The Color Purple Set To End 2 Year Run

"The Color Purple" will close Feb. 24 on Broadway after a run of more than two years.

The musical, based on Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of triumph over adversity, will have played 910 performances by the time the final curtain falls next month at the Broadway Theatre.

The current cast includes Zonya Love as Celie, Walker's determined heroine, as well as Grammy winners Chaka Khan and BeBe Winans and "American Idol" finalist LaKisha Jones.

The $11 million musical, which opened in December 2005, recouped its investment in less than year for the show's producers, who include Oprah Winfrey and Quincy Jones.

A touring company, starring LaToya London of "American Idol" and Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child, is currently playing Los Angeles. The tour is scheduled through 2009.

Source: backstage.com

A Tale Of Two Productions

To ring in the new year, I decided to take in both the old and the new. I attended two hefty dance concerts: a program by the New York City Ballet featuring four old favorites dating from 1956 to 2002, and Dance Theater Workshop's Fresh Tracks, an evening of six brand-new pieces, all by relatively unknown choreographers. I hate to draw pessimistic conclusions about the future of our art form, but while the seasoned ballets proved devilishly delightful, the new works, though sometimes fresh in concept, were too undercooked for audience consumption.

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Source: backstage.com

Shimmy Exclusive Interview- Hok Konishi

Recently, Shimmy had the opportunity to steal a few minutes of Hok Konishi's time. What follows are his thoughts on life after SYTYCD, art and a bit of gratitude as well.


Shimmy: What did you do once you were eliminated from SYTYCD?

Hok: Well, nothing too much really. Did some interviews, just jumped back into reality. I did a show in England and then came back the next day to start rehearsing for the tour!! I have to say I was shocked at first though!

Shimmy: What are you currently doing?

Hok: I am currently in Japan for a couple weeks trying to get my status straight, and then I am back in LA doing more things!

Shimmy: Tell us about your background (Where you've trained etc.)

Hok: Well I cant say I really have a strong "trained" background but I started dancing at a hiphop studio in Tokyo, did that for 3 years and then after that I just started practicing everyday at the train station (because studios were too expensive for us to rent)- hard floor, extremely hot in the summer, and extremely cold in the winter... probably the worst condition.

Shimmy: How did you get started in dance?

Hok: I watched a dance show in Japan and something just clicked inside me

Shimmy: What inspires you?

Hok: Anything and everything in life. I think that beauty exists everywhere, you just have to change perspectives sometimes and find it. Once you have done that, then you can tweak it and make it your original and then express it with dance, art and such.



Photo: Tania Gressell

Shimmy: What part of Japan are you from and do you return there often?

Tokyo. One of the best places I have been. The food is amazing!

Shimmy: What do you love and miss most about Japan and England as well?

Hok: Hmm, again I will have to say food and the convenience for Japan. and as for England, the freedom and my old friends... even though I have recently started talking to them again! I am so happy about that.

Shimmy: What other genre would you have liked to have tried while on SYTYCD?

Hok: Ohhh, I know that it is completely out of my field but I would have wanted to try contemporary.

Shimmy: What dance from the show (danced by someone else) was your favorite?

Hok: I really loved the top 8 dance done by Mia Michaels (Imogen Heap's The Moment I Said It)... amazing

Shimmy: Tell us more about your visual art.

Hok: Well I don't know if it could be categorized in "visual art" but I have always loved to draw since I was one years old. I was only able to actually "study" art at little classes at school and a year and a half at Santa Monica College by my mentor Nathan Ota (he is truly amazing!!). I really like to draw, paint and do some stuff on the computer too when I have the time.


Shimmy: If I put your ipod on shuffle who would I be listening to?

Hok: Ohh, probably something like Roisin Murphy, m.i.a., System of a Down, M-Flo, random hiphop beats

Shimmy: What are three things you cannot exist without?

Hok: My ibook, cellphone, and my Nintendo DS.... all electronics!

Shimmy: If in ten years you aren't dancing, what might you be doing instead?

Hok: Most likely taking my art more seriously, owning some kind of buisiness

Shimmy: What one thing would you like your fans to know?

Hok: I would really like them to know that I truly appreciated their support while I was on the show. I will be having a lot more to come with my crew QUEST so it would be great if they can keep their eyes out!

More Hok:

* Hok Konishi and Jaimie Goodwin on SYTYCD *


* Hok Solo Top 12 SYTYCD *
>

Videos by Joooeyyy

Kameron Bink Contemporary Workshop

Click image to enlarge.

The Ladies of Skating Are Actually Kids

Mirai Nagasu, a feathery 14-year-old from Arcadia, Calif., survived a fall on her opening double axel and gathered herself to land six triple jumps, including a gutsy triple lutz-triple toe combination that she landed immediately after her fall, to become the second youngest U.S. champion, 34 days older than was Tara Lipinski when she won in 1997.

Second place went to another Californian, 15-year-old Rachael Flatt, who landed seven clean triples, including a flawless triple lutz-triple toe combo, to amass 125.82 points in the long program, the most of any skater on this night of surprises. Sixteen-year-old Ashley Wagner from Alexandria, Va., another first-year senior, placed third, just .17 behind Flatt. Wagner, too, did a triple-triple -- a rare thing in these championships in years past. Fourth place went to yet another 14-year-old appearing in her first senior nationals competition, Caroline Zhang, a 4-foot-11 tot from Irvine, Calif. Of these top four finishers, only Wagner is old enough to compete at the World Championships in Gothenburg, Sweden, in March.


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Source: SI

Skating On Thin Ice?

Even by the standards of figure skating, this was a strange event.
The 2008 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, which ended Sunday, were filled with more oddities than a French judge's scorecard.

Somehow, despite a judging system that's more complex than a computer manual, Coatesville native Johnny Weir and rival Evan Lysacek ended the men's competition with the same score, 244.77. Lysacek was awarded his second straight title because he had bested Weir in the free skate.

The combined age of the top four finishers in the women's event - Mirai Nagasu (14), Rachael Flatt (15), Ashley Wagner (16) and Caroline Zhang (14) - is 59. That's 19 years younger than NBC commentator Dick Button.

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philly.com

Step Up 2: The Streets World Premiere

WHEN: Monday, February 4, 2007
--------------------------------------------------------------
5:00 PM Press Arrivals
6:00 PM Celebrity Arrivals
7:00 PM Screening

WHERE: ArcLight Theatre
6838 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, CA

STEP UP 2 THE STREETS is the follow-up to the smash hit "Step Up," which ignited theaters in August 2006. When rebellious street dancer Andie (BRIANA EVIGAN) lands at the elite Maryland School of the Arts, she finds herself fighting to fit in while also trying to hold onto her old life. When she joins forces with the school's hottest dancer, Chase (ROBERT HOFFMAN), to form a crew of classmate outcasts to compete in Baltimore's underground dance battle The Streets, she ultimately finds a way to live her dream while building a bridge between her two separate worlds.

