Gotham threw a major bash Saturday night! Dennis Riley and Lee Mansfield - the darlings of Hudson Valley - brought their laid back and very smooth style of teaching and DJing. Everyone wore red in honor of Valentine's Day. It was an excellent night!The snow and cold didn't deter NYC regulars; or those "haven't seen you in a while" friends from Jersey and the Island; and even a few newcomers from showing up. Everyone knows this classic NYC west coast swing dance is a sure thing for a good time.
http://www.denisandlee.com/
One of the highlights of the night was a very fun Jack n' Jill. Club members lined up to dance with a partner picked at random. Dennis and Lee were the judges. Up and coming Barbara Jackson pulled Vernon Smith and placed first. There was amazing chemistry and we may have just witnessed the birth of a very interesting competitive couple.
Dennis and Lee teach at Strictly Ballroom Dance Studio in New Windsor, New York. They are a couple of regular people who understand the process of learning to dance for untrained dancers. This is very helpful in a world of ballet trained, 20 somethings that inhale their way straight to the top of the west coast swing world. This is the power couple to watch!
The vibe was very comfortable. People circulated around the room and everyone danced with each other regardless of level. The event had a very relaxed feel to it. This is the kind of club that makes people want to join.
Whether you are a new dancer, someone who hasn't been dancing for a while or visiting the tri-state area, this is a great venue to drop in on. Gotham holds its dances on the first Saturday of each month. You'll be glad you came!
Gotham Swing Club dances are held at:
YSBD/Club 412, 412 Eighth Ave,
(between 30th/31st St), 4th Floor
New York City
http://www.gothamswingclub.org/
Thank you for the kind words regarding the Jack n Jill. Yes, I had so much fun getting paired with Vernon. He is a blast to dance with!
ReplyDeleteGotham is my favorite dance venue! You always feel welcomed there. Barbara J.