I met up with Shauna Hoskin, who I grew up dancing with in Edmonton. We found each other on facebook, which was awesome because I didn't know she was here! Last we were in touch she was doing a show in France. So, we went for lunch and got totally caught up. She will be going on a national tour with Young Frankenstein in the fall. She is so talented, and such a wonderful person. Its so awesome to meet up with friends from home and see them fourish in their success. So far in New York I have been able to hang with 4 friends all from Edmonton, pretty cool I think.
I hung out with Tom Delbello again before he headed to Toronto to perform in The Boys in the Photograph. (the new Andrew Lloyd Webber musical) We went to see Julie & Julia...see this movie people! Its amazing!!! Then we went for some wine and nachos, but we didn't even come close to the shennanigans we pulled a year ago. Last year, we tore it up. Pretty much my only night of extreme debauchery last July was with Tom. I don't know if any of you recall the pictures of me kissing the shirtless bartender in exchange for our drinks...haha. (Sorry mom, sorry auntie...) This time, we were too tired, and too chatty...less drinky! Anyways, I will miss having Tom here, but I will get to see him in his show when I get home in the fall.
I haven't yet had the chance to have a private session with Max, but he was recording an album all last week, so he invited me to a rehearsal last sunday. First of all, the people in his company are such wonderful people, everyone is obviously very talented, but aside from that, they are just lovely, kind people who I was very happy to be around. It was a pretty amazing feeling to be able to listen to the complexities of Max's work, but it also really hit home how much I want to work with him. If the opportunity should ever arise, I would LOVE/die to dance in his company. Even just the fact that I get to spend lots of time learning from him, reminds me of how fortunate I feel to be here experiencing all of this. I get to work with him tomorrow and tuesday....so excited!!
I had two private sessions with Heather Cornell last week. First session we basically worked on phrasing, and had very detailed discussions about approach. It was totally awesome, and arose some interesting discoveries about myself. She outlined some challenges in a completely different elemental way than I have ever approached my dancing before. We threw technique out of the door and delved into intention and emotion. Weirdly, I never really made the connection to express myself tap dancing in the ways that are required to approach a song, or a scene, or even a different dance genre. In choreography that has been given to me, sure, but as an improviser, or setting choreography for myself, not really. I guess I just always trusted my passion. I faced a new challenge, and I will be continuing to figure it out forever, really. Tough, but cool. The second session she gave me a new Buster Brown piece... I learned Fascinating Rhythm/Just You Just Me. Its awesome. I love working privately. You get worlds more than class. Class is great for the purposes of class, but to really get into it, and really treasure an experience, there's no comparrison.
I checked out more awesome music! I actually ran into Brandi Disterheft on the street, when I was fully planning on just surprsing her at her gig the next day. Brandi is a Juno award winning bass player from Toronto, who I got to know while working at The Rex. She just finished a Canadian tour of her new album, and is back and forth between New York and Toronto. So, it was hilarious to run into her, and amazing to hear her play the next night. She was playing at 55 bar, and then I stayed for the next show to hear Dave Binney again. My friend Jen came along too, and after the gig... yes....we went for pancakes! Well, this time I actually had 2 eggs and cornbeef hash with a side of hollandaise...but had full intention of pancakes...yep...what health at 2am. Then, we went to this bar called Fat Cat and checked out a jam...til 4am. This bar was so weird but totally cool. There was a full on jazz jam going on, and there was couches to hang, but also pool tables, foozeball, ping pong, chess, and what looked like airhockey or curling on these long tables with sand. Kindof felt like an afterhours club house. Jen and I are gonna go back with our shoes and jam! The next day I saw Rudder, a wicked band from here that I also knew because of The Rex. Henry my sailing friend plays in Rudder. I have to say, that is my absolute favourite band to see live, so far anyway. Their music never ceases to give me crazy goosebumps...everytime. So good. After that show I went to go see my roommate's band, the MK Groove Orchestra. Awesome too. It was great to see my roommate on stage, and hear his work after listening to him practice all the time! hehe. Very cool band, totally glad I checked it out.
A few days ago I hung out with Allison Plamondon again. I wrote about her in my first entry, and it is now gone....boo! Anyways, its always great to hang with her. She is such a huge inspiration to me. She's also from Edmonton. How funny really...both named Allison, both tap dancers/actor/singers, both grew up in Edmonton, lived in Toronto, and now New York. (eventhough I am temporary, one day indefinite!) After we had coffee she was off to meet up with a mentor of hers, Sarah Jane Burton, who I had a movement class with in my first year at Sheridan. So, I came along to say hi, not sure if she'd remember me, but she did, and she was as lovely as ever. What a nice, down to earth lady. So nice to see her and catch up a little bit!
