We are pleased to say we have some exciting announcements for the start of our 19th season! The fall will bring many new opportunities to our students and we can not wait to welcome you back. We hope you all are having a relaxing summer and are looking forward to your return and a brand new year of dance.
A Newly Renovated Studio
There has been a lot of work going on during the summer such as new flooring, a new restroom, a fresh coat of paint and... well, you will just have to see for yourself. Miss Pat and I are super excited about this and can't wait for you all to dance in our new space.
An Adult Dance/Fitness Program
Have you always loved dance but were afraid to start a class? Did you dance when you were younger and would love to get back into it but don't want to be in a class with teenagers? Do you think dancers have great bodies and feel dance is a awesome way to stay in shape? Do you want to stay fit but don't want to commit to a membership at a gym with a yearly contract and an expensive enrollment fee? If you answered YES to any of these questions then you need to try Uptown Fitness and dance your way to a healthier you!! Classes such as...
Cardio Jazz: In this 45 minute class you’ll learn some classic jazz dance steps while burning major calories! You’ll never know it’s a fitness class, and leave with some sassy skills! Taught by Graziella Baratta
Cardio Hip Hop: Learn to dance like a music video vixen in this 45 minute calorie blasting class. Sweat = sexy, trust us! Taught by Graziella Baratta
Cardio Tap: Learn basic tap technique and tone your legs and core. This 45 minute class is all about your feet making a beat and sweating up a storm. *tap shoes required*
BalleTONE: 45 minutes of repetitious classical ballet technique with a fitness flare. If the dancers body is something that appeals to you... that long, strong, lean, sculpted shape, then this class is for you. If you like Pilates, you will LOVE BalleTONE! *yoga mat required*
Yoga: A combination of different styles of yoga. If you need to unwind from a long day and would like to increase flexibility while learning to use the power of your breath, then try this class. A very relaxing atmosphere where you can let it all go...don't we all deserve time like that to ourselves? *yoga mat required*
"U Can Dance"
A free program for children with special needs, held every other Sunday at Uptown. This program is something I have been wanting to start for sometime now and I am pleased to say I have some participants and people willing to help out to make U Can Dance a success. My student teachers will have the opportunity to donate their time to the program as well. And best of all, the children will also have the opportunity to perform in our annual recital and hopefully other local venues. Just like anything else, this program will take time to build. If you know of anyone interested in helping or participating please direct them to this post and our website.
I hope this post builds some excitement for you all for the Fall. This is time where I really start missing my dance family and can't wait to start the new season. By the way, for those of you who don't know, my final announcement...we will also have an exciting new addition in the form of a very tiny dancer in December! *wink wink*
As Always,
Peace, Love and Dance
~Miss Leslea
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Friday, July 16, 2010
National Dance Day
"As part of his commitment to support dance education and physical fitness in the United States, Nigel Lythgoe is launching National Dance Day on "So You Think You Can Dance." National Dance Day will take place on July 31, 2010 and will include a variety of dance-themed activities for people of all ages. It will empower, challenge and inspire everyone to try various styles of dance ranging from hip-hop to ballroom to anything that moves. Above all, it will encourage everyone to DANCE as a means to stay fit and be healthy."Thanks Nigel! What a perfect way to blend my passions in life for dance and fitness!
Miss Leslea and Uptown Dance have decided to challenge their students (and anyone else who would like to be involved) by posting a video response on their Facebook Fan Page. Your video should include your contribution to National Dance Day...be creative!! If you can not think of something original just video yourself performing the NappyTabs routine as I have done. Don't forget to title your video National Dance Day and tag Miss Leslea so she doesn't miss it. Three finalist will be selected based on enthusiasm and creativity. The winner will be based on fan votes and featured in our blog and on our fan page. *The deadline to submit your video is July 31, 2010 at 11:59pm ET.*
The NappyTabs Dance Day Routine
A Post from the SYTYCD Blog...
Get Excited for National Dance Day
So You Think You Can Dance executive producer and judge Nigel Lythgoe would like to declare July 31, NATIONAL DANCE DAY.
WHAT: NATIONAL DANCE DAY, a grassroots initiative that encourages the nation, young and old, to move! Individuals, families, organizations and communities from across the nation come together through their creative expression in dance. Any style of dance is welcome and imagination is recommended in order to get the most out of this celebratory day.
