Blackpool 2009

[Laura]

...starts in less than a month. Isn't it about time that Becca started a thread on it? :) :) ;)

[Ithink]

Yeay!!!

[etp777]

OK, this may need it's own thread, and if so, hope someone splits it off for me. :)

But, was wondering how/why people get "invited to Blackpool". Was looking at info for someone who won Nationals here in US last year, and it was mentioned that they were invited to Blackpool for 09. Second place couple said same thing. Is it just as simple as top couples from the various national comps get invited?/ Or is it something else? Also, what exactly does that mean. As I remember it being said many times here that competing at blackpool doesn't necessarily make you a great dancer, as it's an open comp. THough of course winning, or even making it through a couple rounds, means your'e a way better dancer than I'll ever be. :)

[Laura]

Blackpool is an open competition, EXCEPT in Formation Teams and Theater Arts. Anyone can go, anyone can enter. All I can think of is that maybe the organizers do something to make sure the top couples from various countries actually come, hence the "invitations."

Also, anyone who needs a UK Visa to go to Blackpool has to get an "invitation" from the organizers to submit with their visa. Western European and North American countries don't have to go through this, but if you have a passport from a place like China or Russia you might have to, so maybe that's part of what was meant? Anyway this is issued to anyone who contacts the organizers when entering the comp and asks for the invitation.

[etp777]

Ah, and was national cabaret champion and second place I was looking at. So that explains it. Thanks Laura. :)

[Laura]

Ah, and was national cabaret champion and second place I was looking at. So that explains it. Thanks Laura. :)
Yes, that is an invitational division. The organizers pick a number of couples from around the world to come to the event. I can't recall how many, it's less than a dozen.

[reb]

etp - write "you're invited" and put it an self-addressed envelope. :D

Going for the experience is a tremendous draw - so just going, and being part of it even though remaining in a first round is the primary accomplishment. For these brave, fortunate, and motivated people, moving out of the first round may be a significant accomplishment.

Those who can win (or place well) in major competitions battle it out in the remaining rounds.

More good feedback from the DF squad should be on the way which will overtake this input.

[reb]

See - Laura's on the job!

Thanks Laura.

[etp777]

Heh, I'm just going to be happy if I can invite myself to Ohio this year and nationals next year, Reb. :) Blackpool will happen eventually, but not for a few years yet.

[sambanada]

Blackpool is a must for someone. It is a great experience. I miss it terribly.

[sambagirl]

It was a blast, though we will not return this year. The way DP likes to travel, it's too expensive!

Just to be on the floor was amazing, and seeing the dramas played out among our fellow competitors -- I had to giggle.

[jwlinson]

I'd like to enter just to say I did. To make it past just the first heat would be awesome though!

[vcolfari]

I'm going for the first time to see Amateur and Pro Standard. I am grateful for any advice I can get about getting from Manchester to Blackpool, where to stay, strategies for finding tickets for seats (the standing tickets are still available), places to eat, etc. Thanks!

[Katarzyna]

There is a train from manchester to blackpool, best cheapest option

sits.. GOOD LUCK lol

places to eat.. well there is a nice italian palce in front of winter garden... (expensiver) and very very few other ones that are good. a lot of expensive bad food.. best thing to do is get a flat and cook, but thats not easy as most flats are booked a year in advance for blackpool time... but anythign is possible.

[dlgodud]

Heh, I'm just going to be happy if I can invite myself to Ohio this year and nationals next year, Reb. :) Blackpool will happen eventually, but not for a few years yet.

Hahaha...... you are being funny. I will invite myself to Ohio this year, but Blackpool? I am not sure.....:uplaugh:

[Katarzyna]

I invite myself everywhere, just dont always accept the invitation

[SDsalsaguy]

I invite myself everywhere, just dont always accept the invitation
:uplaugh:

[Ithink]

Bad food... Shocking, given that it's England (I know, I know, a stereotype, but seems to fit here). I plan to go to the grocery store and buy food that I like (bread, cheese, etc.). And fill up on included breakfast at the B&B! Seems like that would be a cheaper, tastier way to go;)

[Katarzyna]

Bad food... Shocking, given that it's England (I know, I know, a stereotype, but seems to fit here). I plan to go to the grocery store and buy food that I like (bread, cheese, etc.). And fill up on included breakfast at the B&B! Seems like that would be a cheaper, tastier way to go;)
B&B bad option.. we were advised against it by teachers.. thought same as you.. we will fill up on breakfast etc.. but wiht dance schedule first time we went, we did not get a chance to eat breakfast at B&B even once..

[Ithink]

I can't not eat breakfast. It's just not an option... I will wake up earlier than necessary just so I can eat breakfast.

[Laura]

There is a train from manchester to blackpool, best cheapest option
Yep. Take the free shuttle to the airport train station (or walk if you come in at the terminal across the street from the station), use your credit card to buy a ticket. Second class "return" (round-trip) is the cheapest, if you are going to be returning to Manchester airport. Then just sit back and relax until you get to Blackpool North. From there you can walk or take a taxi to your hotel.

[Katarzyna]

I can't not eat breakfast. It's just not an option... I will wake up earlier than necessary just so I can eat breakfast.
we thought the same lol, but maybe you will have different experiece.

[Laura]

places to eat.. well there is a nice italian palce in front of winter garden... (expensiver) and very very few other ones that are good. a lot of expensive bad food.. best thing to do is get a flat and cook, but thats not easy as most flats are booked a year in advance for blackpool time... but anythign is possible.

There's a good Thai place, but I forget where. There's also a cafe' near the Winter Gardens that has free wifi and good healthy food like omelettes and sandwiches. I can't remember the name though...sorry!!!!

Marks & Spencer, a department store, has a branch practically outside one of the doors to the Winter Gardens. They have a grocery store ("food hall") on the basement level. You can get sandwiches, fruits, veggies, snacks, beverages, and I think even pre-made meals there. I think that's probably the healthiest/cheapest option aside from going to a real grocery store like Sainsbury's.

There's a Sainsbury's a very few minutes walk from the Bisphham tram stop. Last year I stayed in a very nice flat right at the Bispham stop and did all my own cooking. Saved me a lot of money and I was able to stick to my diet and lose 5 pounds while I was at the Dance Festival! (Of course, it helped that my flat was a 45 minute walk from the Winter Gardens -- walking back and forth was pretty much the only exercise I got the entire week since all I did was sit and watch dancing all day!)

[Katarzyna]

Marks & Spencer, a department store, has a branch practically outside one of the doors to the Winter Gardens. They have a grocery store ("food hall") on the basement level. You can get sandwiches, fruits, veggies, snacks, beverages, and I think even pre-made meals there. I think that's probably the healthiest/cheapest option aside from going to a real grocery store like Sainsbury's.

There's a Sainsbury's a very few minutes walk from the Bisphham tram stop. Last year I stayed in a very nice flat right at the Bispham stop and did all my own cooking. Saved me a lot of money and I was able to stick to my diet and lose 5 pounds while I was at the Dance Festival! (Of course, it helped that my flat was a 45 minute walk from the Winter Gardens -- walking back and forth was pretty much the only exercise I got the entire week!)
Marks and Spencer is fantastic.. there is also a really good butcher near by wintergarden,

flats are the best :)

[Laura]

flats are the best :)
The first year I went to Blackpool, we stayed in a really dingy flat. It was very depressing and I was seriously considering not ever coming back to Blackpool again until a friend of mine found the flat I stayed in last year. If any of you were reading my blog from last year you'll know how delighted I was with the place.