Yesterday I went to Jen's place in Jersey City for a party. She studies Capoeira, which is an afro-brazilian art form that combines martial arts, music, dance, and play. She just received her first belt, so she was having a party after the ceremony with her crew and she invited me along. They played in the backyard for a while so I got a first hand look at what this was all about. So cool...I was just watching trying to figure it all out, but that's impossible on first exposure! I am intrigued though. And really nice people, aside from one particularly ignorant dude who tried to talk to me about tap. Other than that little hiccup, I had a really excellent time! Jersey City is beautiful. Its not far from New York at all, about the same distance to midtown as some areas in Brooklyn or Queens. I'd totally consider living there, so much character!!
That was pretty much my last two weeks! Other than that, the other day I received an email inviting me to an audition for the 2010 Olympic opening ceremonies. The auditon is on September 1st in Vancouver which is also the same time that a Canadian tap conference is happening. I have been in touch with the creative director, but will receive all details in the next few days, so I will keep you all posted what that is all about. Cool though. I feel pretty great and fortunate that I was invited to be considered for that. So, we'll see!
This next week is going to be crazy! Tomorrow and tuesday I work with Max, and on thursday I go up to Brenda Bufalino's house for 2 days...I can't wait. Its gonna be nuts! Till the next entry...
at xo
So, I last wrote about my anticipation to see Max's show...ya, AMAZING. He was a part of this project called Life After Dark which was put together by Dana Leong, a multi-instrumentalist who wanted to put together all of his favourite artists from all different ethnic and cultural backgrounds and take a look into their creative processes. So he interviewed each artist, got them to explain three words that capture their approach, and from all of those interviews came the collaboration with everyone in the collective. There was a drummer, keyboardist, spoken work/MC artist, turntablist, tap/body percussion (Max) a Japanese Koto player, and Dana plays trombone and cello. There was a screen above the stage that you watched these interviews on, and then while the music was happening there were stills, and live feed of what was happening on stage, and other projections. At some parts you could watch Max's feet on the screen while it was all going down. The only dissapointing part was that you couldn't hear him very well. You would think, in a very nice professional venue in New York, they would figure out how to properly mic a tap dancer...nope. Regardless of the setback, the show was incredible! I met up with my friend Jen who I met in Heather's intensive, which was a great surprise! After the show we went for a drink, and then...pancakes. Yep...awesome. Pancakes at midnight...perfect.
A few days later I met up with Shauna Hoskin, who I grew up dancing with in Edmonton. We found each other on facebook, which was awesome because I didn't know she was here! Last we were in touch she was doing a show in France. So, we went for lunch and got totally caught up. She will be going on a national tour with Young Frankenstein in the fall. She is so talented, and such a wonderful person. Its so awesome to meet up with friends from home and see them fourish in their success. So far in New York I have been able to hang with 4 friends all from Edmonton, pretty cool I think.
I hung out with Tom Delbello again before he headed to Toronto to perform in The Boys in the Photograph. (the new Andrew Lloyd Webber musical) We went to see Julie & Julia...see this movie people! Its amazing!!! Then we went for some wine and nachos, but we didn't even come close to the shennanigans we pulled a year ago. Last year, we tore it up. Pretty much my only night of extreme debauchery last July was with Tom. I don't know if any of you recall the pictures of me kissing the shirtless bartender in exchange for our drinks...haha. (Sorry mom, sorry auntie...) This time, we were too tired, and too chatty...less drinky! Anyways, I will miss having Tom here, but I will get to see him in his show when I get home in the fall.
I haven't yet had the chance to have a private session with Max, but he was recording an album all last week, so he invited me to a rehearsal last sunday. First of all, the people in his company are such wonderful people, everyone is obviously very talented, but aside from that, they are just lovely, kind people who I was very happy to be around. It was a pretty amazing feeling to be able to listen to the complexities of Max's work, but it also really hit home how much I want to work with him. If the opportunity should ever arise, I would LOVE/die to dance in his company. Even just the fact that I get to spend lots of time learning from him, reminds me of how fortunate I feel to be here experiencing all of this. I get to work with him tomorrow and tuesday....so excited!!
I had two private sessions with Heather Cornell last week. First session we basically worked on phrasing, and had very detailed discussions about approach. It was totally awesome, and arose some interesting discoveries about myself. She outlined some challenges in a completely different elemental way than I have ever approached my dancing before. We threw technique out of the door and delved into intention and emotion. Weirdly, I never really made the connection to express myself tap dancing in the ways that are required to approach a song, or a scene, or even a different dance genre. In choreography that has been given to me, sure, but as an improviser, or setting choreography for myself, not really. I guess I just always trusted my passion. I faced a new challenge, and I will be continuing to figure it out forever, really. Tough, but cool. The second session she gave me a new Buster Brown piece... I learned Fascinating Rhythm/Just You Just Me. Its awesome. I love working privately. You get worlds more than class. Class is great for the purposes of class, but to really get into it, and really treasure an experience, there's no comparrison.