WHEN: Saturday, July 31
WHY: To continue to generate national awareness for dance, a medium of expression and storytelling which, through shows like So You Think You Can Dance, has proven its value in bringing individuals from all walks of life together through a positive platform that has no boundaries and cultivates imagination and passion. Most importantly, the day is intended to promote health and wellness nationwide.
Nigel has been tweeting up a storm about National Dance Day, a.k.a. D-Day. He said the goal is to “prove that the ‘Power of Dance’ can MOVE an entire Country!” So get up off the couch and put on your dancing shoes on July 31st. Share your D-Day ideas in the SYTYCD forums and stay tuned to this site for more information to come.
Take It A Step Further...
Submit your plans for National Dance Day to the SYTYCD website and you may be contacted by the producers and mentioned in an episode! *The deadline to submit your idea is July 16, 2010 at 11:59pm ET.* For more information please visit www.fox.com/dance/ndd/Hope you all have fun with National Dance Day and I look forward to your contributions.
Peace, Love and Dance!
~Leslea
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
**Guest Blog Post for Backdrops Beautiful**The Benefits of Social Media in Dance
I wrote a similar post almost two years ago called The Power of the Net , It's amazing how things change. We had just started our journey incorporating social media within our studio. I am happy to say I have learned a lot in these two years. For example; what works and what doesn't, what to keep your eyes open for (the good, bad, and the ugly), and social media etiquette. I will speak a bit more about those later, but for now lets talk about the benefits of social media for dance. I will list a few examples, but as most of you already know the opportunities with social media are endless.
A Professional Dancer:
With a few simple tools such as Facebook and Twitter, you can promote yourself as a dancer and connect with several other people in your industry. You can post your performances to get a bigger fan base and connect with those who may have information on the latest auditions in your area.
Dance Teachers:
Similar to the above, teachers can promote themselves and connect with people in their industry. They can share ideas, thoughts, and concerns with teachers from around the world. Teachers can also stay connected with their students, but make sure you check with your studios policy on contact with students online. My suggestion is create a separate Fan page or Twitter account, keep your personal life personal and your contact with your students professional.
Studio Owners:
Can do all of the above plus created networks, blogs and of course websites for their business. Please see my networking list in my previous post for examples. What I have done, and what you will do over time, is narrow down the sites you use for networking. If you have experience with social media you know that it can become a bit overwhelming and time consuming, a great example of less is more and quality not quantity.
Find Out What Works Best For You and What Doesn't.
For me it's convenience, that's why I love and stick to my Facebook Fan page, YouTube and Twitter accounts for networking. What's great about these three is you can sync your accounts, which saves time. Then of course we have the Blog and Ning Network. What I recommend doing is keeping things clean and simple all on one site. I did this on my personal site and plan on doing it for the studio soon. You will notice that I have a blog and network all in one place on one site, that way it eliminates your customers and fans from having to navigate away from your main site and eliminates you having to post in several places. With my dance studio I would no longer have to have a Ning network or a blogger account, it would be all in one place as I said before.
Narrow Down Your Network
For help and support I've narrowed down my list to Dancestudioowner.com and Danceadvantage.net. Now especially, there are tons of sites and blogs to lend a helping hand and give advice to the dance industry. Again, find what suites you and makes your experience convenient.
What to Keep Your Eyes Open For
It's ironic because at the same time I was asked to be a guest blogger, my circle of online dance buds did a Social Smarts Live Chat . This very informative event was hosted by Nichelle of Dance Advantage, Suzanne of Dance Studio Owner, and Marc of Tendu TV. By visiting the Social Smarts link you can get the opinions of some great people who have experience with Social Media and Dance. Social media is open for anyone, and we are all here for different reasons. My advice would be to surround yourself with people of similar interest and common goals... not to far off from how you would conduct yourself in "real life."
Social Media Etiquette
This is something I would like to give my opinion on for those of you just starting out. I know you are excited and see many benefits and opportunities. Just remember that you will build a reputation online just as you do out in the real world. Be polite and courteous of other peoples time and what you ask of them. A few examples...