[Katarzyna]

We have a newly renovated flat with findows facing the ocean, what more can we ask for :)

[Ithink]

One of our coaches offered us a flat in the same building he always gets a flat in as one became available recently. Well, being a planner/control freak about travel, we already made a deposit on a B&B waaay in advance that we're going to stay in with friends sooo, no flat experience for us this time:(

[Dancebug]

Loved Marks and Spencer, especailly when dollar was so weak....

[davef]

I live only 15 miles from Blackpool and if I was looking for somewhere to eat in Blackpool then I would visit the Hi-Life (A local dining club) website which originally started in the Blackpool area. The Hi-Life website contains telephone numbers, map location and reviews for each of the listed restaurants (51 around Blackpool). Their website is at http://www.hi-life.co.uk/ Click on "Search Restaurants" and then click on "Restaurants in the Fylde" alternatively http://www.hi-life.co.uk/newsite/search_results.asp?reg=fy should be the direct link.

Hope this helps and have a good time.

[moderated by latingal - thanks for posting these links, had to make them inactive due to our new member/active link standards...but the sites look very informative - our members can paste the urls to their browser lines!]

[Becca]

I love my B&B! I stay there every year and the people who run it are so nice and really can't do enough for you. As for eating, I'm a one meal a day kind of girl so food doesn't bother me so much . . . it's just as and when I have a chance, so usually 1am after the competition has ended!

So as it stands right now, I have 27 days until I go . . . does that look like I'm excited?!

[latingal]

Welcome to DF davef!

[Ithink]

There are also restaurant reviews for Blackpool on tripadvisor.com and the #1 reviewed restaurant is called Tiramisu, which already sounds good to me;)

[reb]

There are also restaurant reviews for Blackpool on tripadvisor.com and the #1 reviewed restaurant is called Tiramisu, which already sounds good to me;)

So the Italians made more of an impact on Blackpool than just dancing . . . :D

[Standarddancer]

sounds good, I like Italian food, hope that Tiramisu not far away from winter Garden and not super pricy

[ChaChaMama]

Relatively speaking, your American dollar should go further in May 2009 than it did a year ago, as the dollar is relatively stronger against the pound.

[etp777]

So stock up on your chrissane and Deirdre of London too, while you're over there. :)

[tangotime]

sounds good, I like Italian food, hope that Tiramisu not far away from winter Garden and not super pricy




Nothing is " too " far in the U.K.. the whole country would fit into Texas !!:rolleyes:

( Now if someone would help me to pick it up and move it there, it would save a lot of time and money )

[GJB]

What about the dancing? Any new couples debutting at Blackpool?

[Standarddancer]

maybe Bosco/Pitton will compete for pro standard for sure?

[Ithink]

Re the train from Manchester to Blackpool: does anyone know how often it runs and does the schedule change over the weekend (or can someone point me to the website with the schedule for the train you guys mention above)? We're supposed to take the train from Blackpool to Manchester sometime on May 30th (Saturday morning) so we can take the bus to London from Manchester and we're not sure for what time to buy bus tickets... How long does the train ride take and where in Manchester does it stop? Would it be anywhere near "Shudehill Interchange" (this is where the bus leaves from and I have no idea where that would be in relation to the train station)?

Thanks for any info!

[davef]

Re the train from Manchester to Blackpool: does anyone know how often it runs and does the schedule change over the weekend (or can someone point me to the website with the schedule for the train you guys mention above)? We're supposed to take the train from Blackpool to Manchester sometime on May 30th (Saturday morning) so we can take the bus to London from Manchester and we're not sure for what time to buy bus tickets... How long does the train ride take and where in Manchester does it stop? Would it be anywhere near "Shudehill Interchange" (this is where the bus leaves from and I have no idea where that would be in relation to the train station)?

Thanks for any info!

There is a searchable train time table on the NetworkRail (.co.uk) website.

[Laura]

Try going to nationalrail.co.uk to get your train questions answered.

I'm taking the train from Blackpool to London on Saturday morning. I seem to recall that the train goes about every half hour starting around 5:30am. The one I'm on leaves at 8:20am and gets to London (Euston) at 11:12am. I booked my ticket through nationalexpresseastcoast.com and only had to pay 37 pounds (about $70) -- and that was for first class. Second class was even less expensive. However, train ticket prices are like airline prices, there's all sorts of different fares with different restrictions, and I've seen tickets for as much as 150 pounds on the same route.

[Ithink]

Thank you. After I posted, I found that website. Maybe we'll take the same train and not bother with the train/bus route, even though it would be a bit cheaper (but take wayyy longer!). Time is money, right?

[Laura]

I love trains, and find them much more comfortable than busses -- bigger seats, you can get up and move around, and so on.

I have a 3:20pm flight from Heathrow to Chicago that Saturday afternoon. Are you heading back to the US on Saturday or spending some time in London first?

[Ithink]

We are going to be in London for 4 nights and then head home on Wednesday.

Looks like two tickets for us will be 53 pounds (unfortunately, not for the same train as you:( but for one departing an hour later) which is not bad at all. Will probably do that instead of bus.

[vcolfari]

Are any DFers interested in meeting up (drinks?) while in Blackpool? I think it would be fun. PM me!

[NonieS]

I am taking the bus from London... it is going to take over 7 hrs... but man is it gonna be cheeeaaap!! I'm spending about 40 quid for a round trip ticket.... it's awesome lol... the only train i found was going to be 70 quid each direction... i might have just looked on the wrong site, but i was like "no thank you!!" haha

[Ithink]

If by "quid" you mean pounds, Megabus tickets from London to Manchester are waaay less 40 pounds... They are like 7 pounds if you buy early enough.

Right now I am looking at train tickets for 53 pounds for two people from Blackpool to London.

[tangotime]

For those of you going by train.. would advise early booking.. the rail Co.s are thinking about abandoning advanced discount fares

[Ithink]

I am having trouble figuring out where I can pick up my tickets that I am ordering in advance. They seem to only be shipping them to addresses within the UK. The only other option is to pick up at the station but Blackpool North isn't a station where you can apparently do that, according to the website... Any advice re what options are available for someone buying tix from overseas? Where can I pick my ticket up? Laura, what option did you choose?

EDIT: never mind, got tickets! Thanks for everyone's help:) I am now even more excited for May 19th to come already!

[NonieS]

If by "quid" you mean pounds, Megabus tickets from London to Manchester are waaay less 40 pounds... They are like 7 pounds if you buy early enough.

Right now I am looking at train tickets for 53 pounds for two people from Blackpool to London.


yes quid means pounds...

anywhoo i still have to get from manchester to blackpool so i think 46 for a round trip ticket that takes me directly to blackpool w a small layover somewhere is not that bad...

i still cannot believe how LONG it's going to take!!! omg i am going to get soo bored... i guess i'll have to force myself to nap and bring a good book/ipod... lol

[Laura]

Laura, what option did you choose?
I'm going to be in Edinburgh the week before Blackpool, and in fact am taking the train from Edinburgh to Blackpool on the 21st. So, I'm picking up my Blackpool-to-London train tickets in Edinburgh.

[vcolfari]

I am having trouble figuring out where I can pick up my tickets that I am ordering in advance. They seem to only be shipping them to addresses within the UK. The only other option is to pick up at the station but Blackpool North isn't a station where you can apparently do that, according to the website... Any advice re what options are available for someone buying tix from overseas? Where can I pick my ticket up? Laura, what option did you choose?

EDIT: never mind, got tickets! Thanks for everyone's help:) I am now even more excited for May 19th to come already!