I checked out more awesome music! I actually ran into Brandi Disterheft on the street, when I was fully planning on just surprsing her at her gig the next day. Brandi is a Juno award winning bass player from Toronto, who I got to know while working at The Rex. She just finished a Canadian tour of her new album, and is back and forth between New York and Toronto. So, it was hilarious to run into her, and amazing to hear her play the next night. She was playing at 55 bar, and then I stayed for the next show to hear Dave Binney again. My friend Jen came along too, and after the gig... yes....we went for pancakes! Well, this time I actually had 2 eggs and cornbeef hash with a side of hollandaise...but had full intention of pancakes...yep...what health at 2am. Then, we went to this bar called Fat Cat and checked out a jam...til 4am. This bar was so weird but totally cool. There was a full on jazz jam going on, and there was couches to hang, but also pool tables, foozeball, ping pong, chess, and what looked like airhockey or curling on these long tables with sand. Kindof felt like an afterhours club house. Jen and I are gonna go back with our shoes and jam! The next day I saw Rudder, a wicked band from here that I also knew because of The Rex. Henry my sailing friend plays in Rudder. I have to say, that is my absolute favourite band to see live, so far anyway. Their music never ceases to give me crazy goosebumps...everytime. So good. After that show I went to go see my roommate's band, the MK Groove Orchestra. Awesome too. It was great to see my roommate on stage, and hear his work after listening to him practice all the time! hehe. Very cool band, totally glad I checked it out.
A few days ago I hung out with Allison Plamondon again. I wrote about her in my first entry, and it is now gone....boo! Anyways, its always great to hang with her. She is such a huge inspiration to me. She's also from Edmonton. How funny really...both named Allison, both tap dancers/actor/singers, both grew up in Edmonton, lived in Toronto, and now New York. (eventhough I am temporary, one day indefinite!) After we had coffee she was off to meet up with a mentor of hers, Sarah Jane Burton, who I had a movement class with in my first year at Sheridan. So, I came along to say hi, not sure if she'd remember me, but she did, and she was as lovely as ever. What a nice, down to earth lady. So nice to see her and catch up a little bit!
Yesterday I went to Jen's place in Jersey City for a party. She studies Capoeira, which is an afro-brazilian art form that combines martial arts, music, dance, and play. She just received her first belt, so she was having a party after the ceremony with her crew and she invited me along. They played in the backyard for a while so I got a first hand look at what this was all about. So cool...I was just watching trying to figure it all out, but that's impossible on first exposure! I am intrigued though. And really nice people, aside from one particularly ignorant dude who tried to talk to me about tap. Other than that little hiccup, I had a really excellent time! Jersey City is beautiful. Its not far from New York at all, about the same distance to midtown as some areas in Brooklyn or Queens. I'd totally consider living there, so much character!!
That was pretty much my last two weeks! Other than that, the other day I received an email inviting me to an audition for the 2010 Olympic opening ceremonies. The auditon is on September 1st in Vancouver which is also the same time that a Canadian tap conference is happening. I have been in touch with the creative director, but will receive all details in the next few days, so I will keep you all posted what that is all about. Cool though. I feel pretty great and fortunate that I was invited to be considered for that. So, we'll see!
This next week is going to be crazy! Tomorrow and tuesday I work with Max, and on thursday I go up to Brenda Bufalino's house for 2 days...I can't wait. Its gonna be nuts! Till the next entry...
at xo
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Week three
week three was a way different feel compared to the first two weeks. Last week's entry was actually week two and a half... The highlight of week three would be my private session with Brenda, but I already wrote about that! Mostly last week I just took class all around town. I had another disappointing sub a few days ago, but I must say on Monday, this guy Nicholas Young subbed for Michelle Dorrance, and his class was amazing. I have yet to catch Michelle this trip, which is a drag because her class is one of my favourites. Michelle and Nicholas perform together in Stomp. I haven't ever seen Stomp, I now think its about time I check it out! All in all, I was pretty happy to have an extremely fulfilling class!! Other classes I really enjoyed last week were Claudia Rahardjanato, and Chikako Iwahori. Chikako was one of the musicians playing for Heather's intensive, so it was cool to be in her class and see how she carries over her musicianship to her choreography as well as teaching style. Both of these ladies work with Barbara Duffy and Max Pollak on the regular...two very different styles, but both I totally love...probably why I enjoyed their classes so much too. I took Barbara's class today, and get to see Max perform tonight! I will probably start working privately with him next week. I will be writing about that in my next entry!