Look for the hot Atlantic Records soundtrack exclusively featuring the # 1 smash hit "Low" by Flo Rida and T-Pain, plus new singles and videos from Missy Elliott, T-Pain, Enrique Iglesias, Trey Songz featuring Piles, Plies featuring Akon, Cassie, Cherish featuring Yung Joc and more.

Centre Daily

Theatre Flamenco

Founded in 1966 by Adela Clara, Theatre Flamenco was the first American resident dance company to stage full production of Spanish dance in the United States. The only dance company in San Francisco that is older than Theatre Flamenco is the San Francisco Ballet. Forty-two years is a long time for a nonballet company to exist, but the combination of an on-going legacy of dedicated dancers who love and respect Spanish dance, plus the direction and choreography of Miquel Santos, has sustained Theatre Flameno.

Featured among the five dancers will be Carola Zertuche, who began her dance career in Mexico City's Tablao Meson de Triana. Her studies have led her to many renowned. She has been featured as a soloist in Pilar Rioja's company "Reflejo Español" and danced with the Maria Elena Anaya Company under the artistic direction of Manolo Vargas and with other companies. Her dance has been showcased in such festivals as the Ethnic Dance Festival in San Francisco, the Santa Barbara Flamenco Festival and the Monterrey Mexico Flamenco Festival.

Keep Reading...

Source: The Pine Tree

Dance War- Motown Night

Did you watch? This show still tanks in my opinion. I had a hard time getting through the opening group number set to Land Of A Thousand Dances. My brain really thought that American Gladiators a few channels over might keep my attention better. Here's what some other viewers thought of last nights'... war.

Bruno must kick one member to the curb. He keeps Lacey, Philip, Tony and Zack, leaving Charity and Kelsey to sing solos for their preverbial lives. I'm surprised Tony wasn't in the bottom two because he messed up bad.

To make matters worse, the girls have to round robin "Don't Leave Me This Way" by Thelma Houston. Why don't you just have them sing "All By Myself." Both are such weaksauce singers, it really doesn't matter who stays and who goes.

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Second go around for Team Bruno as they sang and danced to Usher's hit, Caught Up and this was quite a disappointment. This is my favorite Usher song and they did not do it justice. Cringe-inducing vocals by the men did the song in. But, an interesting dance break saved it from being a total disaster.

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What did you think?

Your Mama Don't Dance Coming To Lifetime Network

This one kind of scares me.

Lifetime Television became the latest network to jump on the reality dance-competition craze with Your Mama Don’t Dance.

In the show, up-and-coming dancers will be paired with their parents, who have to learn some smooth moves to stay in the competition.

“Your Mama Don’t Dance distinguishes itself from other dance-competition shows because its point of view is truly unique. The relationships between the dancers and their parents will evolve during the eight weeks, and it will be both heartwarming and heartbreaking, with a lot of twists and unexpected turns along the way,” said Susanne Daniels, Lifetime’s president of entertainment, in a statement.

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Source: Broadcasting & Cable

Randy Jackson Presents: America's Best Dance Crew

MTV rocks the floor with the new competitive group dance series “Randy Jackson Presents: America’s Best Dance Crew” beginning Thursday, February 7 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Mario Lopez will host the exhilarating weekly series, and giving their feedback each week to the dance crews will be judges JC Chasez (N*Sync) and choreographer Shane Sparks (“You Got Served”). With exclusive content on-air, online, on demand and on mobile, viewers will have the opportunity to learn more about the individual dancers in each crew and how to copy some of their intricate moves.

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Source: Starpulse

Helio And Julianne Reunite To Tour

Hough is glowing with excitement about the next stage in what has become a rocket ship of a career. She hopes to compete again on Dancing's sixth season, then spend next summer touring as an opening act singer. "I'll always do this," she says, gesturing toward the dance floor. "Dancing will always be a passion. But I'm ready to move on to the next chapter of my life. I've been dancing since I was 10 years old. But I always wanted to sing. I actually moved to L.A. to become a singer. If I would've shown up in Nashville without the exposure of this show, it would've taken me three years just to get started. I owe everything to Dancing with the Stars."

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Source: Seattlepi.com

Movmnt On Its Way To Newsstands

Hello everyone, long time no post, I was 100% devoted to the coming issue and here are some fresh news...

The new movmnt featuring Sabra Johnson, Danny Tidwell and Neil Haskell is coming very soon...

It will be shipped to subscribers on Tuesday January 29th so depending where you live you can expect it first week of February or so. It will then hit newsstands February 11th. Movmnt is available in every B&N and B&N university nationwide, Universal News, and hundreds of selected newsstands throughout the US and Canada. It will also be available online for single copy sale as well as with a subscription at www.movmnt.com

This is our best issue to date. :-) Well that's what i say every time but it's true. We are trying to improve each time. One special treat... SYTYCD lovers will love the free folded poster included in this issue... The poster will mark the launch of our non for profit campaign "Keep it Real" to bring back to the community and bring awareness to issues that touches us the most.

Also, movmnt has its own social network. For those who love music, dance, fashion, for the pop culture generation that moves in style, join movmnt.net and lets shake our world, share your videos, pictures, create your own blog...

See you on the other network...

Stay tuned, for more news...

David Benaym,
Editor in Chief, Publisher of movmnt magazine

Belbin And Agosto Win- Again

No surprises in ice dance, just more surpassing excellence from Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto. The Olympic silver medalists won their record-tying fifth title with a technically ambitious and beautifully executed performance to music by Chopin. They scored 216.07 points, easily beating training partners Meryl Davis and Charlie White.

"I said to Ben at the end, `This is the best in years,'" Belbin said.

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Source: Associated Press

14 Year Old Nagasu Second Youngest To Win U.S. Title

Now this is what figure skating has been looking for. Mirai Nagasu delighted the crowd — and herself — with a refreshing and entertaining show at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships on Saturday night. Oh yeah, the 14-year-old became the second-youngest woman to win the U.S. title, too.

That other mighty mite, Olympic gold medalist Tara Lipinski, ended up doing pretty well for herself.

When her scores flashed, Nagasu looked at the screen with curiosity. When she heard she'd won, she said, "What?" then clapped her hands to her face and broke into a grin.

"I am very excited and speechless for words," Nagasu said.

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Source: Associated Press

A Few Of The U.S. Skating Championships Most Memorable Moments

John Baldwin and Rena Inoue are another pair paving their way together.

On Saturday, they had just finished their silver-medal winning performance when John went down on one knee -- in the middle of the rink, while the national t.v. cameras were still rolling.

"I actually thought when I woke up this morning I was going to do it, I was going to propose to Rena," John said.

"I was just so shocked I think I lost myself a little bit," Rena said. "I never expected he was going to do that at this moment."

And while millions watched the question, few caught the answer. It was "yes." It was the answer that would earn the pair a perfect score.

Keep Reading...

Source: Kare 11

Baryshnikov At 60

Happy birthday, Misha.

On Sunday, Mikhail Baryshnikov celebrates his 60th, a landmark that some of us greet with a sigh of relief, which is generally accompanied by a few extra creaks in the joints. But the dance superstar who once thrilled audiences with unidentifiable jumps doesn't seem to be prone to prop his feet up anytime soon.