Ithink, I'm running into the same problem...how were you able to get the tickets delivered (or available for pickup)?

[Ithink]

We'll be picking up those as well as our Manchester to Blackpool train tickets at Manchester Airport when we fly in. Apparently, there is a kiosk there... I think you'll need to have the same credit card you used to purchase them with you and you're all set. I hope!

[pinkstuff]

thetrainline.com has often got good offers on train fares and buying two singles (one way) tickets can work out cheaper as well.

[Laura]

Apparently, there is a kiosk there... I think you'll need to have the same credit card you used to purchase them with you and you're all set. I hope!
Yes and also bring the printout with your confirmation number from when you ordered the tickets off the web site. I had a problem 2 years ago with the credit card thing, but because I had the confirmation email the person working in the ticket office was able to sort things out in under five minutes.

[vcolfari]

We'll be picking up those as well as our Manchester to Blackpool train tickets at Manchester Airport when we fly in. Apparently, there is a kiosk there... I think you'll need to have the same credit card you used to purchase them with you and you're all set. I hope!

This is very helpful. Thank you.

[tangotime]

thetrainline.com has often got good offers on train fares and buying two singles (one way) tickets can work out cheaper as well.


Hope its each way ! :rolleyes: ... 2 one way is for split personality people :)

[pinkstuff]

Hope its each way ! :rolleyes: ... 2 one way is for split personality people :)

Yep, what I meant :D (Alternatively I may never have noticed my split personality!!)

[moondance]

im sad:( i live 3 hrs away but none of my freinds or family want to go and i have no where 2 stay i will just hav 2 go next year! x

[dlgodud]

I really want to go and see all the wonderful dancers competing, but I can't do it this year. I am really mad :headwall: and said. :cry:

[Chris Stratton]

After a lot of indecision, looks like I'm actually going to go watch after all.

Practical question - for the guys - what should one take to wear in the venue and around the area? Obviously a range of things, but trying to figure out how much of what - dress trousers vs. jeans, button down shirts vs. polo or t-shirts, take blazer or tuxedo jacket, ?

What's typical for in the venue on a random afternoon, vs. during one of the highlight finals?

Is it reasonable to expect to find laundromat type facilities somewhere, or am I hauling 10 days worth of clothes?

[Laura]

For guys, daytime wear is what you'd see at an NDCA comp -- everything from jeans and "designer" t-shirts with leather jackets to khakis with polo shirts to dress pants with a blazer. For evening, you'll see everything from business casual to full-on tuxedo. Tails only seem to be worn by actually-competing Standard dancers.

[NonieS]

I might just wear the same dress all day as I do not feel like changing.... hey, all I'm doing is standing there watching!! LOL...

[DancingJools]

Just keep in mind that it gets considerably colder in BP than in NYC this time of year, especially if you have to walk some distance from your hotel to the venue. Take at least one warm jacket and/or a couple of sweaters.

[Laura]

But dress in layers, especially if you're upstairs in the Ballroom, because it can get very warm -- particularly on Pro Latin night!

[Casey]

Wednesday

May 20http://blst.msn.com/as/wea3/i/en-us/saw/26.gifCloudy Hi: 66° Lo: 54°
Cloudy skies. High 66F and low 54F. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: NA
25%Thursday

May 21http://blst.msn.com/as/wea3/i/en-us/saw/9.gifSprinkles Hi: 65° Lo: 53°
Cloudy with drizzle. High 65F and low 53F. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: NA
95%Friday

May 22http://blst.msn.com/as/wea3/i/en-us/saw/39.gifShowers / Clear Hi: 69° Lo: 50°
Drizzle. High 69F and low 50F. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: NA
95

-it's looking pretty good for Blackpool, so far --

[cmcaldas]

Hi All,

I am new to DF and going to Blackpool for the first time this year. Is there any practice time/space available prior to Friday the 22nd? We are arriving early Wednesday morning and would love to sneak some practice in before competing on Friday afternoon....

Thanks much!

Constance

[latingal]

Welcome to DF cmcaldas!

And good luck at Blackpool!

[DancingJools]

There is a practice room and the main ballroom itself is also available for practice (with music) in the morning. Practice times are posted in the program (which you buy when you get your tickets).
And second Laura's advice on dressing in layers. Sometimes there is a crisp wind in the early morning or at night (and it could rain).

[moondance]

just a quick question 4 people going to watch at blackpool are you going for a few days or the whole time its on ? just wondering because if i can get off work i might come but would not know wat days 2 come on ect sooo excited!:p:D thank you x

[tangotime]

(and it could rain).


rain in the U.K. ?? :rolleyes:

[Joe]

Say it ain't so!

[NonieS]

The weather has actually been glorious in london lately.... just throwin that out there...

[tangotime]

The weather has actually been glorious in london lately.... just throwin that out there...


Coastal towns seldom fare as well as inland cities...

[Casey]

I don't remember what day the practice room was set up, but it was not set up on Wednesday or Thursday last year, and maybe not on Friday. Some people might know about studios or gyms in the area.

[Casey]

Depending on whether the Atlanta or Lisbon part rules, cmcaldas, there's a practice floor at the Imperial Hotel for the North American competitors. Gary McDonald might know what day that will be set up. And the Portuguese competitors might have some place, too.

[cmcaldas]

Thanks for your replies! We dance for the USA. How can we find out more about the Imperial... location, practice times et al?

Constance

[Casey]

Maybe Larinda or someone else who knows him could have Gary McDonald check in here and give you the info. He's captain of the US team so would probably know when they will set the floor up. The Imperial is kind of far from the Winter Gardens (maybe a 25 minute walk straight up a hill), but there's a free shuttle bus that goes between the two during the whole time of the comp. But I don't know when that service starts either. The Imperial is also where a lot of the vendors are. Also, you should get to go to the Sunday night dinner if you are competing for the U.S. Check w/ Colin Hilary or Patrick Johnson about that. I've seen Gary & Patrick on Facebook, if you want to try them that way.

[Katarzyna]

The floor seems to go up I think few days after the event starts.. I think i recall it being up on sat on.. its open to practice anytime. or was last year

[dlgodud]

Oh~~~~~ It's getting excited. In less than a week, we see a magic again. Will love all of people who compete in Blackpool.

[davef]

Hi, just letting you known that there are other Free Dance Related activities going on in Blackpool during the Blackpool Dance Festival. On the Saturday 23rd May - Monday 25th May there are a series of outdoor events (across 3 locations on the promenade) each day covering Ballroom, Latin, Bollywood, Cheerdance, Line Dance, Street Dance, Ballet Workshops, Jazz Workshops, Tap, Salsa etc.

Remember that there are lots of (non dance) Holidaymakers in Blackpool so I wouldn't expect the workshops to be at too high a level.

Personally I like the sound of the gravity defying aerial Tango 7 metres above the North Pier.

Details can be found at w w w . out 2 dance . co . uk

Have a good time and don't forget your Jumper!

[Casey]

And davef's comment reminds me, finally, cmcaldas, that the Tower ballroom might be open. You can practice in there if they are having a tea dance.

[Ithink]

I saw that and was considering going salsa dancing at the salsa party on Sunday the 24th if there is time for it... Would be cool!

[davef]

The Tower Ballroom is open most days between 10am and 5pm (You can check at www . blackpooltower . co . uk - click on Attactions / Tower Ballroom and then Organ Schedule for current days / times). Unfortunately they haven't been open in the evenings since late last year / early this year. Seems to be 10am - 5pm over the festival but I'm still hoping that will be different during the summer months.

[sambanada]

I am excited to see how everyone does. Do you know which USA couples are going?

