Mixed Feelings

When first asked how I felt about The Big Dance event I said, "Disappointed and I doubt I'll return next year." Now, I have mixed feelings. I thought about why I felt that way. When I arrived I was in a great mood having spent most of my day out in the warm sunshine engaged in an creative, artistic endeavor. I was looking forward to a diverse evening. After arriving, there was something missing besides the few signs & directions as to where the ballrooms were located. An attendant didn’t even know the information. I joined an adventurous group and found my way. The elevator doors closed so quickly it was hard to catch a ride. The lack of Salseros wasn't it. A few of us discussed whether the salsa community had advertised it well. It was on the Yasalsa web site but where else? Were there too many other salsa events going on ? Are Salseros not willing to pay the price? For Salsa, the Colonnade Room lacked ambiance reminding me of "Hall" parties. The set up of the room blocks the view of the dancers with pillars and the dance floor is across the room against a wall. The large dressed tables lacked decoration. It paled in comparison to the Crystal & Fountain Ballrooms with their crystal chandeliers, surrounding private and open seating, terraces for viewing, and large dance floors.

The energy wasn't right. I had gone with the hopes of rekindling my ballroom & limited Swing & Hustle skills as well as to enjoy my passion for Salsa. Unfortunately, I missed the dance lessons due to personal conflicting events. That may have been to my detriment in getting to know some fellow dancers and upgrading my skills. I found no leaders in the other ballrooms willing to take on a novice dancer.

Maybe I wanted to see more competition of the stars attempting a dance form they are unaccustomed to performing. Maybe more theatrics?

I socialized with friends & acquaintances. It was good to see old friends as well as familiar faces. A few gents I danced & conversed with left soon after arriving expressing their displeasure. One, a former native of Detroit who moved to Chicago, had the misconception of being able to dance Meringue. I was actually disappointed there wasn't a Meringue playing after having the pleasure of dancing with him years ago. He made it an art form with a spicy flair.

I will say I enjoyed the performances. Argentine Tango is an artfully, sensual dance worth watching although I am not a huge fan of the music. The Big Band music & Ballroom Dance brought back pleasant memories. It was a pleasure to see couples “working” the room utilizing the entire dance floor. Some spiced things up with sassy steps or strong leads with creative flair. It is always a delight to see my friend, Julie in her element dancing Swing. The Energetic Soul Dance Troupe demonstrated their skills in rueda de casino with spice.

Dancing with the Pros & the Jack & Jill contests were entertaining. They provided the observer with styles to incorporate into their own dancing experiences. Or to keep in mind who they would like to dance with in the future.

As for the patrons being dressed up I have to disagree in part. There were few men in suits or dress shirts & dress pants ( That had my attention since I love a man in a tailored suit, shirt and trousers with dress shoes. Um Um Um! Thanks guys!). Some ladies were elegantly attired. For the most part it was dressy casual attire. Nice, not elegant. Guess my idea of elegant is formal wear which is what I expected to see more widely displayed. Perhaps a misconception on my part not frequenting the ballroom, swing, & hustle venues of late?

I appreciate all of the hard work and organizational skills of the planners and volunteers. It takes a lot to pull off a successful event. My thanks to the instructors who spent countless hours attending the masses sharing their skills. The music was very diverse and entertaining which I truly enjoyed.

So, I guess my disappointments stem from my expectations of what I thought it was going to be versus the reality of the event itself. Going next year?..............we’ll see how I progress in diversifying my dance style.......................and, then...................you tell me!
Sharon