The gypsy in this dancer's soul has taken him on an unparalleled journey, as an actor, artistic director and producer -- and with his name attached to a line of dancewear and a signature fragrance, Misha.

This grandfather's original ballet partners are long gone from the stage. So are many of his modern dance peers. He has crossed so many artistic boundaries that they simply could not keep up: an Oscar nomination for 1977's "The Turning Point," the Emmy Award-winning "Baryshnikov on Broadway," performances on Broadway in "Metamorphosis" and the recent "Beckett Shorts" (which finished Jan. 20), and Carrie's love interest on HBO's "Sex and the City."

In an art form where bodies generally mingle, he has had to go it alone by virtue of his adventuresome artistic nature.

Keep Reading...

Source: ScrippsNews

Lauren Gottlieb Teaching At Co Dance Conventions

I'm teaching in Birmingham this weekend at Co Dance conventions. Come through if your in the neighborhood!

*Check out the schedule with this link
http://www.codance.com/CoDanceConventions/codancePage.aspx?aid=618

*Registration form here:
http://www.codance.com/uploads/codance/pdfs/CDConventionReg.pdf

Future co dance cities I will be attending:

Boston, MA Feb. 2-3
Chicago, IL Feb. 9-10
Memphis, TN Feb. 23-24
Toledo, OH Mar. 1-2
Santa Clara, CA Apr. 5-6


Hope you can make it :)

xoxo
Lauren

Source: Lauren Via Myspace Bulletin

Step Up 2: The Streets- See The Trailer

Nothing in life has come easily for 16-year-old street dancer Andie West (Briana Evigan) - nothing, that is, except dance. After her mother died, she was taken in by her mother's best friend, Sarah (Sonja Sohn), but for Andie, Sarah's house is just one more place she doesn't belong; her only real family is her dance crew, the 410, and her guardian angel from the neighbourhood, Tyler Gage.

Keep Reading And Watch Trailer...

Source: Contact Music

How She Move- Worth Seeing?

After Drumline, You Got Served, Stomp The Yard, Save the Last Dance 1 and 2, Honey, Step Up, and Step Up 2 the Streets, did we really need another teen step/dance movie to add to the collection? After viewing 2008’s How She Move, the answer is definitely -- no. Directed by Ian Iqbal Rashid, How She Move debuted new actress Rutina Wesley as Raya Green, the heroine in this token coming-of-age tale set in Jamaica, Queens. Written by AnnaMarie Morais, How She Move dryly chronicles the tale of a young Jamaican immigrant on the path to finding herself, and getting out of a bad neighborhood.

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Source: Vibe

Verner Captures European Skating Title

The Czech Republic's Thomas Verner, skating to the theme of Oscar-winning epic "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" captured the European title on Thursday delivering a shattering blow to world champion Brian Joubert.

Verner, the silver medallist in 2006, went one better this time round, pushing double world champion Stephane Lambiel of Switzerland into second place with Frenchman Joubert, whose season has been dogged by injury and illness, settling for a tearful third.

Verner achieved a mark of 153.64, his best of the season, after pulling off a quadruple toe-loop and seven triples.

Already leading after the short programme, Verner finished with a competition total mark of 232.67 points.

"I am really happy to have won my first title," said the Czech skater. "It wasn't my best programme but I put all of my heart into it and the judges felt that."

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Source: Google News

Belbin And Agosto Pushing For Fifth U.S. Title

"It's the strongest we've done all season," said Belbin. "We controlled our elements, but skated with a lot of energy.

"We've made some obvious improvements since the Grand Prix Final. Our elements were good, aside from our trip."

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Source: Yahoo

Bolshoi Wins Big In London

National Dance Awards are the only professional awards in the UK, dedicated specifically to dance. They are presented by the dance section of the Critics' Circle, which brings together more than 50 dance writers.

The Bolshoi Theatre toured London in 2007, and their performances impressed both amateur and professional audiences so much, the company was listed in five out of eleven nominations!

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Source: Russia Today

A Unique Dance Perspective

Tania Pérez-Salas brings a unique perspective to dance. As a choreographer, she draws not only on the vocabulary of dance, but on the languages of art and film. And her taste in music is nothing if not eclectic, ranging from Arvo Part to Vivaldi.

The result is works that are striking not only for their movement, but for their stage imagery and sheer theatricality

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Source: STL Today

Michael Underwood Out Of Dancing on Ice

'GMTV' presenter Michael Underwood has been forced to pull out of 'Dancing on Ice' after breaking his ankle.


The television presenter was learning his new routine for the next live show when he fell awkwardly on his ankle.


According to the show's official website, Underwood was rushed to hospital by ambulance, with X-rays later showing that he had suffered a break.

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Source: RTE Entertainment

ALLHIPHOP.com Interviews Dave Scott

You may or may not know who Compton, California native Dave Scott is, but if you have seen the movies You Got Served or Stomp The Yard then you have seen his moves.



As a self-taught dancer, Dave Scott has worked his magic on the big screen and television. He has also choreographed many music videos and stage performances for the likes of Ginuwine, Tyrese, Brian McKnight, Bow Wow, Immature and B2K.



Back with the new movie Step Up 2 The Streets, Dave is steadily developing new shows for TV and more movies. We talked with him about the ins and outs of a choreographer’s career, the challenges he faced in mixing step and dance styles for Stomp The Yard and his views on Hip-Hop dance crazes .

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Source: AllHipHop.com

Johnny Weir Chasing Fourth U.S. Title

Don't let the new North Jersey address fool you. Or the new Russian coaches. Or the new Russian choreographer. Or the new Russian music. Or the new Russian training regimen.
Johnny Weir, unlike the swan he portrayed in his most famous skating routine, is incapable of transformation.

Despite relocating, redesigning Team Weir and rededicating himself in an effort to win a fourth national title this week and an Olympic gold medal in 2010, the Coatesville-born figure skater remains what he has always been - as outspoken off the ice as he is graceful on it.

On his personal website and in a telephone interview before leaving for this week's 2008 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in St. Paul, Weir displayed his diva side, a catty candor that he acknowledged often turns people off.

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Philadelhia Inquirer

Additional Performances Added For KOOZA

ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCES FOR KOOZA IN PHILADELPHIA

Nine performances added – through June 1, 2008

Philadelphia, January 22, 2008 - Due to overwhelming demand, Cirque du Soleil announced that nine additional performances, from May 28-June 1, 2008, will be added to the KOOZA show schedule in Philadelphia. KOOZA will perform for a limited engagement under the trademark blue-and-yellow Grand Chapiteau (Big Top) on the Avenue of the Arts (at Broad and Washington).



Tickets for these nine additional performances will be available beginning Sunday, January 27 at 9:00am online at cirquedusoleil.com or by calling 1 800 678-5440.



TICKET PRICES (Taxes Included)
· $50–$85 for adults;

· $35–$59.50 for children aged 2 to12 inclusive;

· $45–$76.50 for students 13 and older (Tuesday to Thursday, and Friday at 4:00 p.m. only)


PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
· Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m.
· Thursdays thru Saturdays at 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
· Sundays at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
· No performances on Mondays.
There will be no 4:00 pm performances on May 8, 9 and 15.