[NonieS]

pasha and daniella are already here...

[sambagirl]

Thanks for your replies! We dance for the USA. How can we find out more about the Imperial... location, practice times et al?

Constance

Information about the "Blackpool Project," which includes the practice floor for North American couples and the banquet, is here:

http://www.dancebeat.com/international.aspx?ifbm=cs5

[QPO]

Hope to be there one day

[tangotime]

Have a good time and don't forget your Jumper!


Read.. " sweater "

[Alskling]

Information about the "Blackpool Project," which includes the practice floor for North American couples and the banquet, is here:

http://www.dancebeat.com/international.aspx?ifbm=cs5

Does anyone know when the practice floor becomes available at the Imperial Hotel?

[cmcaldas]

I spoke with Colin yesterday and he told me that the practice floor should be up by Saturday at the Imperial Hotel.

Constance

[Standarddancer]

I spoke with Colin yesterday and he told me that the practice floor should be up by Saturday at the Imperial Hotel.

Constance

Sat 5/23? so couples dance RS Prior to Sat has to find somewhere else for practice? :(

[cmcaldas]

We are in the same boat - competing in senior ballroom on Friday, but arriving Wednesday morning. It was mentioned earlier on the board that the Tower's ballroom is open from 10 to 5. We don't know when the Winter Garden practice floor will be up or if we will be able to practice Friday morning on the main floor.......

Constance

[DancingMeow]

Hey all,

Just a quick question. can we still watch blackpool live from thedancingchannel as we did last year? Their website changed and I couldn't find any information about live broadcasting.
Thanks

[BallandChange]

Maybe this has been asked before, but is there anyway you can track the results on the internet and/or will there be results posted here? And when the comp is over is there a site that posts the results? Thanks and best of luck to all of those that are dancing!!

[Joe]

You can check dancesportinfo dot net, or blackpooldancefestival dot net.

[Mufanga]

Blackpool described at the minute.... ;)

http://twitter.com/danceplaza

[TAK]

How neat, Mufanga, thanks!

[Laura]

We are in the same boat - competing in senior ballroom on Friday, but arriving Wednesday morning. It was mentioned earlier on the board that the Tower's ballroom is open from 10 to 5. We don't know when the Winter Garden practice floor will be up or if we will be able to practice Friday morning on the main floor.......

Constance
Look in the Program for the Dance Festival. They give the practice times for the Empress Ballroom (where the competition actually takes place) every day. As far as Tower Ballroom goes...that's a different building down the street so I can't help you with that one.

[Laura]

And when the comp is over is there a site that posts the results?

From the program:

"Competitors' Marks

These will be available on line on the following days after the completion of the last Competition.

Monday: Senior Ballroom & Latin
Thursday: Amateur Rising Stars Latin & Ballroom; Amateur Latin & Ballroom; Under 21 Years Latin & Ballroom
Friday: Professional Rising Stars Latin & Ballroom; Professional Latin & Ballroom; Ballroom & Latin Formation

on www.blackpooldancefestival.com via a link with Estelle Grassby's web site www.scrutelle.info "

[etp777]

oooo, a new results site to check. :)

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

Hey all,

Just a quick question. can we still watch blackpool live from thedancingchannel as we did last year? Their website changed and I couldn't find any information about live broadcasting.
Thanks

It works fine for me. Do you have to pay to watch it???

[Larinda McRaven]

Taken from http://www.thedancingchannels.com/blackpool.php

Quasar Video/The Dancing Channels regret to inform its members that they have withdrawn from filming The Blackpool Dance Festival.

Following the success of the 2008 broadcasts and record DVD sales, TDC began negotiations for the 2009 Festival earlier, so as to maximise marketing opportunities and obtain sponsorship deals - which would have resulted in the live broadcasts being FREE to view.

However, despite a longstanding relationship spanning almost two decades, a workable contract with Leisure Parcs could not be reached in a timely manner, which left TDC with no option but to withdraw from the Festival.

Understandably there is much disappointment, but we have some good news!
Our on-the-scene reporter, Martin Cutler, will be bringing you a blog each day of the festival, filled with news, results and more, so be sure to check this out on www.thedancingchannels.com

TDC would like to thank its members for their support and look forward to bringing you many wonderful dance competitions in the future…watch this space!

[Larinda McRaven]

That's too bad, it was fun to watch live via computer last year!

[dlgodud]

Taken from http://www.thedancingchannels.com/blackpool.php
:shock:

[White Chacha]

That's too bad, it was fun to watch live via computer last year!

That is sad. I was planning to rig up a windows system just to watch this year :-(

[ChaChaMama]

That is too bad. Though I had trouble with the first broadcast I purchased last year, I watched other nights successfully, and felt it was worth every penny. I particularly enjoyed watching Eugene and Maria make the jive final!!!! I could feel Eugene's excitement six time zones away, and it was great to see such a deserving couple have such a great first pro outing. It was so amazingly fun to watch events unfold live.

CCP hooked me up with some great headphones he has, and the sound quality of the broadcast was amazingly clear.

Hopefully the service will be back next year.

[samina]

too bad

[DancingJools]

Am I getting this correctly? Quasar withdrew from taping the event completely, not just the live online broadcasts? This means there won't be any tapes/DVD's made of this year's event, or is there a new vendor?

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

Where can I find a schedule of when everything goes on? The only one I see is the schedule for First Round Times...

[Laura]

Today is Senior Standard and Professional Rising Star Latin. You can find out which events are which days by downloading the thing that says "Syllabus" from the web site. (Apparently "syllabus" can also mean "schedule of events".)

[Joe]

Well, you know when you take a class you get a syllabus, which tells you what you're gonna be learning.

[dlgodud]

Today is Senior Standard and Professional Rising Star Latin. You can find out which events are which days by downloading the thing that says "Syllabus" from the web site. (Apparently "syllabus" can also mean "schedule of events".)

Exactly

[dlgodud]

That is too bad. Though I had trouble with the first broadcast I purchased last year, I watched other nights successfully, and felt it was worth every penny. I particularly enjoyed watching Eugene and Maria make the jive final!!!! I could feel Eugene's excitement six time zones away, and it was great to see such a deserving couple have such a great first pro outing. It was so amazingly fun to watch events unfold live.

CCP hooked me up with some great headphones he has, and the sound quality of the broadcast was amazingly clear.

Hopefully the service will be back next year.

He and Maria looked so happy. I loved that too. The funny part was Martin's comment. " Eugene! I know you are happy. Don't go too wild." :confused:
I was thinking, " You deserve it. Do whatever you want.":p

[jivechica]

Can anybody clarify how the result is posted on dancesportinfo? The reason that I ask is because I see some RS Pro Latin couples in both "no results" and in Round 2 who I would expect to be in semi/final so I'm just wondering if Round 2 includes people who might be moving on or those who have made it to Round 2 only.

Thanks so much!

[TAK]

Can anybody clarify how the result is posted on dancesportinfo? The reason that I ask is because I see some RS Pro Latin couples in both "no results" and in Round 2 who I would expect to be in semi/final so I'm just wondering if Round 2 includes people who might be moving on or those who have made it to Round 2 only.

Thanks so much!

I don't think the later rounds have been run yet, so those are just the people who have made it through so far.

I think only RS am Latin is posted up to the second cut. Last I checked anyway.

[jivechica]

Thanks! Sorry for the double post - my computer is acting up...

[dlgodud]

I don't think the later rounds have been run yet, so those are just the people who have made it through so far.

I think only RS am Latin is posted up to the second cut. Last I checked anyway.

