![[image] Dance instructor Michael Patterson, Brian and his son, Dominic [image]](https://www.danceadvantage.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/mengini-hope-dances-160x200.jpg)
Brian’s photography has been published on Dance Advantage, in most dance periodicals, as well as in the book, When Men Dance: Choreographing Masculinities Across Borders. Currently, he is working on a blog, Barre Boys, which spotlights men in ballet, and will produce accompanying live events featuring all male performers. Married with two children, Dominic, 9 and Michela, 7, Brian is a firm believer of giving back and giving voice and opportunity to those who don’t have one. I had a chat with Brian about another new and growing project he has in the works, Hope Dances, an initiative that aims to bring the benefits of dance to kids with special needs.
Beyond the Bubble
Convincing Parents to Value the Creative Dance Process
Process-based exploration of movement is actually great preparation for, and an integral part of the art form of dance. But do you have parents that just don’t get it? Here are some strategies and ways to cope with this frequent frustration of creative dance teachers.
Congratulations to the Top Dance Blogs of 2010!
It was a fierce competition in many of the Top Dance Blog categories! The closest race by far was in our Dance News and Criticism group with loveDancemore and Rogue Ballerina separated by only 1% of the votes. However it seemed until the end that it was just about anyone’s game in all of the groups. Here are your winners!
Vote Now For the Top Dance Blogs of 2010!
Dance blogs who rallied the most comments have made the cut for the final voting stage. Vote now for your favorites!
Preparing Little Dancers For The World of Clara and Beyond
Introduce students to narration, divertissement, characters, and themes by exploring The Nutcracker through creative movement. Stacey Pepper Schwartz breaks down the ballet in a way that young dancers can understand, providing an enriching experience that will enhance dance appreciation.
You Say Coupé, I Say Cou-de-pied
Cou de pied appears to be one of those steps that doesn’t line up with the whole “universal language of dance” idea. The Cecchetti Council’s printed syllabus calls this position “devant on the ankle,” but Ms. Gail Grant, calls it cou de pied. Many, many schools and teachers refer to it simply as “coupé” and do not differentiate between coupé the step and coupé the position.