A VIP Tapis Rouge™ package includes one of the best seats in the house, as well as access to the VIP suite one hour before the show and during intermission. The adult package is available for $210 and the child package for $147 (aged 2 to 12 years old). Prices include taxes.



KOOZA is a return to the origins of Cirque du Soleil that combines two circus traditions – acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. The show highlights the physical demands of human performance in all its splendor and fragility, presented in a colorful mélange that emphasizes bold slapstick humor.

For more info visit Cirque du Soleil online.

Hok Konishi Talks To Scene Guy

Hok exemplified the show's potential and central premise -- taking a dancer and putting them out of their element, a premise that simultanesouly creates the fish-out-of-water scenarios that so many reality programs thrive on, while also displaying to a mainstream audience the virtuosity, artistry and sheer athleticism present in the world of dance.

As a bboy, Hok's exuberance takes precedence over his (formidable) technical skills. Not one to rely on mere tricks, Hok's strength is his performative instincts. He's not just dancing; he's entertaining, he's emoting, and he's engaging with the music, the movements and the audience. So it's not surprising that Hok is an artist in other mediums as well -- he's a talented visual artist and accomplished violinist, other forms of expression that he plans on pursuing after his arms and legs can no longer do the things he wants them to. "Dancing is something you can do only while your body functions, so I decided to take that as my career for now," he says.

Keep Reading...

SYTYCD Alum Kameron Bink, Spokemodel

Defending American Pairs Champions Compete This Week

"You have two weeks to clean up your act," he told his top team, "and you'll be fine." In his hand was a sheet of paper filled with marks and comments; it was the critique of a figure skating judge who had been invited earlier this month to view programs of the Arctic Figure Skating Club's national-bound competitors.

Johns is the primary coach of Brooke Castile and Ben Okolski, the defending American pairs champions who scored the biggest upset of last year's nationals when they came from behind and dethroned 2006 Olympians and two-time U.S. gold medalists Rena Inoue and John Baldwin.

It was a huge step forward for the Canton duo: Castile and Okolski finished eighth at the 2006 U.S. championships.

Since that breakthrough moment, Johns' task has been to ensure his team stays on top,

Keep Reading...

Source: Detroit free Press

U.S. Championships Plan Video Tribute To Bowman

Christopher Bowman was a drug addict and an alcoholic, and he may have been the most electrifying figure skater in the history of the sport.

That last part will be remembered at 7 p.m. Friday, when the U.S. Figure Skating Championships pause for a video tribute and moment of silence for Bowman, who died last week at age 40.

Keep Reading...

Source: Mercury News

Ice Dancers Tanith Belbin And Ben Agosto Take Aim At Fifth Straight National Title

With an Olympic silver medal and a bunch of U.S. titles already in their collection, Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto would seem above the boring old basics.

Not so. Belbin and Agosto spent part of the off-season working on the very same things as tots who've just taken up ice dancing: warmup exercises, stroking skills and, those tedium of tediums, the compulsory dances.

"It's nothing that's very exciting or very fun to do," Agosto said. "But it's very important and, I feel, very beneficial, and I feel it's really paid off this season."

Considering everything Belbin and Agosto have accomplished, they'd be the last candidates for a refresher course. In addition to their silver from Turin - the first Olympic medal by a U.S. dance team since 1976 - they've medalled at the last three world championships. They haven't finished lower than third at an international competition since the 2004 world championships, where they were fifth.

Keep Reading...

Source: The Canadian Press

America's Best Dance Crew Coming To MTV January 26

Former Skating Tour Rivals Likely To Merge

As creator of the Champions On Ice tour, Tom Collins remains bullish on figure skating. But the Twin Cities promoter confirmed Monday that the Champions tour is likely to combine with rival tour Stars On Ice.

Skating's once-soaring TV ratings have declined in recent years, as has attendance at events. Given the current state of the sport, Collins said, one tour makes more sense. The longtime skating promoter, who started as a performer and has spent more than 50 years in the sport, was at Xcel Energy Center on Monday for the U.S. Figure Skating Championships.

Keep Reading...

Source: Star Tribune

Dance War: Bruno Vs Carrie Ann- Take Three

If you missed last week’s episode, you caught the show tonight because ABC devoted the first 30 minutes of this week’s 90 minute episode by recapping what happened last week. Basically, we were reminded that Inaba and Tonioli teamed up after going through hours of auditions to select 14 final contestants. Those 14 contestants had an opportunity to perform for Inaba and Tonioli and 2 out of those 14 were sent home last week. After the initial cut, Inaba and Tonioli then selected 6 performers—3 males and 3 females—each for their respective teams. For the record, Team Carrie Ann is comprised of Allysa, Bradley, Chris, Elizabeth, Mariel and Qis and in Team Bruno’s court are Charity, Kelsey, Lacey, Phillip, Tony and Zack. We are once again reminded that from now on, it’s the viewers who will decide the ultimate fate of the teams and force Inaba and Tonioli to narrow the playing field by sending one of their own team member’s home each their team draws the short end of the stick in numbers of votes each week.

Keep Reading...

Source: Reality TV Magazine

Master Class With Lauren Gottlieb January 31

Luna Negra Dance Company Debuts In New York

After years traveling with Ballet Hispánico, Bronx-raised Eduardo Vilaro decided it was time to set down roots away from New York dance stages.

He landed in a master’s program at the Dance Center of Columbia College in Chicago, and when he was done, his vision for Luna Negra Dance Theater had come into full focus.

“I wanted to create a ‘first voice’ in art,” says the Cuban-born Vilaro of his 1999 epiphany, “a company that would break free from the stereotypes attributed to our culture; that danced exclusively to the work of contemporary Latino choreographers.”

Luna Negra makes its New York debut on Jan. 25, marking also Vilaro’s first professional return to the city in more than a decade.

Keep Reading...

Source: New York Daily News

It's A Friendly War Say Bruno And Carrie Ann

So there's no backstabbing or sabotaging going on?
Tonioli: No. We both want the best. We want our team to be the best possible team, so we're going to go for it. When we comment, we'll say what we think, but I'm not going to sabotage her or kick her or any of that. That would be inappropriate ... wouldn't you think?
Inaba: I hope so! I hope you're not gonna kick me! That wouldn't be right.

Well, there was pepper spray in the costumes at the Miss Puerto Rico pageant, so you never know.
Inaba: Right. Can you imagine?
Tonioli: Yeah, I could put a laxative in [her] coffee.
Inaba: [Laughs] It's a friendly competition. Bruno and I have been choreographing for most of our lives, I've been doing it for 20 years and he's been doing it for about 30 years.

Keep Reading...

Source: AOL Television

Dance War: Bruno VS Carrie Ann- People Are Talking

And not necessarily in a good way. Is anyone enjoying it?
Perhaps the most perplexing question one can ask while watching "Dance War: Bruno vs. Carrie Ann" is, "Why is this show called Dance War?" By adding the element of singing to this competition, the dancing falls to the wayside and becomes a sloppy obstacle meant to leave contestants gasping for air while singing horrible boy band songs of the mid 90s.