Yes, it found it took sometime to show all the results usually.

[star_gazer]

dancesportinfo has just posted the top 48 (Round 4) of Senior Ballroom and it includes five US couples:

Thomas Keller & Evelyn Lafferty
Xingmin & Katerina Lu
Andreas Meijer & Jody Frease
Angus Sinclair & Dara Campbell
David & Liva Wright

[sambanada]

This is great news.

[etp777]

Agreed. Congrats to all of them. And best of luck on next round!

[Laura]

dancesportinfo has just posted the top 48 (Round 4) of Senior Ballroom and it includes five US couples:

Thomas Keller & Evelyn Lafferty
Xingmin & Katerina Lu
Andreas Meijer & Jody Frease
Angus Sinclair & Dara Campbell
David & Liva Wright

Xingmin & Katerina and David & Liva made the Quarter-final.

(I left during the Quarter so who knows, they might even go further....)

[Laura]

Can anybody clarify how the result is posted on dancesportinfo? The reason that I ask is because I see some RS Pro Latin couples in both "no results" and in Round 2 who I would expect to be in semi/final so I'm just wondering if Round 2 includes people who might be moving on or those who have made it to Round 2 only.

Thanks so much!

Couples who are still together who competed last year and achieved a certain placement get a "bye" out of the first (and even the second, if they placed highly enough) rounds.

[reb]

dancesportinfo has just posted the top 48 (Round 4) of Senior Ballroom and it includes five US couples:

Thomas Keller & Evelyn Lafferty
Xingmin & Katerina Lu
Andreas Meijer & Jody Frease
Angus Sinclair & Dara Campbell
David & Liva Wright

Yeah!!! :banana:

[Laura]

Also...Winston & Lilly Chow and Robert & Lisa Renner made the cut into the 2nd round.

[TAK]

Update: David & Liva made the quarterfinal and Xingmin & Katerina are through to the semifinal!

Latin Pro RS semifinal includes:
Roman Kutskyy & Anna Kovalova
Tomasz Lewandowski & Isabella Olszewska
Yegor Novikov & Ekaterina Zakharoff
Vaidotas Skimelis & Jurga Pupelyte

Congratulations to all!! Super excited to see the results rolling in. :D

[samina]

so excited to hear about vaidas & jurga making it to semis... and our senior standard reps making it to 2nd round. wish i were there!!!!

[sambagirl]

Go Xingmin and Katerina! Such wonderful people on top of being wonderful dancers.

[rainerng]

Congrats to Yegor and Ekaterina for making the finals of RS!!!!!

[Mandicraft]

Go Xingmin and Katerina! Such wonderful people on top of being wonderful dancers.

I agree they are such great people and I just checked Dancesportinfo and it appears Xingmin & Katerina made it to the finals and took 7th! Way to go!!!! :)

[Chris Stratton]

http://www.dance-forums.com/album/thumbnail.php?src=/album/uploads/a416db04d140d03f3a5aa59be06da7d9.jpg&w=1024&h=768&zc=0&q=0

[Chris Stratton]

http://www.dance-forums.com/album/thumbnail.php?src=/album/uploads/2b0b6b7e585fc371e27f6a894a9a2c67.jpg&w=140&h=160&zc=0&q=0click for larger (http://www.dance-forums.com/album/thumbnail.php?src=/album/uploads/2b0b6b7e585fc371e27f6a894a9a2c67.jpg&w=1024&h=768&zc=0&q=0)

[Chris Stratton]

Congratulations are also due to David & Liva, for an evening of outstanding dancing into the quarterfinal!
http://www.dance-forums.com/album/thumbnail.php?src=/album/uploads/1749b25423a5cda03ee5e0db72c047e1.jpg&w=140&h=160&zc=0&q=0click for larger (http://www.dance-forums.com/album/thumbnail.php?src=/album/uploads/1749b25423a5cda03ee5e0db72c047e1.jpg&w=1024&h=768&zc=0&q=0)

[dlgodud]

Wonderful!!!!

[syncopationator]

Congrats to Yegor and Ekaterina for making the finals of RS!!!!!

just saw they finished 7th. Great job for them!

I always find it interesting how the placements of US couples at international competitions often times differ from the placements at domestic (US) comps.

[Becca]

Himawari are filming the festival this year so the DVD should be available maybe a month or so after. But I think back to just semi and final in each competition again.

So far, so awesome! My best festival yet, everything is wonderful!

I'm doing a catwalk show for Chrisanne at the Congress tomorrow, so exciting for me!

Will try to report more when I have more to tell!

[and123]

Nice photos. Have been watching David and Liva dance for years in the collegiate circuit, and they have always impressed me.

Looks like cupcake gowns are still alive and well :cool:

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

I just wanted to say how cool it is to have ppl who are actually there posts results, thoughts, share whatever. Thank you and please keep posting!!! It's exciting to read :)

[jerseydancer]

Many thanks for all the updates. we are rooting for all USA couples pros and amatures. Keep the updates going1

[Larinda McRaven]

Congrats to Tomasz & Isabella, Vaidotas & Jurga, and Roman & Anna. And Wow, Yegor and Ekaterina, big congratulations are due here, what a great jump up.

[etp777]

Repating myself (and sure I'll continue doing so), but great job and congrats to all these couples!

ANd everyone else too for that matter, you couldn't pay me to go out on floor at blackpool. :)

[Chris Stratton]

Himawari are filming the festival this year so the DVD should be available maybe a month or so after. But I think back to just semi and final in each competition again.

Yes, I was behind the video area for a while last night and they seemed to only get going for the semis, at least for those events. Too bad they were not recording the rising star ballroom 2nd qualifiers this morning - I'm pretty sure the lights were brighter last night, and that made pictures come out better than they were today.

[TAK]

I've always wondered...how does one get to compete in RS? Does it depend on the number of times one has entered that specific comp? Because Vaidas & Jurga just did their third year of Blackpool RS Latin, but they've been pro for years longer than that. Is this their last year of RS?

[gingerbread]

Nice photos. Have been watching David and Liva dance for years in the collegiate circuit, and they have always impressed me.

Looks like cupcake gowns are still alive and well :cool:

I never heard them called cupcake gowns - I like that!

[NonieS]

I never heard them called cupcake gowns - I like that!

LOL I've always thought they looked a bit like pastries... sometimes they come out looking like Jellyfish or the like.... never been a fan of that style.. can't you tell??? LOL

[Larinda McRaven]

I never heard them called cupcake gowns - I like that!

Seems to be a DF-ism

[syncopationator]

I've always wondered...how does one get to compete in RS? Does it depend on the number of times one has entered that specific comp? Because Vaidas & Jurga just did their third year of Blackpool RS Latin, but they've been pro for years longer than that. Is this their last year of RS?

Pro RS at blackpool is open to all couples who never made the open semis in all five dances or the final

[star_gazer]

I've always wondered...how does one get to compete in RS? Does it depend on the number of times one has entered that specific comp? Because Vaidas & Jurga just did their third year of Blackpool RS Latin, but they've been pro for years longer than that. Is this their last year of RS?British Professional "Rising Stars" Latin is open to anyone with the exception of those who reached the Final of the British Professional Latin Championship 2008 or who danced in all five dances in the Semi-Final (from the 2009 BP Syllabus).

repeat :)

[Laura]

Just got back from the Professional Team Match. The final scores were:

USA - 297.4
(Arunas & Katusha, Victor & Anna, Riccardo & Yulia, Eugene & Maria)

Italy - 293.5
(Mirko & Alessia, Roberto Villa & Morena Colagreco, Chirstian & Lucia Bertini, Alessandro Camerotto & Nancy Berti)

Germany - 292.9
(Sascha Karabey & Natascha Karabey, Stanislaw Massold & Christine Deck, Franco Formica & Oxana Lebedew, Evgenij Vosnyk & Oksana Nikiforova)

Great Britain - 290.0
(Jonathan & Hazel, Craig & Snezhana Draper, Alex Ivanets & Lessa Bellinger-Ivanets, Robert Rowinski & Amy Bennett)

[etp777]

Woohoo!!