So, other than dancing last week I had some fun social events. I went to the Mets game with Dave Binney. I went to see him play last Tuesday at 55 Bar, and on Thursday we went to the game, drank a lot of beer, ate hot dogs, pretzels, and cracker jacks, and I got sunburned. After we went for more beer, then Indian food, baskin robbins, then more beer. It was a long day. I was well behaved at the game, no heckling from me this time! When we reached the gates, I had my beautiful water bottle that Rob gave me for Christmas confiscated! I guess since 9-11, security measures are pretty drastic. You can't take metal/plastic containers or liquids into a ballpark...I wasn't aware that the same security protocol is applied for ballparks as airports...now I know. I did however get it back!! The nice people at the gate put it away for me, so it was luckily returned! I mean, who would steal somebody else's water bottle, but hey, mine's a really nice one, and it was a really nice gift! We went for awesome Indian food in Queens. I'm told Queens has the best food in New York. And this was pretty amazing food. One tip though, don't ever order beef at an Indian restaurant, its not their specialty. I ordered beef because I was sick of chicken, and the server said the beef was fresher than the lamb, but it wasn't nearly as good as the chicken Dave ordered. It was a bit spicy, but crusted in mint, so the flavour cooled itself out. It was awesome, and because of the mint it was green...we ate green chicken. I posted some pics... I couldn't resist. Then Dave wanted ice cream...I have no idea how he had room for it. At baskin robbins I called Sandra, because it was her birthday! When I got a hold of her she was on her way to dinner after 4 hours at the spa...not a bad birthday!! After ice cream, which somehow I helped finish, we went back to Manhattan for a few more drinks in Dave's neighbourhood. He lives in Irving Berlin's house...how cool is that?? Long day...but good day. =)
The next day I went back to Queens to hang out with Tom Delbello, my friend from Sheridan. After graduating he worked on Disney Cruise lines, and lived in Toronto for a very short time, but has been living and working out of New York ever since. I saw him for a night of debauchery last visit, and was very excited to meet up with him again! We went to the Studio Square Beer Gardens. It was really fun! It was awesome to hang out and meet his friends here. He is going back to Toronto mid August to perform in Boys in the Photograph until November. I'm sure we will have a few more hangs before he takes off.
On Saturday I went to class in the morning, then met up with Henry Hey to go sailing. Henry and Dave both come into Toronto to play at The Rex, where I worked for three years. So, a month ago, when Henry was in Toronto playing with The Chris Tarry Group and heard that I was moving to New York, right away he asked if I wanted to go sailing. It didn't take long for that to actually happen! It was so fun, and beautiful, and peaceful. We borrowed Chris' car and drove north of the Bronx to City Island and sailed along the Long Island Sound. You could see Queens, and in the distance past the bridges through the smog you can see Manhattan. It was a great escape from the city. I got home so relaxed after that. An amazing afternoon. Hopefully there will be more adventures on the boat.
On sunday I went to class, and was fully planning on checking out some music in the evening, but I wasn't really feeling well. It was a gross rainy day anyways. I ended up renting a few movies and hanging out at home. I really needed the down time. I was missing the brain release of watching TV, so a few movies in the evening really helped me chill.
Pretty good week three I think! Excited to see Max tonight, also excited to meet up with Shauna Hoskin, who I danced with in Edmonton as a kid, just like Pam and Jess Pecush who I met up with last week. Shauna has been based out of New York around the same time I moved to Toronto. We haven't been in touch for a while, so I am really looking forward to catching up.
till next week...
at xo
So, other than dancing last week I had some fun social events. I went to the Mets game with Dave Binney. I went to see him play last Tuesday at 55 Bar, and on Thursday we went to the game, drank a lot of beer, ate hot dogs, pretzels, and cracker jacks, and I got sunburned. After we went for more beer, then Indian food, baskin robbins, then more beer. It was a long day. I was well behaved at the game, no heckling from me this time! When we reached the gates, I had my beautiful water bottle that Rob gave me for Christmas confiscated! I guess since 9-11, security measures are pretty drastic. You can't take metal/plastic containers or liquids into a ballpark...I wasn't aware that the same security protocol is applied for ballparks as airports...now I know. I did however get it back!! The nice people at the gate put it away for me, so it was luckily returned! I mean, who would steal somebody else's water bottle, but hey, mine's a really nice one, and it was a really nice gift! We went for awesome Indian food in Queens. I'm told Queens has the best food in New York. And this was pretty amazing food. One tip though, don't ever order beef at an Indian restaurant, its not their specialty. I ordered beef because I was sick of chicken, and the server said the beef was fresher than the lamb, but it wasn't nearly as good as the chicken Dave ordered. It was a bit spicy, but crusted in mint, so the flavour cooled itself out. It was awesome, and because of the mint it was green...we ate green chicken. I posted some pics... I couldn't resist. Then Dave wanted ice cream...I have no idea how he had room for it. At baskin robbins I called Sandra, because it was her birthday! When I got a hold of her she was on her way to dinner after 4 hours at the spa...not a bad birthday!! After ice cream, which somehow I helped finish, we went back to Manhattan for a few more drinks in Dave's neighbourhood. He lives in Irving Berlin's house...how cool is that?? Long day...but good day. =)
The next day I went back to Queens to hang out with Tom Delbello, my friend from Sheridan. After graduating he worked on Disney Cruise lines, and lived in Toronto for a very short time, but has been living and working out of New York ever since. I saw him for a night of debauchery last visit, and was very excited to meet up with him again! We went to the Studio Square Beer Gardens. It was really fun! It was awesome to hang out and meet his friends here. He is going back to Toronto mid August to perform in Boys in the Photograph until November. I'm sure we will have a few more hangs before he takes off.