Keep Reading...

After the dreadful auditions and so-so performance last week, I was not too sure about Dance War: Bruno vs. Carrie Ann. Would it actually be entertaining this week or would it be just one big simmering pot of stinky mediocrity? It was, unfortunately for audiences, the latter.

Keep Reading...

Attempts at manufactured drama, straight out of the reality TV handbook, failed as well. When three dancers introduced as best friends hoped to make it through together, it was fair to guess the band of gal pals would face a tearful split. And they did. But without much of a build up, or time to grow to care about the performers, the ploy fell flat.

Keep Reading...

The third installment of Dance War: Bruno VS Carrie Ann airs tonight on ABC.

Thoughts From A SYTYCD Makeup Artist

Mia's Group Number - Ugh, this one terrified me. I came up with this concept the night before, and I had no backup plan. I knew it was way far from anything else we had ever done, so I held my breath until it was over, nearly shaking on the inside the entire time. I was finally able to breath easy when Nigel thanked me for it afterwards. Phew!!!

Mia's direction for this was that the kids were supposed to be from another world...she had this whole concept of a planet in the future that they inhabited....so my first thought was to do a futuristic version of something from the waaaaay past. I took my inspiration from the Renaissance Era, when women used to pluck their hairlines because it was thought a higher forehead was a sign of intelligence and beauty. So, for Mia's piece, John D pulled their hair back and painted the front half black.

Keep Reading...

Source: Confessions Of A Makeup Artist

Jamie Sale And David Pelletier Now Hall Of Famers

They've sat and watched athletes retire, have their banners raised and go into halls of fame.

And they never got it.

"I always watched them and wondered 'Why are you crying? You had just a great career. It's a happy thing,'" said Jamie Sale.

Yesterday, as she and David Pelletier, the world champion and Olympic gold-medal winning pairs team out of Edmonton, were inducted into the Canadian Figure Skating Hall of Fame, she got it.

"I guess you just have to be in the moment," Sale said as she and her partner/husband left the Pacific Coliseum ice after a ceremony filled with tears and laughter.

Keep Reading...

Source: Winnepeg Sun

Shimmy Exclusive- Disney On Ice: Princess Classics

Two hours of non-stop royalty. That is what Disney On Ice: Princess Classics tour is. Take a look around the arena corridor and you'll notice two things- Princess merch everywhere and little girls dressed like princesses surround you. The feel? Magical. The on-ice set design is exactly what you'd expect from any Disney production. Castles, carriages, a magic carpet that really flies... I could go on and on really. The only thing obviously missing is the beloved Flounder character from The Little Mermaid. While there are no well-known skaters in the cast it really makes no difference in the end. They are elite, clearly international competitors and the skating is first rate.

The formula for this show really seems to cater to the attention span of little ones. The first half is a series of ten minute (Give or take) stories. Shortened versions of Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs, Beauty And The Beast, Sleeping Beauty and lastly Mulan
are brought to life. After a fifteen minute intermission the skaters all return to tell a much longer version of Cinderella. This portion of the show is exceptional. The lighting during the "Cinderelli" segment has an old Live In Technicolor look to it and the quality of the skating seems to peak.

The only thing better than watching the original film might just might be seeing Cinderella crossing the ice in her horse drawn carriage. Even if you weren't thrilled about coming to the show and did it for your children, in this moment, YOU will be happy you're there.

If You Are Going To The Show

- There isn't going to be a bad seat because of the way the set is designed. The best seats are probably near center ice with the skaters' entrance to your right though.

- Bring MONEY. It's Disney and nothing is cheap. They have programs, coloring books, dolls, booths to have photos taken with characters. Even the standard arena snacks are Disney-esque. The popcorn comes in Aladdin boxes and sno cones come in Cinderella cups that will cost you ten bucks!

- Let your little one dress up like Belle if she insists. She'll blend right in and it'll add to her great memory.

- Have fun!

More Photos...

Shimmy Exclusive: Enjoying The Experience With SYTYCD Alumni Jimmy Arguello

Shimmy recently had a chance to spend a few minutes playing catch-up with Season Three SYTYCD top twenty finalist, Jimmy Arguello. Find out more about the rising talent in this exclusive chat.

Shimmy:It has been awhile since we've seen you, what are you doing now?
Jimmy:I just finished performing The Nutcracker with Class Act Performing Arts Company in Paso De Robles Ca, with Jesus. I have also joined Fauxpasdance company with Studio A. I Just got back from Houston, Texas teaching workshops, and next week I leave to Havre Montana for a couple more workshops to teach.

Shimmy: Where did you train?
Jimmy: I trained in Miami Florida with The Dance Gallery Studio for 8 years. Then I trained with Remixed Dance Center for 2 years.

Shimmy: What is one of your most memorable dance moments?
Jimmy: Being able to travel the world and embracing my gift with others.

Shimmy:What is something random we would be surprised to learn about you?
Jimmy: I love to eat and I can speak Spanish.

Shimmy:What would you like to be doing in 15 years if not dancing?
Jimmy: Married with my partner and kids.

Shimmy: What inspired you to dance?
Jimmy: A really close friend of mine.

Shimmy:What are your rituals before you dance?
Jimmy: I pray to my father in heaven, thanking him for the life he has given me.

Shimmy:What on your ipod now?
Jimmy: Alicia Keys, Damien Rice, Goapele, Brian Mcknight, Whitney Houston, Nicole Sherzinger, Dave Matthews Band, Sting and more.

Shimmy:What genre outside of your own did you want to learn on the SYTYCD?
Jimmy: The Waltz.

Shimmy: Which choreographer would you have liked to work with on the show that you didn't have a chance to?
Jimmy:Mia Micheals

Shimmy:What was your favorite dance from the show?
Jimmy:Hok and Jaime Jazz ( The Chairmans Waltz Memoirs of a Geisha)

Shimmy: What was your favorite behind the scenes moment from the show? Jimmy: Getting to know all the P.A's who became family.

Shimmy:We didn't really get to know you that much on SYTYCD so what would you like people to know about you?
Jimmy:I am going to school for psychology. I want to become a childrens psychologist.

Shimmy: What advice would you give for people trying out this year? Be yourself and dont hide it.
Jimmy: You're unique in everyway, enjoy the process and experience.

U.S. Nationals- A Dance Preview

Olympic silver medalists and 2007 world bronze medalists Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto have won the past four titles. They headline the 13-team field, along with 2007 U.S. bronze medalists Meryl Davis and Charlie White. Kim Navarro and Brent Bommentre, fourth at nationals last year, also will compete, as will 2007 U.S. junior champs Emily Samuelson and Evan Bates.

It's unlikely anyone will thwart Belbin and Agosto as they try for their fifth consecutive title. Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov, silver medalists for the past four years, withdrew from the championships last week; they have not competed since Gregory fell on a rotational lift during warmups at Skate Canada last fall. Davis and White are making strides toward their goal of maturing in their artistry this year. They were third and fourth in their two Grand Prix events, following a season in which they placed seventh at the world championships -- the second-best showing by an American team.