[samina]

wow... go USA!

congrats to everyone...! we are so proud of you!

[GJB]

Congratulations Team USA ! I think that's two years in a row !

[Laura]

Sure is the second year in the row. Woo hoo!

I just blogged a description of the festivities, you can check it out in my blog (see my signature below for the link). I also have pictures from the Senior Standard, once I get them edited I'll stick the best ones somewhere so people can see them. (I'm new at this so none of them are great, but hey it'll give you a look at our great US couples).

[soshedances]

Awesome! Go team USA!!!

[samina]

Sure is the second year in the row. Woo hoo!

I just blogged a description of the festivities, you can check it out in my blog (see my signature below for the link). I also have pictures from the Senior Standard, once I get them edited I'll stick the best ones somewhere so people can see them. (I'm new at this so none of them are great, but hey it'll give you a look at our great US couples).

oh my heavens, i would have loved to see that tango with yulia & riccardo!

did you get photos of it?

[liz]

Usa,usa,usa!!!!!!

[GJB]

Andrei Kazlouski & Kate Kapshandy were the highest placing US couple in Under 21 Latin making the semi-finals !

[etp777]

OK, looking at the schedule on bottom right of blackpooldancefestival.net. Last two days switch form May to June. But the numbers of the dates are still matching up to May. Safe to assume eit's just a typo? I don't want to wait another whole month for exhibition results. :)

[Laura]

oh my heavens, i would have loved to see that tango with yulia & riccardo!

did you get photos of it?
Their tango was very fun, Yulia really played it up with the head snaps. I didn't take photos of the team match because it gets so crowded in the evenings I don't want to deal with it.

[reb]

Thank you all for the reports and pictures.

Congratulations!

[LucyDiamond]

Congratulations team USA! Way to go!!!!!

[Mandicraft]

oh my heavens, i would have loved to see that tango with yulia & riccardo!

did you get photos of it?

There's a pic Riccardo & Yulia here: http://www.dancesportinfo.net/Articles/6417.aspx

[NonieS]

OMG after reading Laura's description, I am really hoping there is a video somewhere....

[sambanada]

This sounds great. I would love to see it!

[samina]

There's a pic Riccardo & Yulia here: http://www.dancesportinfo.net/Articles/6417.aspx

looks like it was a spectacular show!

[SPratt74]

Thank you all for the reports and pictures.

Congratulations!

I agree! I appreciate learning about the rules and love reading about the descriptions as well. The information helps for someone that's never been there! And congrats team USA! That's awesome! ;)

[etp777]

The RS rules there seem to be rather similar to the RS rules here for NDCA, least by my understanding. I guess that makes sense though

[Becca]

I am so happy! 8 couple final in amateur Rising Star Latin - Sarunas Greblikas and Viktorija Horeva from Latvia placed 7th and Lenny Gouwerok and Laura Zmajkovicova from the Netherlands placed 8th . . . I'm so proud of them!

As for the rest, well, I was too happy and excited to pay much attention but 1st went to a Russian couple.

We have about 1,700 pictures from the festival so far, but I don't have access to them right now to post.

[rainerng]

From dancesportinfo:

"The couples entered the floor and wearing Latin costumes were Arunas and Victor with partners and wearing Ballroom costumes were Riccardo and Eugene. And, yes, not only have they switched the costumes from their usual styles, they also switched the dancing styles for this show!"

I am so confused...so the US couples switched their dancing styles and still won the team match??

[GJB]

As part of the Team Match the couples from each country do a kind of pre-comp show before the actual competition. During the competition, they danced their normal style.

[rainerng]

As part of the Team Match the couples from each country do a kind of pre-comp show before the actual competition. During the competition, they danced their normal style.

Ah, I see...and the show is for the fans, and not judged?

[SDsalsaguy]

Ah, I see...and the show is for the fans, and not judged?
No, its judged, but (a) on a point system, (b) by a different panel of judges (3 of them) than the rest of the event, and (c) the marks are never made public.

[GJB]

Thanks for the clarification.

[gingerbread]

Samantha and Janis 8th in RS Amateur Ballroom. Absolutely fantastic. Congratulations.

[Larinda McRaven]

YEAH! Janis and Samantha!

[Laura]

No, its judged, but (a) on a point system, (b) by a different panel of judges (3 of them) than the rest of the event, and (c) the marks are never made public.
Just to be clear, it's the head-to-head competition in each dance that is judged, not the fun/silly intros. Those are just for fun and entertainment. When they start with the first head-to-head dance, everyone has a score of zero :) The scores each team earns in each dance are announced, including a running total after each dance, but the individual judge's marks on the individual dancers are never made public.

The three judges can award a score between 1 and 10 for each dance. Decimal fractions are allowed. Each team consists of two Latin couples and two Standard couples. For each dance, the first Latin or Standard couple for each team goes out and dances for about half a song. Then the MC calls the second couple in that style for each team to the floor. When the score for that dance is announced it is a combined score from all three judges for both couples from each team dancing that dance.

[syncopationator]

Felipe Gonzalez and Alina Yaroshenko made the Quarterfinals in Amateur Rising Stars Latin - the highest finish for a US couple (although dancesportinfo has them listed as being from England)

[Laura]

Felipe Gonzalez and Alina Yaroshenko made the Quarterfinals in Amateur Rising Stars Latin - the highest finish for a US couple (although dancesportinfo has them listed as being from England)
Yeah, in the Blackpool program itself they are listed as "USA."

[hereKittyKitty]

Samantha and Janis 8th in RS Amateur Ballroom. Absolutely fantastic. Congratulations.

This is great. I was very happy to see an a ballroom couple from the U.S.A place this high.
I see on Dancesportinfo that Ronen and Miriam were 50 something...What happened?

[Laura]

By the way, if anyone is curious:

Daytime Adjudicators:
Loraine Baricchi
Matthew Cutler
Gayner Fairweather
Barbara Grover
Karen Hardy
Stephen Hannah
Robert Litchfield
Goran Nordin
Linda Venables
(Robert Bellinger and Gary McDonald also judged in the Amateur Rising Star on Sunday)

Evening Adjudicators:
Vicky Barr
Richard Gleave
Jukka Haapalainen (Finland)
Lynn Harman
Lindsey Hillier-Tate
Anthony Hurley
Lorna Lee
Barbara McColl
Andrew Sinkinson
David Sycamore
Kenny Welsh

Team Match Judges:
Hiro Amano (Japan)
Barbara Nagode Ambroz (Slovenia)
Ferenc Polai (Austria)

Professional Exhibition Judges:
Rufus Dustin (USA)
Paul Harris (England)
Wendy Johnson (USA)
Espen Salberg (Norway)
Carolyn Smith (Italy)

[NonieS]

Samantha and Janis 8th in RS Amateur Ballroom. Absolutely fantastic. Congratulations.


They must be so happy!!! Both are such nice people...

[gingerbread]

This is great. I was very happy to see an a ballroom couple from the U.S.A place this high.
I see on Dancesportinfo that Ronen and Miriam were 50 something...What happened?Are you sure they danced?
Becaukse I agree, that is puzzling.