On Saturday I went to class in the morning, then met up with Henry Hey to go sailing. Henry and Dave both come into Toronto to play at The Rex, where I worked for three years. So, a month ago, when Henry was in Toronto playing with The Chris Tarry Group and heard that I was moving to New York, right away he asked if I wanted to go sailing. It didn't take long for that to actually happen! It was so fun, and beautiful, and peaceful. We borrowed Chris' car and drove north of the Bronx to City Island and sailed along the Long Island Sound. You could see Queens, and in the distance past the bridges through the smog you can see Manhattan. It was a great escape from the city. I got home so relaxed after that. An amazing afternoon. Hopefully there will be more adventures on the boat.
On sunday I went to class, and was fully planning on checking out some music in the evening, but I wasn't really feeling well. It was a gross rainy day anyways. I ended up renting a few movies and hanging out at home. I really needed the down time. I was missing the brain release of watching TV, so a few movies in the evening really helped me chill.
Pretty good week three I think! Excited to see Max tonight, also excited to meet up with Shauna Hoskin, who I danced with in Edmonton as a kid, just like Pam and Jess Pecush who I met up with last week. Shauna has been based out of New York around the same time I moved to Toronto. We haven't been in touch for a while, so I am really looking forward to catching up.
till next week...
at xo
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Week two....
Somehow I deleted my first post, which really makes me upset....because it took me a long time to write and there was some good stuff! So, I hope you got to read it. As for week two...
it started off with learning a new Eddie Brown piece that I had mentioned at the end of my last entry. (As part of Heather Cornell's intensive) This piece is 3 choruses with some parallels to the B.S. Chorus, which made it easier to learn and adjust to Eddie's style. Its absolutely beautiful and super interesting, and I am in love with a new work that I get to practice! In the afternoon classes we got to have one more opportunity to dance with the African Balafon players, a few classes with Andy Milne, and also a few classes playing with grooves, and our own approaches to and arrangements of Cuban and Brazilian tunes. I got to dance and come up with an arrangement with two fellow Canadians, Danny Neilson and Matt Sheilds, who are exceptionally talented, super incredible dancers. There were a handful of Canadians there, and from all of the discussions and display of mad talent, I developed more hope that we can actually gain some recognition as established artists who TAP in Canada!!
Andy Milne...check out his music...www.andymilne.com . Listen to "Three Points of Contact" from Finding Synesthesia. This is from the show that I saw Heather in last summer at The Harbourfront Centre in Toronto...me and only 5 other people were at this performance because the Harbourfront did a HORRIBLE job of advertising!!!! AND IT WAS FREE!!!!! Anyways, its a real shame that not many people got to see and hear what Heather and Andy were up to. They plan to tour it more extensively in the future, so look out for it! In class we played a piece Andy wrote that was in 7/4, and worked different sections, counterpointing them, while finding different lines in the music. There was a distinct bass line, a 2 part body percussion counterpoint, melody, and a few drum lines. It challenged all of us in different ways, and completely opened up our brains!!!
All in all, the intensive was a wicked experience. I felt as if I could go home after these two weeks and have loads of material in my system to practice...but nope, 2 and a half more months of tap bliss for me!
So in the meantime I have taken class with Derick Grant, Barbara Duffy, Andrew Nemr, Lisa Latouche, and I had a private session with BRENDA BUFALINO! I also took another class which was supposed to be taught by Michelle Dorrance who's class I LOVE, but there was a sub, and I don't think I ever wanted to ditch a class so badly in my life. Of course I would never be so disrespectful, but needless to say, I really missed Michelle! As for everyone else...wicked. Derick has such a great teaching style. Its always challenging, and interesting. I tend to surprise myself when I get his choreography. I psyc myself out a bit because stylisically its out of my comfort zone, but if I just chill, I'll be okay.
I am always a fan of Barbara's class. She can get really intense, but I just LOVE her choreography, and she will find interesting ways to continue the challenge of a class if you're starting to feel comfy. My favourtie is her improv class which happens on thursday mornings, but she is out of town this week, and I happen to be going to a baseball game so I'll write on that all next week!
Andrew's class is pretty consistent. I didn't find it too challenging today, but I really respect him as a teacher, and will continue going to his class....and it was cool that he recognized me from last year. So many teachers in New York see so many students in the summer from all over the world, so I don't ever take it personally if someone doesn't remember me, so when they do, its kinda nice.