Keep Reading...





Source: Star Tribune

Anabelle Langlois And Cody Hay Win First Canadian Title

The long wait ended for Anabelle Langlois when she and partner Cody Hay won the title while defending champions Jessica Dube and Bryce Davison battled their way back from fifth spot to finish second.

Langlois, 26, spent over a decade pairs skating with former partner Patrice Archetto but never won a Canadian title.

"It feels amazing," said Langlois, a native of Grand-Mere, Que., who now skates with Hay out of Barrie, Ont. "We worked so hard all year."

Keep Reading...

Source: Canadian Press

Will Michelle Kwan Be Part Of NBC's U.S. National's Team?

"I'm definitely interested," Kwan said in a telephone interview.

That is a change from Kwan's attitude after she withdrew from the 2006 Olympics because of an injury.

Then, she declined an opportunity to work for NBC because she would have felt uncomfortable commenting on skaters she had been preparing to compete against. Now Kwan feels she has enough distance to be an objective observer.

"You have commentators that can be really critical and really mean, and I'm not that type of person," Kwan said. "You can say, 'Her leg was at an odd angle, and it doesn't look right,' or you can say, 'This looks ugly.' I will never be that kind of person that will criticize in a very negative way."

Keep Reading...

Source: LA Times

Pasha Kovalev and Anya Garnis At Entyce Workshop

Source: BSYTYCD

NYCDA Videos- Sabra, Jaimie and Allison

SYTYCD alumni have been crossing the country teaching and performing with NYCDA. Here's a solo with Sabra and Jaimie:



A solo with season two competitor Allison Holker:

Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir Speeding Towards Their First National Dance Title

They refused to play it safe and now Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir have moved closer to claiming their first national dance title at the BMO Canadian Figure Skating Championships.

Virtue, of London, Ont., and Moir, of Ilderton, Ont., awed the crowd and impressed the judges to score 65.29 points in the original dance Thursday night. They lead the competition with 105.33 points and can wrap up the title with the free dance Saturday.

"We just attacked every element," said Virtue, the bells on the sleeve of her dress ringing as she wiped sweat from her forehead. "We went out trying not to hold anything back. Certainly that performance felt the best so far."

Keep Reading...

Source: The Canadian Press

Shimmy Exclusive- Catching Up With Lacey Schwimmer

The last installment of FOX's So You Think You Can Dance pulled in massive ratings, who wasn't watching? The top ten finalists'rode the wave and embarked on a massive tour across the U.S. (with a quick stop in Canada). Shimmy recently had the opportunity to catch up with Top Four Finalist Lacey Schwimmer.

Shimmy: What was one of your favorite behind the scenes moments from SYTYCD?

Lacey: From the tv show it would have to be before each show we taped...we would be warming up getting finishing touches on hair and makeup and hearing fans in the audience going crazy! The energy was through the roof!
On tour I would say the first time we stepped on stage from our lift...it was the most wild and scary thing I have experienced!

Shimmy: What dance done by another couple do you wish you'd have been able to do on the show?

Lacey: I honestly loved the Vagabond routine performed by Jesus and Sarah. But if I was able to do perform one it would have to be the West Coast Swing done by Pasha and Sarah....its was rad!

Shimmy: Was there anyone on the show that you would have like to have been paired with but weren't?

Lacey: Haha! Dominic. He and I are the biggest goofballs, it would have been interesting!

Shimmy: What was your favorite smaller city to visit on tour and why?

Lacey: I loved Atlantic city, SHOPPING! Toronto was amazing even tho we were there for only a few hours!

Shimmy: What rituals if any do you have before performing?

Lacey: The usual, stretching, singing to my ipod, goofing off, and doing bad dancing with Jaimie...you would have to see it!


Shimmy: Your fans absolutely love your style because it's unique so we'll ask for them, where do you buy your clothes?

Lacey: Thats cute! Well my style is unique and I find is always changing! For the most part vintage is my favorite, Planet Funk, Urban Outiftters, Diesel, Betsy Johnson, and TARGET SWEATS.

Shimmy: What ballroom dancers (aside from family) have inspired you most and why?

Lacey: Growing up my dad coached the 16 time World Champions Donny Burns and Gaynor Fairwether. Brilliant dancers, brilliant people.

Shimmy: How is your knee healing? Is this your first major dance-related injury?

Lacey: FIRST? Noway! I have torn and strained muscles all my life, part of a dancers world if you ask me! But this is the first time I have ever had surgery. My knee is healing well, I have 4 small scars, but since I've been pushing my knee to the max, I have tendonitis in the patella. (the cap) Painful ,but working through it.

Shimmy: Have you begun training again?

Lacey: I just started retraining my center of balance ,which has gotten the best of me. Its really frustrating to know that you cant do things the way you used to. Although, my therapist is saying i am already stronger than before my injury!

Shimmy: What do you intend to do once fully healed?

Lacey: I think my competing days are over... But im scheduled to teach all over the world, judge, make appearances, and perform. I also plan on getting into acting and choreography.

Shimmy: Who is your favorite choreographer and what draws you to their work?

Lacey: Mia (Michaels), was among my favorites to watch and work with. I think anyone would agree.


Shimmy: What's on your ipod?

Lacey: Haha! What isn't on my ipod? Im really into artists nobody has heard of, but you can't deny classics like the Spice Girls, Basement Jaxx, Daft Punk, Chris Garneau, Mirah, Ima Robot, Kanye West, Justin Nozuka, Mika, Young Love...you name it more than likely have it!

Shimmy: 3 things you cannot live without?

Lacey: -Black and White anything
-Tmobile Sidekick
-Fast food

Shimmy: Tell us something that about yourself that will surprise us.

Lacey: I hold annual scavenger hunts at WALMART. ( you have a list, have to get everything on that list, and for a bonus you have to find the biggest object to sneek into someones shopping cart, I once got a tire into someones cart!)

Shimmy: If in 15 years you're no longer dancing, what might you be doing instead?

Lacey: Owning my own Chick-Fil-A?? Haha, no. I would only hope I was happy, healthy, and working with something I love dearly.

Photos by Tania Gressell

Former Canadian Champs Training The Next Generation Of Elite Skaters

It seems contradictory to listen to insiders speaking bluntly on the dire state of figure skating in Canada against the backdrop of the Canadian Olympic Committee-driven Own the Podium program and the sport's unfailing reliability in producing medallist performers.

The BMO Canadian championships opened Wednesday by recognizing honourary chairs Victor Kraatz and Shae-Lynne Bourne, the only Canadian ice dance team to win a world championship (2003).

Later in the week 2002 Olympic pairs champions JamieSalé and David Pelletier will be officially inducted into the Skate Canada hall of fame. And during Sunday's presentations, all of the newly-minted champions will receive their medals from alumni members.

Keep Reading...

Source: The Province

Shae- Lynn Bourne And Viktor Kraatz Reunite- Sort Of

Victor Kraatz gave his old partner Shae-Lynn Bourne an affectionate nudge yesterday at the Canadian figure skating championships.