[sambanada]

Felipe Gonzalez and Alina Yaroshenko made the Quarterfinals in Amateur Rising Stars Latin - the highest finish for a US couple (although dancesportinfo has them listed as being from England)

I checked this and noiticed that they are listed representing England in 3 separate competitions like Blackpool, Crystal and Imperial. This is odd, since he is from the USA and she is from Ukraine. Did they move?

[sambanada]

YEAH! Janis and Samantha!


I am a great fan of their dancing and truly thrilled for them.

[Larinda McRaven]

me too!

[syncopationator]

I checked this and noiticed that they are listed representing England in 3 separate competitions like Blackpool, Crystal and Imperial. This is odd, since he is from the USA and she is from Ukraine. Did they move?

no

Like Laura said they are listed in the program as being from the USA. Dancesportinfo doesn't always have the countries right.

[Laura]

Are you sure they danced?
Yes.

[Laura]

So Edita Daniute from Lithuania is back with a new partner (who appears to be Italian), and they won the Professional Rising Star Standard tonight. Results are on DanceSportInfo.

[davidino]

So Edita Daniute from Lithuania is back with a new partner (who appears to be Italian), and they won the Professional Rising Star Standard tonight. Results are on DanceSportInfo.

Hmmm, I'm not seeing the results yet.

[swan]

scroll down to the bottom of website. Results are in.

[Joe]

By the way, if anyone is curious:

Evening Adjudicators:
Jukka Haapalainen (Finland)

An actual non-Brit? :shock:

I see on Dancesportinfo that Ronen and Miriam were 50 something...What happened?
It's possible that their style of dancing doesn't translate as well to the British style of adjudicating as Janis and Samantha's. I recall when Jonathan Crossley won the amateur worlds with Kylie Jones he mentioned in an interview that they'd had to change their style to get the "international" judges.

[Laura]

An actual non-Brit?
Yes, they've taken in recent years to having a prior Champion who is not British on the panel. This year it's Jukka.

[Becca]

Amateur Latin:

Dorin and Roxy made the semi final . . . me, pleased? Just a bit!

Stefano and Anna have announced they are to split.

Cannot wait for tomorrow!

[GJB]

Thanks for the scoop Becca !

[syncopationator]

Stefano and Anna have announced they are to split.

was this a public announcement at Blackpool?

[xxtupikxx]

Nice scoop Becca! Hard to believe :).

Amateur latin results are posted on dancesportinfo.net. Positives results for many Russian couples. Neil Jones & Ekaterina Sokolova come out of nowhere to make the final.

My favorites, Nikolai Voronovich & Maria Nikolishina and Stanislav Nikolaev & Alexandra Nelyubina were quite a few marks short of making the semi.

[TAK]

Stefano and Anna have announced they are to split.

Wow!! Best of luck to both of them!

[Laura]

was this a public announcement at Blackpool?
Yes, made at the end of the evening's event by none other than Marcus Hilton.

Anna already has a new partner lined up. I'm sure an official announcement about that will come soon. Watch DanceSportInfo, that seems like the logical place for breaking news.

[GJB]

You mean Anna is not going to give me a tryout. I'm crushed !

[Laura]

You mean Anna is not going to give me a tryout. I'm crushed !
Ya gotta move fast in this world!

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

Ahhh, I've been waiting for this announcement! I honestly thought it was going to come sooner because I heard about it a few months ago so I was confused when I still saw them competing in April. While I'm SUPER sad, I'm SOOOOO excited for her new partnership :)

[Mufanga]

The new partner of Melnikova is Slavik.

Stefano and Anna were not suposed to compete in blackpool but stefano made her do it :)

My DI told me that the environment between stefano and anna was very awkard last night. It was the last time they danced, and now Anna will dance with slavik, and stefanno will look for a new partner.

[dlgodud]

The new partner of Melnikova is Slavik.

Stefano and Anna were not suposed to compete in blackpool but stefano made her do it :)

My DI told me that the environment between stefano and anna was very awkard last night. It was the last time they danced, and now Anna will dance with slavik, and stefanno will look for a new partner.

I think they did the right thing of competing in 2009 Blackpool. Call me Stefano if you need a partner. I will be the first in the line. Lol.....:raisebro:

[dlgodud]

Yes, made at the end of the evening's event by none other than Marcus Hilton.

Anna already has a new partner lined up. I'm sure an official announcement about that will come soon. Watch DanceSportInfo, that seems like the logical place for breaking news.

Now it's official. No more gossip on Youtube.

[dlgodud]

A little surprised by Val's result.

[TAK]

Wow...that's going to be a partnership to watch!! Best of luck to them!

[contracheck]

Call me Stefano if you need a partner. I will be the first in the line. Lol.....:raisebro:
Why don't you call him rather than waiting for him to call you? Always listen to Laura. You have to move fast and aggressively in this world these days. Don't make the mistake GJB has made with respect to Anna.

[samina]

stefano already asked me...:tongue:

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

Can someone correct me if I'm wrong - the FINALS for Pro Latin are tonight, right???

[etp777]

That's my understanding A2R. sScheduled for 12:24am there, so 6:24 here

[dlgodud]

stefano already asked me...:tongue:

I hate you Samina......lol......

[dlgodud]

Why don't you call him rather than waiting for him to call you? Always listen to Laura. You have to move fast and aggressively in this world these days. Don't make the mistake GJB has made with respect to Anna.

I'm too shy:headwall:

[Yanou]

woohoo!
quite exciting!

[Laura]

A little surprised by Val's result.
I think he was, too. He was all prepped and ready to go and standing just off the floor...and then his number wasn't called. Next year!

[Laura]

That's my understanding A2R. sScheduled for 12:24am there, so 6:24 here
Here == Central Time Zone. 7:24pm (EDT), 4:24pm (PDT).

I just got back from watching the first round. Saw some nice dancing, and some dancing by people who are just simply thrilled to be on the floor at Blackpool. Saw some nice dresses, and saw some that were, um, full of ideas. Am heading back down in a bit to watch the round of 48 and onwards. Should be a good competition tonight!

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

That's my understanding A2R. sScheduled for 12:24am there, so 6:24 here

Thanks!!!!! Man, this is such a crazy day with all the finals happening and they're all within a few hours of each other....my heart is pounding lol.

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

Here == Central Time Zone. 7:24pm (EDT), 4:24pm (PDT).

I just got back from watching the first round. Saw some nice dancing, and some dancing by people who are just simply thrilled to be on the floor at Blackpool. Saw some nice dresses, and saw some that were, um, full of ideas. Am heading back down in a bit to watch the round of 48 and onwards. Should be a good competition tonight!

Ah, gotcha! Wow, Top 48 - I'm so jealous!!!! Hope you enjoy yourself and please continue your amazing reports whenever you are free :) :) :)

[chica latina]

Tell us about fashion. What seems to be the trend for latin?

[Laura]

Tell us about fashion. What seems to be the trend for latin?
ANYTHING GOES. You like ruffles, you get ruffles. You like butt feathers, you get butt feathers. You like to look like you're dancing around in a one-piece bathing suit with a vestigial bit of skirt hanging off a hip, you get to look like you're dancing around in a one-piece bathing suit with a vestigial bit of skirt hanging off a hip.

Bright combinations of neon? Yes.
Black? Yes.
White? Yes.
Red? Of course, this is Latin.
Stoned? With tons but...
Unstoned? Yes, but in a bright color. Like red.
Caps, headwraps, and other millinery? Yes.
Hair in a long pony tail, braid, or even in a point that sticks straight out of the top of your head? Yes.