Lisa Latouche subbed today for Derick, and that was amazing!! Firstly, it was nice to finally connect and say hey since she is a fellow Canadian doing her thing here in NYC with much success! She is super close with my excellent tap friends Cathy and Travis, and is originally from Calgary, but told me today she was born in Edmonton. haa. Anyways, she was so warm, and her class was awesome, and I was so happy to be in touch with her after following her work for the last few years. She dances with Dormeshia every monday at the Cotton Club, so I will absolutely be checking that out soon! And now for Brenda...
so, first of all, in the last week, I have been reading her book for the third time, just to make sure I am familiar with everything Brenda to prepare myself for one on one time with one of my most major inspirations. That just got me so pumped to hang with her...I didn't need the info incase of a quiz or anything, I just couldn't wait to start! So, I get into the studio, and she was like..."did you bring any music" so, I put on my ipod and had to improvise for her. Ya, no pressure, don't be nervous, just improvise for your hero......go. The point was so she could take a look at how I dance and figure out how she is going to teach me. So, for the rest of the hour, I got a very detailed Brenda Bufalino technique lesson. She completely dissected the way I dance and threw new ideas at me on how to approach something as basic as a paddle and roll, (paradiddles) crawls, and riffs. She gave me a series of excersises just focusing on 8th notes. And she murdered my triplets...I thought I had solid triplets, not according to Brenda! She liked my tone, liked my phrasing, but says I lack power and don't approach my dancing like I am hitting all of my notes with enough emphasis. Fair enough. What's exciting is what I will develop from working with her!! I have had loads of material thrown at me, and I completely value my teachers and what my foundation has brought me thus far, but to have Brenda pick apart my techinque was pretty crazy awesome. At one point when I danced a phrase and then she danced the same phrase immediately following, the difference in our tone was like night and day...and I had to stop for a minute, because I got a little overwhelmed with excitement. At the end of the hour, she complimented me as a student. I applied what she gave me as immediately as possible, and she totally recognized that. That was so beyond cool. Next in my Brenda adventures, I will go to her house in the country for two days August 20th-21st to have a 2 day intensive mentorship. I will likely have a few more sessions in September as well. I was beaming the whole day. A top highlight so far, forsure.
Another highlight, which happened purely by chance, was having lunch with Harold Cromer. Harold was in a vaudeville act called Stump and Stumpy with James Cross, and continued on to have extensive solo success following his vaudeville days. He has been honoured as a living legend and is a celebrated presence amongst the tap community. So, he hangs out at a few diners around mid-town/hell's kitchen close by the studios and all the theatres. After Barbara's class on sunday, I was going out for one last lunch with Jussi and Hanaleena, two friends from Finland who were here for the intensive, and we ran into Harold! So, accompanied with lunch was a very entertaining, detailed, opinionated history lesson on composers, music theatre, tap now, tap then, and all the rest. Jussi and Hanaleena had to leave after about an hour to catch their flight, but I continued to hang out with Harold for an additional two and a half hours. He just ordered two scoops of chocolate ice cream and had a full cup of coffee, I couldn't leave him there to fly solo, and wouldn't abandon the lesson I was suddenly in. He opened up my eyes to a lot of re-examining of musical history that I learned, but we got into some pretty strong disagreements! All in all, it was an irreplaceable experience to hang out, discuss history, agree, disagree, and sing songs together in a random diner with Harold Cromer.
I checked out some awesome music at 55 bar. On saturday I saw KJ King, and on tuesday I saw Dave Binney play with Dan Weiss. These guys have played at The Rex many times, so it was cool to go and see them and say hey. Tomorrow I am going to a Mets game with Dave...as for you friends of mine that have gone to Jays games with me...I think I'd better behave myself at a baseball game this time, a bit anyways. haaa. So, that should be fun.
Last night I got to meet up with Pam and Jess Pecush who were visiting for a few days! I have known these girls since I was at least 10 years old, back in the day at Sandra Gray Dance School . Jess has been living in Toronto for the last year, and Pam is back in Edmonton after a short stint in Toronto and before living in NYC for a 9 month internship. It was so nice to have dinner and catch up! We went to a restaurant in Little Italy, and then I took them over to Greenwich Village to 55 Bar to hear Dave and Dan. But, before the music we planned on checking out, at our dinner table, a dapperly dressed little man approached our table, and offered us a list of song requests to choose from. So, to our surprise and medium delight we were serenaded by this random man. Now, we didn't see exactly where he came from to approach our table, so all of us assumed that his gig was part of the entertainment of the restaurant....ya...nope. So, he sang us a little song, and we politely applauded and thanked him, and he just stood there, awkwardly looking down. haaa. We all looked at each other in paralyzing awkward silence, and then we all reached for our purses, hovering to cover the bills in our wallet, and then tipped the poor gentleman. The wine had gotten to us, so our reaction time on its own was slow, but the post serenading actions of this man did not improve the situation. It was hilarious.