As I explained before, we will all use Social Media for different reasons. Some are trying to sell a particular product, some simply want to socialize, and some are here just to get themselves out there and known. I happen to like keeping it fun, I'm not pushing my studio or myself in anyway, I just hope people become more aware of my presence and if I happen to get a new student or client this way, then great! Social Media for me is just an addition to the advertising we do already and a fun way to share ideas and meet other great dance industry people.
I shall leave you with two perfect examples of what I'm talking about.
First example, My Ning Network...
Second example, Why Dance Matters ... a virtual event that rallies the dance community online created by my friend Nichelle of Dance Advantange. This was an amazing event to participate in and witness...the love and appreciation for dance was overwhelming! Below are my contributions to the event...
I hope you find this post and information useful. For me this was just another effort to spread my love and passion for dance. Thanks to Backdrops Beautiful for the topic and opportunity to be a guest blogger for their site. I thank you all for reading and as always...
Peace, Love, Dance!
~ Leslea
A Professional Dancer:
With a few simple tools such as Facebook and Twitter, you can promote yourself as a dancer and connect with several other people in your industry. You can post your performances to get a bigger fan base and connect with those who may have information on the latest auditions in your area.
Dance Teachers:
Similar to the above, teachers can promote themselves and connect with people in their industry. They can share ideas, thoughts, and concerns with teachers from around the world. Teachers can also stay connected with their students, but make sure you check with your studios policy on contact with students online. My suggestion is create a separate Fan page or Twitter account, keep your personal life personal and your contact with your students professional.
Studio Owners:
Can do all of the above plus created networks, blogs and of course websites for their business. Please see my networking list in my previous post for examples. What I have done, and what you will do over time, is narrow down the sites you use for networking. If you have experience with social media you know that it can become a bit overwhelming and time consuming, a great example of less is more and quality not quantity.
Find Out What Works Best For You and What Doesn't.
For me it's convenience, that's why I love and stick to my Facebook Fan page, YouTube and Twitter accounts for networking. What's great about these three is you can sync your accounts, which saves time. Then of course we have the Blog and Ning Network. What I recommend doing is keeping things clean and simple all on one site. I did this on my personal site and plan on doing it for the studio soon. You will notice that I have a blog and network all in one place on one site, that way it eliminates your customers and fans from having to navigate away from your main site and eliminates you having to post in several places. With my dance studio I would no longer have to have a Ning network or a blogger account, it would be all in one place as I said before.
Narrow Down Your Network
For help and support I've narrowed down my list to Dancestudioowner.com and Danceadvantage.net. Now especially, there are tons of sites and blogs to lend a helping hand and give advice to the dance industry. Again, find what suites you and makes your experience convenient.
What to Keep Your Eyes Open For
It's ironic because at the same time I was asked to be a guest blogger, my circle of online dance buds did a Social Smarts Live Chat . This very informative event was hosted by Nichelle of Dance Advantage, Suzanne of Dance Studio Owner, and Marc of Tendu TV. By visiting the Social Smarts link you can get the opinions of some great people who have experience with Social Media and Dance. Social media is open for anyone, and we are all here for different reasons. My advice would be to surround yourself with people of similar interest and common goals... not to far off from how you would conduct yourself in "real life."
Social Media Etiquette
This is something I would like to give my opinion on for those of you just starting out. I know you are excited and see many benefits and opportunities. Just remember that you will build a reputation online just as you do out in the real world. Be polite and courteous of other peoples time and what you ask of them. A few examples...
- Do not tweet to often and flood peoples stream with tweets
- Do respond to relevant questions or posts
- Do not beg for followers or people to participate in what you are doing
- Do remain professional at all times
- What do you hear of more often, a person reading the yellow pages or a person googling the information they need?
- What do you see more often, a person reading the newspaper or someone with and ipad, personal reader, or iphone?
- How are the younger generation communicating, through telephone or real life conversations or by Tweeting and Facebooking each other?
- How has our lines of communication changed, do we talk on the phone at all anymore or do we just text?
- How has our society evolved as far as communication and advertising?
- Is Social Media right for you and your business?
As I explained before, we will all use Social Media for different reasons. Some are trying to sell a particular product, some simply want to socialize, and some are here just to get themselves out there and known. I happen to like keeping it fun, I'm not pushing my studio or myself in anyway, I just hope people become more aware of my presence and if I happen to get a new student or client this way, then great! Social Media for me is just an addition to the advertising we do already and a fun way to share ideas and meet other great dance industry people.