If I had to pick a "trend" I would point out that I am seeing a lot of boy-cut legs on the bodysuits. (I've also seen a few very embarrassing wedgies.) Also, I am seeing lots metallic fabrics. The more metallic and shiny the better. Even on men, who have been sporting Vegas-worthy shiny pants in black and (gag) red. (Sorry, not my thing, I think it looks a little tacky.) Many dresses are made from net covered in metallic palliettes (the big sequins the size of a quarter).

[dlgodud]

I think he was, too. He was all prepped and ready to go and standing just off the floor...and then his number wasn't called. Next year!

Definitely. I was expecting to see his name in Semi at least.But, found a little down on the result. Well, like you said "Next Year!"

[chica latina]

Thanks laura... I guess in Blackpool everything goes..

yes, my designer did boy-cut style bodysuit with my last dress... First i thought the look will cut my legs but I don't think it really does, I really like it.

[chica latina]

Definitely. I was expecting to see his name in Semi at least.But, found a little down on the result. Well, like you said "Next Year!"

How long has he been dancing with her?

[Laura]

yes, my designer did boy-cut style bodysuit with my last dress... First i thought the look will cut my legs but I don't think it really does, I really like it.
I think it works well on a lot of people, and it's less wedgie-prone!

[Laura]

How long has he been dancing with her?
Less than a year, as he did Blackpool last year with Valeryia. Who, incidentally, was here dancing with her new partner and got at least to the 48. (Check dancesportinfo to be sure.)

[star_gazer]

Laura - In standard...is there any tread away from the layers of ruffles?

[dlgodud]

Less than a year, as he did Blackpool last year with Valeryia. Who, incidentally, was here dancing with her new partner and got at least to the 48. (Check dancesportinfo to be sure.)

She did??? I did not even know that she had a new partner.

[Laura]

Laura - In standard...is there any tread away from the layers of ruffles?
There are tons of ruffles, but now they are being done in many different ways rather than just the initial horizontal layer-cake shape we saw last year. There are also some dresses without ruffles...and even some with feather boas on the bottom like 10 years ago! This is a unique time -- you can wear whatever you want and not look dated.

[contracheck]

stefano already asked me...:tongue:

Have you accepted him? If you haven't he is still a fair game.

[kathyt cupcake]

Here == Central Time Zone. 7:24pm (EDT), 4:24pm (PDT).

I just got back from watching the first round. Saw some nice dancing, and some dancing by people who are just simply thrilled to be on the floor at Blackpool. Saw some nice dresses, and saw some that were, um, full of ideas. <edit>

I think "full of ideas" is a hilarious way to put it.

I love the craziness of blackpool fashion.

[ChaChaMama]

Also, I am seeing lots metallic fabrics. The more metallic and shiny the better. Even on men, who have been sporting Vegas-worthy shiny pants in black and (gag) red. (Sorry, not my thing, I think it looks a little tacky.)

I love you, Laura.
Metallic shiny red pants on otherwise gorgeous men--no.
There really needs to be a law against that.

[TAK]

Hair...in a point that sticks straight out of the top of your head? Yes.

:shock: There are worse things, but I've been looking at photos of the pointy hair and wondering who the hell came up with that one, and why, and what they were thinking.

[TAK]

I think he was, too. He was all prepped and ready to go and standing just off the floor...and then his number wasn't called. Next year!

:( Sad. Was imagining his reaction must have been something like that. Hope it lasts with Dariya; to me they look great (based on YouTube of course).

[TAK]

Someone please tell me Riccardo & Yulia didn't show up? I can't believe they'd be out in the first round...!

[TAK]

Ditto Eugene & Maria? :shock: What is this, the US boycott?

Edit: Michal & Joanna, Sergey & Agnieszka, Franco & Oxana, and Maurizio & Melinda seem also to have missed this one. What's going on? Are they really not there, or is it DSI's mistake?

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

Someone please tell me Riccardo & Yulia didn't show up? I can't believe they'd be out in the first round...!

Where do you see the results?

Also, for the rounds, you only dance in rounds 1 and 2 if you didn't place up to a certain rank in the year before or if you have a new partnership.

[SDsalsaguy]

Someone please tell me Riccardo & Yulia didn't show up? I can't believe they'd be out in the first round...!
Ditto Eugene & Maria? :shock: What is this, the US boycott?
They'd all have exemptions from the first two rounds (based on their placements last year).

[TAK]

They'd all have exemptions from the first two rounds (based on their placements last year).

I getcha. Didn't know that was how it worked. Thanks for clearing it up! I've never tried looking at the results in real time before. (:

[TAK]

Where do you see the results?

Also, for the rounds, you only dance in rounds 1 and 2 if you didn't place up to a certain rank in the year before or if you have a new partnership.

Thanks again for informing the newbie.

The results have been going up round by round at DSI. They're obviously a little behind real time, but pretty darn good.

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

Thanks again for informing the newbie.

The results have been going up round by round at DSI. They're obviously a little behind real time, but pretty darn good.

Haha no worries! You did give me a bit of a scare there and then I looked at the clock and realized it was only 3:30 and they haven't danced yet. Getting ready for another set of finals right now so only one heart attack at once please lol :)

Yup, it is cool...can you imagine how much EVEN cooler it is to BE at Blackpool like some of our fellow DF-ers???

[TAK]

Haha no worries! You did give me a bit of a scare there and then I looked at the clock and realized it was only 3:30 and they haven't danced yet. Getting ready for another set of finals right now so only one heart attack at once please lol :)

Yup, it is cool...can you imagine how much EVEN cooler it is to BE at Blackpool like some of our fellow DF-ers???

I gave myself a bit of a scare, too, if it helps any (:

That's an interesting thing to do though...I can see why there would be no point in having previous finalists/semifinalists dance in the first rounds, since they're obviously going to make it and it might even be distracting to the judges (?), but it also seems like it would give them a bit of an advantage, since they won't be as tired! No?

P.S. Sure enough, there they all are in Round 3.

[Chris Stratton]

That's an interesting thing to do though...I can see why there would be no point in having previous finalists/semifinalists dance in the first rounds, since they're obviously going to make it and it might even be distracting to the judges (?), but it also seems like it would give them a bit of an advantage, since they won't be as tired! No?

Probably. On the other hand, if you walk around and talk to people here, there's a fair amount of belief in the concept of momentum - a new couple or new to a division rocketing up, as opposed to a couple who has been in the event already trying to hold position. It's not clear how real that is, but the idea is talked about.

[TAK]

That's really interesting...it makes sense psychologically, but is it actually borne out in the results?

[samina]

Have you accepted him? If you haven't he is still a fair game.
whaddya think? shoot, i bet even *you'd* accept him... heh ;)

[samina]

I love you, Laura. .
feelin' the same... thank you laura, i'm luvin' your reports!!! keep it comin', doll!

:D :D

[dlgodud]

Does anyone know why Matej and Iwona are not competing this year?
I have not heard about them after the last year's blackpool. Did they turn to Pro?

[TAK]

Ouch...some likely disappointment among US couples...surprised Vaidas & Jurga didn't make the top 48 ):

[Addicted2Rhinestones]

Does anyone know why Matej and Iwona are not competing this year?
I have not heard about them after the last year's blackpool. Did they turn to Pro?

I thought they were not dancing together anymore????

[TAK]

I thought they were not dancing together anymore????

According to DSI you are right...they split last June.

[dlgodud]

I thought they were not dancing together anymore????

Really???? What the :shock:?