By Mary-Jo Sanz
There was no doubt that people from the dance community awaited the popular Dance ‘N Style Christmas Party expectantly; after two years of nothingness, finally, the freedom to have a Christmas Party with family, friends, and acquaintances, was real. This time, without trepidation, and with utmost mindfulness, and care (restricting numbers by organisers), Christmas 2022 came to fruition!
Decked with flashing lights, tinsels, surrounded by Christmas colours and tables abounding with decors, the place beamed with the joy and with the spirit of Christmas. A well laid out table arrangement with place cards and programs contributed to a well-structured event. Food was in abundance, in the usual Filipino style of over catering on delicious and exquisite dishes both for mains and desserts.
The night opened with the performance by Omni Crew, a young and upcoming group, who exhibited high intensity and energy. What makes this group special is, one of its members commenced her early days of dancing with Dance ‘N Style and is none other than, Ariza Baladjay (now making her mark in and around dance circles).
The dance kicked-off with Waltz, Rumba Charmaine, Swing Waltz, Merrilyn, Tracie Leigh Waltz, Carousel, Cha Cha Cha, Jive, Rock n Roll, Salsa, Evening 3-Step, Gypsy Tap, Samba, Mambo, and Madison (with Spot Prize) with so many people eagerly dancing to the tune and remembering the cherished routines.
The second part of the program was an absolute treat as the audience watched with amazement the exceptional skills displayed by Justin, and Renee. Mesmerising was the word often used to describe their performance on the dance floor and as heard before, ‘they have magic between them.’ They will be competing in the Amateur Adult Open Latin American Division at the Australian Dance Sport Championship.
The dancing continued as the ballroom dancers immersed themselves into the enchantment of the music with Tango Terrific, Barclay Blues, Lucille Waltz, Quickstep, Twilight Walt, La Bomba, Tangoette, Balmoral Blue Bachata, Sweetheart Waltz (Alpha Waltz), Rumba One, Swing, Bachata, Progressive Chicago Swing (Spot Prize), Progressive Jive (Spot Prize), Monte Carlo (Merengue), Line Dancing and Freestyle.
Literally, everyone danced the night away and as most Dance ‘N Style functions, it was a fabulous evening!
Acknowledgements to the following:
Committee : Vicki, Trining, Albert, Allan, Aileen, Bayani, Willy, Lynne
Major Sponsors : Lynne Labagla, Nancy & Garry Coates, Paul & Wilta, Purita Binghay,
Allan & Aileen Baladjay and Norma San Diego Santos
Prize Sponsors Jopen, Vicki and Albert, Mary-Jo, Trining, Norma Patrizi, Ollie,
Manny & Mary Ann, Gloria & Maurice, Bayani, Denise, Arlene
Santa’s helpers who helped clean up after the event, it was much appreciated.
Special welcome to Flor Rossi Santos, Chianne & Mccoy