After a time of stiffness between them, the 2003 world dance champions have reached a more peaceful friendship. But ironically, now that they have, they are competing against each other this week.

Kraatz is coaching Allie Hann-McCurdy of Nanaimo, B.C, and Michael Coreno of Toronto, who exceeded all expectations by finishing fourth at the Skate Canada Grand Prix in Quebec City last November.

And in the other corner, Bourne is coaching 2007 Canadian bronze medalists Kaitlyn Weaver and Andrew Poje of Waterloo, Ont.

Keep Reading...

Source: The Globe And Mail

Canadian Pair Champions Set To Defend Title

Pairs figure-skating champions Jessica Dube and Bryce Davison will return to the ice this weekend to defend their Canadian title, a challenge complicated by a horrible on-ice accident last year that left the pair with both physical and emotional wounds.

The accident footage was watched around the world as the clip of Davison's skate slashing Dube's face exploded in popularity on the video sharing website YouTube.

Keep Reading...

Source: CTV

Updates From SYTYCD 3's Hok And Lauren

Via Myspace bulletins.

Hok's Update

Quest performance!!!

hi guys, me and my troupe "Quest" will be performing and competing in a talent competition in LA called Kollaborationon feb 23rd!!! the more people we get to come support us, the more energy we will get!!!! please get tickets through the link and come support!

http://kollaboration.org/quest.php

cast:

Hokuto Konishi
Ryan Conferido
Steve terada
Victor Kim
Dominic Sandoval

Lauren's Update

Guess what's happening in 2 days......................
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MONSTERS OF HIP HOP IS IN TUCSON *ARIZONA*!!!

January 19-20, 2008
Doubletree at Reid Park

It's a GREAT faculty and its even better that its taken place in my home. Make sure to check out the website and sign up now since you only got 2 MORE DAYS!!!!!!

When you go, make sure to find Andy Funk (the director/owner/founder) and tell him I say WHATS UP! Oh and ask him how old his 6 year old son is.....he'll know what your talking about :)



go to www.monstersofhiphop.com to register


For everyone who's going....have a BLAST, work hard :)

Funeral Servies Set For Christopher Bowman

Funeral services for two-time World medalist Christopher Bowman will be held Thursday, Jan. 17. The two-time U.S. champion and two-time Olympian died Jan. 10 in Los Angeles at the age of 40. Known as “Bowman the Showman” for his flamboyant skating style, Bowman was found in a motel room in the North Hills section of Los Angeles.

Services will begin at 1 p.m. at Saint Cyril's Catholic Church, 15520 Ventura Blvd., in Encino, Calif.

Keep Reading...

Source: USFSA

Workshop With Kameron Bink

SYTYCD 4 Audition Information Updated

The Salt Lake City dates have been rescheduled. FOX has everything that you need to know about all audition cities listed HERE.

Source: FOX Broadcasting Company

Wade Robson To Choreograph San Francisco Ballet

Wade Robson, one of the Emmy-Award-winning choreographers for the mega successful SYTYCD, has been commissioned to choreograph for the San Francisco Ballet's 75th Anniversary Diamond Gala Celebration. Continue Reading...

Source: BSYTYCD

Rent's Broadway Run Ends In June

The award-winning Broadway musical "Rent" will end its 12-year-run in New York this June, according to an announcement on the production's Web site.

The musical, composed by Jonathan Larson, chronicles the struggles of a group of young artists in New York.

"Rent" won a raft of awards following its April 1996 Broadway debut, including a Pulitzer Prize for Drama, four Tony Awards and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.

Larson never lived to see the success of "Rent," dying at age 36 of an undiagnosed heart condition on the eve of its pre-Broadway opening night at the New York Theater Workshop in January 1996.

Continue Reading...

Source: Reuters

Dance War: Bruno VS. Carrie Ann...UGH!

Is it really as bad as I think? I suffered through last night a bit shocked at how much I was NOT liking what I saw. The vocals, aside from maybe 3 people, are horrendous. The dancing... wow. It's not even that the contestants were weak but the choreography is weak too. Put any kind of dance in front of me and I'm usually over the moon but this... not so much. I realize now just how spoiled we've been these past few years. Dancing With The Stars and So You Think You Can Dance have set the bar extremely high and unfortunately for me, Dance War isn't even half as good.

What do you think?

JUMP The Alternative Convention Heads To Secaucus

Nick Lazzarini, Dan Karaty, Danny Tidwell and Mandy Moore are just a few of the innovative faculty members teaching their way across the country. JUMP comes to Secaucus, NJ Jan. 18-20. If anyone out there is attending please send us your experiences, photos or videos!

More Info...

Sasha Cohen 2010 Olympian?

After years of standing alone in the spotlight, Sasha Cohen is learning how to lead an ensemble.

Smucker's Stars on Ice, the touring company led by legendary figure skater Scott Hamilton, has built this season around Cohen, the 2006 Olympic silver medalist and former U.S. champion.

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Source: Baltimore Sun

1992 Olympic Silver Medalist Paul Wylie Reflects On His Career

Interview Courtesy World Figure Skating Museum and Hall of Fame - Linda Famula

Paul Wylie, the 1992 Olympic silver medalist, will join Janet Carpenter, Todd Eldredge and Charles A. DeMore on the red carpet at the 2008 U.S. Hall of Fame induction ceremony which will be held during the 2008 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Minneapolis, Minn. (Jan. 20-27).

Wylie, a five-time U.S. national medalist, reflected on his career and shared his thoughts on his upcoming induction.

WFSM: You had both a successful career as an amateur and professional. Did you enjoy one particular phase of your career more and why?

Wylie: "I have to be honest that I enjoyed my professional career more than my amateur career, but it's not such a simple answer. My career changed overnight once I won the Olympic silver medal. That particular credential enabled me to experience the professional career I could
only have dreamed of.

Continue Reading...

Source: IFS

Christopher Bowman Update

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Coroner's officials might need to six to eight weeks to determine the cause of former figure skating star Christopher Bowman's death.

"The cause of death has been deferred pending further investigation," Los Angeles County coroner's Lt. Richard Hanna said Saturday following an autopsy.

The 40-year-old Bowman was found dead Thursday in a motel room in the North Hills area of the San Fernando Valley. Authorities have said prescription medication was found at the scene but they have not said what kind or in what quantity, and will have to wait for toxicology tests to determine whether there were drugs in his body.

Police have said there was no sign of foul play or illegal drug use.

Continue Reading...

Source: AP

Travis Wall Update

SYTYCD Season 2 finalist is quite busy juggling projects. Catch his latest interview HERE.

More new shots of Travis HERE.

Source: Travis Wall-Online

Workshop With SYTYCD's Kameron Bink

Source: IDF

Master Classes With SYTYCD Contestant Lauren Gottlieb

Contemporary Master Classes with LAUREN GOTTLIEB
from the hit TV show SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE
Final 6 and US and Canadian Tour

Classes will be held at the Radison Hotel, Rockland MA

January 31, 2008 - $25.00 per class

Ages 10-13 5:30 - 7:00pm

Ages 14+ 7:30 - 9:00pm

There will be a meet & greet after each class.