In other news, my roommate Mike gave me a lesson on how to put on a record. I watched closely, but am still afraid to touch his record collection. I have a new roommate as well named Jessica. She moved in yesterday and we had a pretty awesome chat. We were talking about Canadian tv, and her first question was "have you heard of Kenny vs. Spenny" I just laughed, then told her the story. For those of you that don't know, I went on a date with Kenny about 4 years ago, just before the show got big. The date obviously didn't go anywhere...maybe because of the fact that name dropping didn't impress me too much, or perhaps it was the countless cracks on his age...at the time I was 21. haaa. Memories. Anyways, everything to do with home is pretty solid.
That's pretty much it this week...
I get to start working with Max after his gig on August 4th...MUCH looking forward to that. Body percussion, afro-cuban land here I come.
till my next entry, hoping i don't accidentally erase this one as well...
at xo
it started off with learning a new Eddie Brown piece that I had mentioned at the end of my last entry. (As part of Heather Cornell's intensive) This piece is 3 choruses with some parallels to the B.S. Chorus, which made it easier to learn and adjust to Eddie's style. Its absolutely beautiful and super interesting, and I am in love with a new work that I get to practice! In the afternoon classes we got to have one more opportunity to dance with the African Balafon players, a few classes with Andy Milne, and also a few classes playing with grooves, and our own approaches to and arrangements of Cuban and Brazilian tunes. I got to dance and come up with an arrangement with two fellow Canadians, Danny Neilson and Matt Sheilds, who are exceptionally talented, super incredible dancers. There were a handful of Canadians there, and from all of the discussions and display of mad talent, I developed more hope that we can actually gain some recognition as established artists who TAP in Canada!!
Andy Milne...check out his music...www.andymilne.com . Listen to "Three Points of Contact" from Finding Synesthesia. This is from the show that I saw Heather in last summer at The Harbourfront Centre in Toronto...me and only 5 other people were at this performance because the Harbourfront did a HORRIBLE job of advertising!!!! AND IT WAS FREE!!!!! Anyways, its a real shame that not many people got to see and hear what Heather and Andy were up to. They plan to tour it more extensively in the future, so look out for it! In class we played a piece Andy wrote that was in 7/4, and worked different sections, counterpointing them, while finding different lines in the music. There was a distinct bass line, a 2 part body percussion counterpoint, melody, and a few drum lines. It challenged all of us in different ways, and completely opened up our brains!!!
All in all, the intensive was a wicked experience. I felt as if I could go home after these two weeks and have loads of material in my system to practice...but nope, 2 and a half more months of tap bliss for me!
So in the meantime I have taken class with Derick Grant, Barbara Duffy, Andrew Nemr, Lisa Latouche, and I had a private session with BRENDA BUFALINO! I also took another class which was supposed to be taught by Michelle Dorrance who's class I LOVE, but there was a sub, and I don't think I ever wanted to ditch a class so badly in my life. Of course I would never be so disrespectful, but needless to say, I really missed Michelle! As for everyone else...wicked. Derick has such a great teaching style. Its always challenging, and interesting. I tend to surprise myself when I get his choreography. I psyc myself out a bit because stylisically its out of my comfort zone, but if I just chill, I'll be okay.
I am always a fan of Barbara's class. She can get really intense, but I just LOVE her choreography, and she will find interesting ways to continue the challenge of a class if you're starting to feel comfy. My favourtie is her improv class which happens on thursday mornings, but she is out of town this week, and I happen to be going to a baseball game so I'll write on that all next week!
Andrew's class is pretty consistent. I didn't find it too challenging today, but I really respect him as a teacher, and will continue going to his class....and it was cool that he recognized me from last year. So many teachers in New York see so many students in the summer from all over the world, so I don't ever take it personally if someone doesn't remember me, so when they do, its kinda nice.
Lisa Latouche subbed today for Derick, and that was amazing!! Firstly, it was nice to finally connect and say hey since she is a fellow Canadian doing her thing here in NYC with much success! She is super close with my excellent tap friends Cathy and Travis, and is originally from Calgary, but told me today she was born in Edmonton. haa. Anyways, she was so warm, and her class was awesome, and I was so happy to be in touch with her after following her work for the last few years. She dances with Dormeshia every monday at the Cotton Club, so I will absolutely be checking that out soon! And now for Brenda...