I shall leave you with two perfect examples of what I'm talking about.
First example, My Ning Network...
"Thank you for your support in my effort to create a positive, motivating, non competitive place for us to interact and share our love for dance. My goal is to be well known as a encouraging support system to our Dance community, and best of all, its Free! Help me in my effort and ask others who love dance in NJ to join too. Get yourself a badge or send them and invite. Questions, comments, suggestions are always welcome. I look forward to hearing from you all. Peace, Love, Dance!"
Second example, Why Dance Matters ... a virtual event that rallies the dance community online created by my friend Nichelle of Dance Advantange. This was an amazing event to participate in and witness...the love and appreciation for dance was overwhelming! Below are my contributions to the event...
I hope you find this post and information useful. For me this was just another effort to spread my love and passion for dance. Thanks to Backdrops Beautiful for the topic and opportunity to be a guest blogger for their site. I thank you all for reading and as always...
Peace, Love, Dance!
~ Leslea
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Why Dance Matters
"Why Dance Matters is a virtual event that rallies the dance community on Facebook and beyond." Nichelle Strzepek of Dance Advantage gives us the opportunity to "affirm the impact dance has on the lives of individuals and communities." The event will be held between Arts Advocacy Day (April 12) and the close of National Dance Week (May 2). Learn how you can participate in Why Dance Matters... http://tinyurl.com/ycgomnlWhy Dance Matters to me...
As a child, dance taught me what is was like to be passionate about something. It gave me confidence and joy... It brought me closer to my soul. As I grew, I learned how dance became an outlet, my stress reliever. When I danced I thought of nothing else... It brought me closer to my soul. As a young adult, I started appreciating dance as an art form. My desire to perform grew stronger, sharing my gift made me happy... It brought me closer to my soul. At this stage in my life I am an instructor and studio owner. I can't imagine my life with out dance or the ability to pass my love onto others. To dance is to be free... It brings us closer to our souls.
Why Dance Matters is brought to you by http://danceadvantage.net
With the help of the following friends and partners:
Rene Michaels http://photosbyrene.com/dance_action_portfolio.htm
http://DanceStudioOwner.com
http://TenduTV.com
http://movecreateeducate.blogspot.com
http://www.artintercepts.org
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Uptown Entertainment
About a year ago I started advertising the services we provide other than dance instruction to children and young adults. Services such as my mother and I providing Quinceanera choreography, hosting children's birthday parties, or choreographing first dances at weddings to those who inquired. Thankfully, the clients were always very happy with our work. I also have had several years of what is know as "party motivating" experience. This is when a dancer accompanies the DJ to get the crowd dancing at parties. So, I figured why not make this bigger and advertise to our current costumers. Our regular clients had no idea we provide these services, so lets make it known! With that Uptown Entertainment was born.
And most recently a entire wedding party brought some excitement to their entrance into the church with this...
The bridal party I worked with did a Michael Jackson melody as a tribute. The bride found the piece on YouTube and I simply recreated it for them. There were 8 couples in total who met at the studio for rehearsal a few days prior to the wedding. This was the end result...
You can have your event at Uptown Dance or we will travel to your location
Kids: Great for unique Birthday parties, or any occasion to have fun!
*Themed Dance Party (Hannah Montana, High School Musical, Enchanted, etc.)
*Freestyle Fun (We will lead, kids will enjoy Cha Cha Slide, Cotton Eye Joe, Peanut Butter Jelly time, etc.)
*Learn To Dance Party (You pick the form of dance and we will do the rest)
Teens & Adults: Birthdays, Mitzvahs, Quinceanera, Sweet16,
30th, 50th, Weddings, Anniversary, Corporate Events, or any occasion
*Professional Choreographed Dancers
*Party Motivators
*G-Volution Dance Company
Maybe you just need help preparing for your event
*Ballroom wedding dance instruction
*Quinceanera choreography
*Learn the latest dances done at parties
*We also have a list of vendors we would be happy to recommend
One of the most recent events was a students Birthday Party. She picked the theme of High School Musical. We warmed up and played dance related games to all 3 soundtracks from the movies, then I taught them some simple choreography to I Want It All. The kids ate, opened presents and had yummy cupcakes. It was a lot of fun and most importantly the birthday girl and others had a blast!