Pre-registration is required.

Please call 781-829-0390/781-829-0410 to register and info.

Sponsored by DancEssentials Etc., 333 Columbia Road, Hanover, MA 02339

More Info

Casting Announced For In The Heights

Final casting has been announced for the forthcoming Broadway production of In the Heights. The musical will begin previews on February 14 and its opening night has been set for March 9 at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, directed by Thomas Kail.

Keep Reading...

Source: Broadway.com

Christopher Bowman "The Showman" Dead At Age 40

Sad news for long time skating fans. Christopher Bowman was found dead in an LA area motel room on Thursday. Autopsy results are pending but either an accidental drug overdose or possible suicide is early speculation. Bowman was well known for his checkered past and ability to rise to the occassion when competition time rolled around.

Known as "Bowman the Showman" for his ability to light up an arena, Bowman competed in two Olympics, finishing seventh in 1988 and fourth in 1992. He also won two U.S. titles and silver and bronze medals at the world championships.

"If I had to pick the three most talented skaters of all time, I would pick Christopher as one," said Brian Boitano, the 1988 Olympic champion, after learning of Bowman's death.

Continue reading...


Source: Chicago Tribune

2008 Stars On Ice - LIVE And In Color

Unsure of whether or not SOI is worth seeing this year? Well, here is a glimpse of one of the better group performances as well as the show program.



2007-08 Smucker’s Stars on Ice Tour - LIVE and in Color



ACT I

“Simply Irresistible” Cast

Robert Palmer

“Fire” Marie-France Dubreuil &

Ima PatriceLauzon

“1000 Miles Away" Yuka Sato

Jewel

“Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” Todd Eldredge

Monty Python’s Spamalot

“Enchantment” Sasha Cohen, Patrice Lauzon,

Darlene Koldenhoven Michael Weiss, John Zimmerman

“Feeling Good” Xue Shen & Hongbo Zhao

Michael Bublé

“Hero” Michael Weiss

Enrique Iglesias

“Shine on you Crazy Diamond” Kyoko Ina & John Zimmerman

Steve Lukather

“Anytime, Anywhere” Sasha Cohen

Sarah Brightman

“Sounds of Inspiration” Ilia Kulik

Ilia Kulik

“Hard Steele is Back” Cast

Various Artists



ACT II

“Too Cool to Warm” Cast

Enoch Light

“Hit me with a Hot Note” Jennifer Robinson

Tami Tappan Damiano

“She’s Always a Woman” Marie-France Dubreuil & Patrice

Billy Joel Lauzon

“Deal with It” Ilia Kulik

Corbin Bleu

“Nessun Dorma” Marie-France Dubreuil, Patrice Lauzon,

Amici Forever Kyoko Ina, John Zimmerman,

Xue Shen, Hongbo Zhao

“Save a Horse” Michael Weiss

Big & Rich

“Adagio” Xue Shen & Hongbo Zhao

Lara Fabian

“Swing with Me” Yuka Sato

Jessica Simpson

“Nights in White Satin” Todd Eldredge

Mario Frangoulis

“Pretty Vegas” Kyoko Ina & John Zimmerman

INXS

“Imagine” Sasha Cohen

Avril Lavigne

“Make a Memory” Cast

Bon Jovi

Smucker's Stars On Ice

Now in its 22nd year, Stars On Ice will be gliding into 40 arenas across the country this spring.

Sasha Cohen's exquisite talents will complement an amazing cast of Olympic and World Champions including 1998 Olympic Champion Ilia Kulik (Russia) and 2002 Olympic Pair Champions Jamie Salé & David Pelletier (Canada), each of whom will appear in 20 cities. World Champion and six-time U.S. National Champion Todd Eldredge; World Champion and two-time Japanese National Ladies Champion Yuka Sato; two-time World Bronze medalist and three-time U.S. National Men’s Champion Michael Weiss; World Bronze medalists and three-time U.S. National Pair Champions Kyoko Ina & John Zimmerman; and six-time Canadian National Ladies Champion Jennifer Robinson will anchor the show in all 40 markets.
More details...

Tour Dates

Thu, January 31, 2008 Spokane, WA Spokane Arena
Fri, February 1, 2008 Seattle, WA KeyArena at Seattle Center
Sat, February 2, 2008 Portland, OR Rose Garden Arena
Tue, February 5, 2008 Sacramento, CA ARCO Arena
Wed, February 6, 2008 Anaheim, CA Honda Center
Sat, February 9, 2008 San Diego, CA San Diego Sports Arena
Sun, February 10, 2008 San Jose, CA HP Pavilion at San Jose
Wed, February 13, 2008 Denver, CO Pepsi Center
Fri, February 15, 2008 Bakersfield, CA Rabobank Arena
Sat, February 16, 2008 Phoenix, AZ U.S. Airways Center
Mon, February 18, 2008 Dallas, TX American Airlines Center
Thu, February 21, 2008 St. Louis, MO Scottrade Center
Fri, February 22, 2008 Kansas City, MO Sprint Center
Sat, February 23, 2008 Chicago, IL Allstate Arena
Sun, February 24, 2008 Milwaukee, WI Bradley Center
Tue, February 26, 2008 St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center
Fri, February 29, 2008 Orlando, FL Amway Arena
Sat, March 1, 2008 Tampa, FL St. Pete Times Forum
Sun, March 2, 2008 Ft. Lauderdale, FL BankAtlantic Center
Mon, March 3, 2008 Ft. Myers, FL Germain Arena
Fri, March 7, 2008 Long Island, NY Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Sat, March 8, 2008 Newark, NJ Prudential Center
Wed, March 12, 2008 Providence, RI Dunkin’ Donuts Center
Thu, March 13, 2008 Philadelphia, PA Wachovia Center
Sat, March 15, 2008 Detroit, MI The Palace of Auburn Hills
Sun, March 16, 2008 Grand Rapids, MI Van Andel Arena
Thu, March 20, 2008 Cincinnati, OH U.S. Bank Arena
Sat, March 22, 2008 Columbus, OH Value City Arena
Thu, March 27, 2008 Cleveland, OH Quicken Loans Arena
Fri, March 28, 2008 Pittsburgh, PA Mellon Arena
Sat, March 29, 2008 Wilkes-Barre, PA Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza
Sun, March 30, 2008 Albany, NY Times Union Center
Thu, April 3, 2008 Baltimore, MD 1ST Mariner Arena
Fri, April 4, 2008 Hartford, CT Hartford Civic Center
Sat, April 5, 2008 Worcester, MA DCU Center
Sun, April 6, 2008 Bridgeport, CT Arena at Harbor Yard
Thu, April 10, 2008 Hershey, PA GIANT Center
Fri, April 11, 2008 Manchester, NH Verizon Wireless Arena
Sat, April 12, 2008 Portland, ME Cumberland County Civic Center
Sat, November 29, 2008 Lake Placid, NY Olympic Center

Source: Stars On Ice