so, first of all, in the last week, I have been reading her book for the third time, just to make sure I am familiar with everything Brenda to prepare myself for one on one time with one of my most major inspirations. That just got me so pumped to hang with her...I didn't need the info incase of a quiz or anything, I just couldn't wait to start! So, I get into the studio, and she was like..."did you bring any music" so, I put on my ipod and had to improvise for her. Ya, no pressure, don't be nervous, just improvise for your hero......go. The point was so she could take a look at how I dance and figure out how she is going to teach me. So, for the rest of the hour, I got a very detailed Brenda Bufalino technique lesson. She completely dissected the way I dance and threw new ideas at me on how to approach something as basic as a paddle and roll, (paradiddles) crawls, and riffs. She gave me a series of excersises just focusing on 8th notes. And she murdered my triplets...I thought I had solid triplets, not according to Brenda! She liked my tone, liked my phrasing, but says I lack power and don't approach my dancing like I am hitting all of my notes with enough emphasis. Fair enough. What's exciting is what I will develop from working with her!! I have had loads of material thrown at me, and I completely value my teachers and what my foundation has brought me thus far, but to have Brenda pick apart my techinque was pretty crazy awesome. At one point when I danced a phrase and then she danced the same phrase immediately following, the difference in our tone was like night and day...and I had to stop for a minute, because I got a little overwhelmed with excitement. At the end of the hour, she complimented me as a student. I applied what she gave me as immediately as possible, and she totally recognized that. That was so beyond cool. Next in my Brenda adventures, I will go to her house in the country for two days August 20th-21st to have a 2 day intensive mentorship. I will likely have a few more sessions in September as well. I was beaming the whole day. A top highlight so far, forsure.
Another highlight, which happened purely by chance, was having lunch with Harold Cromer. Harold was in a vaudeville act called Stump and Stumpy with James Cross, and continued on to have extensive solo success following his vaudeville days. He has been honoured as a living legend and is a celebrated presence amongst the tap community. So, he hangs out at a few diners around mid-town/hell's kitchen close by the studios and all the theatres. After Barbara's class on sunday, I was going out for one last lunch with Jussi and Hanaleena, two friends from Finland who were here for the intensive, and we ran into Harold! So, accompanied with lunch was a very entertaining, detailed, opinionated history lesson on composers, music theatre, tap now, tap then, and all the rest. Jussi and Hanaleena had to leave after about an hour to catch their flight, but I continued to hang out with Harold for an additional two and a half hours. He just ordered two scoops of chocolate ice cream and had a full cup of coffee, I couldn't leave him there to fly solo, and wouldn't abandon the lesson I was suddenly in. He opened up my eyes to a lot of re-examining of musical history that I learned, but we got into some pretty strong disagreements! All in all, it was an irreplaceable experience to hang out, discuss history, agree, disagree, and sing songs together in a random diner with Harold Cromer.
I checked out some awesome music at 55 bar. On saturday I saw KJ King, and on tuesday I saw Dave Binney play with Dan Weiss. These guys have played at The Rex many times, so it was cool to go and see them and say hey. Tomorrow I am going to a Mets game with Dave...as for you friends of mine that have gone to Jays games with me...I think I'd better behave myself at a baseball game this time, a bit anyways. haaa. So, that should be fun.
Last night I got to meet up with Pam and Jess Pecush who were visiting for a few days! I have known these girls since I was at least 10 years old, back in the day at Sandra Gray Dance School . Jess has been living in Toronto for the last year, and Pam is back in Edmonton after a short stint in Toronto and before living in NYC for a 9 month internship. It was so nice to have dinner and catch up! We went to a restaurant in Little Italy, and then I took them over to Greenwich Village to 55 Bar to hear Dave and Dan. But, before the music we planned on checking out, at our dinner table, a dapperly dressed little man approached our table, and offered us a list of song requests to choose from. So, to our surprise and medium delight we were serenaded by this random man. Now, we didn't see exactly where he came from to approach our table, so all of us assumed that his gig was part of the entertainment of the restaurant....ya...nope. So, he sang us a little song, and we politely applauded and thanked him, and he just stood there, awkwardly looking down. haaa. We all looked at each other in paralyzing awkward silence, and then we all reached for our purses, hovering to cover the bills in our wallet, and then tipped the poor gentleman. The wine had gotten to us, so our reaction time on its own was slow, but the post serenading actions of this man did not improve the situation. It was hilarious.
In other news, my roommate Mike gave me a lesson on how to put on a record. I watched closely, but am still afraid to touch his record collection. I have a new roommate as well named Jessica. She moved in yesterday and we had a pretty awesome chat. We were talking about Canadian tv, and her first question was "have you heard of Kenny vs. Spenny" I just laughed, then told her the story. For those of you that don't know, I went on a date with Kenny about 4 years ago, just before the show got big. The date obviously didn't go anywhere...maybe because of the fact that name dropping didn't impress me too much, or perhaps it was the countless cracks on his age...at the time I was 21. haaa. Memories. Anyways, everything to do with home is pretty solid.
That's pretty much it this week...
I get to start working with Max after his gig on August 4th...MUCH looking forward to that. Body percussion, afro-cuban land here I come.
till my next entry, hoping i don't accidentally erase this one as well...
at xo
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