In late 1999, Becky was asked by some of her students to create a Tango choreography for a vintage dance event called PEERS. This created a lot of interest with people who wanted to learn how to work with set choreographies. Becky asked Mark Napier to work with her as Dance Captain and partner and together they started the first class with 26 people. Class and rehearsals have caused the group to concentrate down to 8-10 dedicated student dancers. It has been a challenging but fun experience for all. The group learned to count the music, hearing both the basic beat and the melody. From there, the set figures were learned and how important it is to be in sync with each other. Everyone involved feels that their dancing has improved, making them better social dancers too. They have worked on the technique and executing of many complicated steps also perfecting lead and follow. Set choreographies need to be led with good technique and timing and followed well to be in sync with other couples.

Once the group had a piece to show, performance opportunities have sprung up. The student group has performed at six events this past year and have four events scheduled for 2001. They are at work on two more choreographies to add to the Tango and Vals they have completed.

If you are interested in the group performing at your company event, dance event or party, contact Becky Boosalis at 650-599-6055 or E-mail becky@tangobeckita.com

NEW GROUP CLASSES ON SET CHOREOGRAPHY
During the past year, people have requested to join the dance group but it has been hard to let people to enter the classes at the level they are at now. To accommodate the number of people that are interested in learning how choreography works we are beginning another class. Becky uses preset choreography as a way to help students understand how to count the music and focus on making each movement or step work perfectly with the music and their partner. Concentration on the technique of perfecting a few steps and moving together in partnership and as a whole group will be worked on each week. While this is Not a performance class with a performance schedule, the class will help any dancer who wishes to look better on the social dance floor. Led and follow is worked on as it is as important in set pieces as it is in improvisational dancing.