Big Dance

I'm not going to make a decisive statement on the Big Dance. It's the type of event to which the Detroit Salsa scene should aspire - a frilly, high profile, dress up event. While not nearly as big as it could be, with the Big Dance, MSDA attempts to do a very difficult thing - bring ballroom, swing, tango and salsa together and in that effort was somewhat successful.

Big Dance Photo Gallery...

I anticipated and expected an evening of fiery dancing on crowded dance floors with warm, sweaty bodies when I decided to spring for the forty dollar Big Dance ticket.

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.