And most recently a entire wedding party brought some excitement to their entrance into the church with this...
The bridal party I worked with did a Michael Jackson melody as a tribute. The bride found the piece on YouTube and I simply recreated it for them. There were 8 couples in total who met at the studio for rehearsal a few days prior to the wedding. This was the end result...
After this dance my girls and I performed a contemporary ballet piece to Dangerously In Love.
It was a very unique wedding which we were thrilled to be a part of. I hope this trend continues, because this line of work is very exciting for us. It also gives my older students an opportunity to perform outside of the studio.
It was a very unique wedding which we were thrilled to be a part of. I hope this trend continues, because this line of work is very exciting for us. It also gives my older students an opportunity to perform outside of the studio.
If you are in the tri state area and have an event that needs a special touch, something unique that will make your occasion stand out, contact Uptown Entertainment. We will help you create an idea that will be memorable for you and your guests.
Thanks for taking the time to check us out and reading our blog. If you enjoy what we do please become a fan of the blog by clicking the follow button on the main page.
Until next time,
Peace, Love, and Dance!
~Miss Leslea
Thanks for taking the time to check us out and reading our blog. If you enjoy what we do please become a fan of the blog by clicking the follow button on the main page.
Until next time,
Peace, Love, and Dance!
~Miss Leslea
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Fall Fashions For Dancers
If you are like me, then most likely you own more dance attire than regular clothing. I for one look just as forward to making a statement in the studio as I do out on the town. How do you dress for class? I'll be sharing some of my favs as well as the opinions of some other dancers. While reading, let's keep in mind our studios dress code of course, I realize this limits some of us. Enjoy! and please feel free to comment and leave your favorites and the end.
I remember the time where there were not many choices for dancers as far as shoes and apparel where concerned. We had Capezio and Danskin, that was pretty much it. Don't get me wrong, I still get products from both these wonderful companies, however today its all about options, there are tons of companies who supply dancers with what they need. We have so many choices! Let's talk about style, preference and a few options that you may or may not be aware of.
As far as our studio is concerned, we keep things simple. Little ones shoes are all the same color and brand (Capezio) which we provide at the studio. Older students have a more complex shoe list which they can either order through our studio or go to a very nice local shop called Dance Wear Etc. Heather Corneliess, the owner and also a dancer, is extremely helpful and carries mostly Capezio and Bloch for shoes and the trendiest attire for class. I will discuss some of the other brands she carries later on. You can read more about Heather here on NJ Dancers
For me personally I have two styles, one if I'm teaching and the other if I'm auditioning or taking a class. Like I said before if you are taking a class it's always a good idea to check for a dress code and respect it. If there is not one I will try to wear something that makes me feel good and flatters my body type, nothing too bold or over the top. Lets face it, when we feel good and look nice, our confidence is up and we will dancer better. Think about performance day in your beautiful costume, well I like to think of classes as mini performances and put a little effort into my appearance. You never know who may be watching. Auditions you have to dress the part, and most likely they will tell you what to wear. Again, you want to stand out but not be the talk of the casting panel (in a bad way). Don't wear all black (unless required) and don't wear florescent pink and mis-matched legwarmers.
For teaching, which is where I spend most of my time at this point in my life, I have some links and examples.
Sugar and Bruno: can be found at Dance Wear Etc. Nutley NJ
Eighteen21: can be found on the Dance Wear Solutions website
Urban Groove: also found on the Dance Wear Solutions website
Tia's Dancewear: The official site or Dance Wear Etc. Nutley NJ or Dance Wear Solutions
You may also want to check out some local designer for a unique look. I was fortunate enough to meet a wonderfully talented young women on Twitter who's designs are perfect for dancers. Studio owners may even want to contact her to make up an original logo or new line of clothing for their students. Follow and/or contact Im Soul Fly
Check out her stuff here imsoulfly.com.
I was also able to get the opinion of two dance friends on Twitter:
Victoria, owner of Allegro Dance Boutique in Evanston, IL
AllegroDanceBoutiques.com recommends her favorite leos:
~Vala Dancewear
~Yumiko
~Body Wrappers Premiere Collection
~Mirella Jozette Collection
Thanks to Victoria for this wonderful information. Make sure to follow her on Twitter or visit her store if you are in the area.
TerrenceTaps, one of my first dance friends on Twitter; a professional tap dancer, blogger and founder of tapdanceman.com. He recommends and wears Miller & Ben's. He also has a wonderful blog post about Tap Shoes on his website, this is worth the read tappers!! You will notice some really cute, trendy T's for tap class on the bottom left as well. Here is that link
Thanks so much Taps, you are the best and you are such an inspiration to me and other dancers. Keep up the great work you do!
I'd like to thank everyone who contributed to this post and all the wonderful designers and clothing and shoe lines who make dancers look and feel fabulous. I'm extremely excited about how many options there are for us now. Thanks to YOU too for reading, I hope you enjoyed and got some fresh new ideas.
Peace, Love, and Dance!!
~Miss Leslea
I remember the time where there were not many choices for dancers as far as shoes and apparel where concerned. We had Capezio and Danskin, that was pretty much it. Don't get me wrong, I still get products from both these wonderful companies, however today its all about options, there are tons of companies who supply dancers with what they need. We have so many choices! Let's talk about style, preference and a few options that you may or may not be aware of.
As far as our studio is concerned, we keep things simple. Little ones shoes are all the same color and brand (Capezio) which we provide at the studio. Older students have a more complex shoe list which they can either order through our studio or go to a very nice local shop called Dance Wear Etc. Heather Corneliess, the owner and also a dancer, is extremely helpful and carries mostly Capezio and Bloch for shoes and the trendiest attire for class. I will discuss some of the other brands she carries later on. You can read more about Heather here on NJ Dancers
For me personally I have two styles, one if I'm teaching and the other if I'm auditioning or taking a class. Like I said before if you are taking a class it's always a good idea to check for a dress code and respect it. If there is not one I will try to wear something that makes me feel good and flatters my body type, nothing too bold or over the top. Lets face it, when we feel good and look nice, our confidence is up and we will dancer better. Think about performance day in your beautiful costume, well I like to think of classes as mini performances and put a little effort into my appearance. You never know who may be watching. Auditions you have to dress the part, and most likely they will tell you what to wear. Again, you want to stand out but not be the talk of the casting panel (in a bad way). Don't wear all black (unless required) and don't wear florescent pink and mis-matched legwarmers.
For teaching, which is where I spend most of my time at this point in my life, I have some links and examples.
Sugar and Bruno: can be found at Dance Wear Etc. Nutley NJ
Eighteen21: can be found on the Dance Wear Solutions website
Urban Groove: also found on the Dance Wear Solutions website
Tia's Dancewear: The official site or Dance Wear Etc. Nutley NJ or Dance Wear Solutions
You may also want to check out some local designer for a unique look. I was fortunate enough to meet a wonderfully talented young women on Twitter who's designs are perfect for dancers. Studio owners may even want to contact her to make up an original logo or new line of clothing for their students. Follow and/or contact Im Soul Fly
Check out her stuff here imsoulfly.com.
I was also able to get the opinion of two dance friends on Twitter:
Victoria, owner of Allegro Dance Boutique in Evanston, IL
AllegroDanceBoutiques.com recommends her favorite leos:
~Vala Dancewear
~Yumiko
~Body Wrappers Premiere Collection
~Mirella Jozette Collection
Thanks to Victoria for this wonderful information. Make sure to follow her on Twitter or visit her store if you are in the area.
TerrenceTaps, one of my first dance friends on Twitter; a professional tap dancer, blogger and founder of tapdanceman.com. He recommends and wears Miller & Ben's. He also has a wonderful blog post about Tap Shoes on his website, this is worth the read tappers!! You will notice some really cute, trendy T's for tap class on the bottom left as well. Here is that link
Thanks so much Taps, you are the best and you are such an inspiration to me and other dancers. Keep up the great work you do!
I'd like to thank everyone who contributed to this post and all the wonderful designers and clothing and shoe lines who make dancers look and feel fabulous. I'm extremely excited about how many options there are for us now. Thanks to YOU too for reading, I hope you enjoyed and got some fresh new ideas.
Peace, Love, and Dance!!
~Miss Leslea
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