The 2nd Annual Bachata Festival was off to a successful start when dancers, instructors and performers began flying in from all over the world on Thursday, January 7, 2010.
But, just when you thought you knew all there was to know about a seemingly simple dance from the mountains of the Dominican Republic, the Reno Bachata Festival goes and blasts your concept clean out of the water. The bachata community that frequents these festivals are broadening their dance-minds every year that these festivals become more popular.
Workshops in Bachazouk, Salsa and Bachata Moderna Concepts kicked off this particular weekend. An Argentine tango lesson with Camille Yanantuono of San Diego, was a hit when bachateros gave their Cuban motion a break to give subtlety a try. Dips and grinding gave way to a tanguero’s graceful walk with ochos peppered throughout. When it comes to dance, this crowd loves to experiment, so Camille threw not only traditional tango orchestra music at them, but alternative music as well and they ate it up.
But as much as this group loves to experiment, one always needs to hone skills for the fundamentals. Camille joined forces with her teaching partner, Rodney ‘Rodchata’ Aquino to teach a ladies and men’s styling class 'mushed together' or ‘mushata’ class where dancer’s technique got a facelift.
Friday opened minds even further. Brazilian Zouk, Krav Maga Self Defense, Cumbia and a Lap dance workshop were just a few choices available along with an International Dance Showcase, in what was a very busy day with dancing into the night.
The Reno Bachata Festival’s social dance floor is the dancer’s version of the buffet line at the Silver Legacy Resort. A little of this, a little of that. A smorgasbord of bachata delights. While one couple is enjoying a generous helping of Moderna; the couple next to them is digging into a beautiful syncopation, Dominican style; and yet another is devouring a Sensual Bachata. Just like that giant buffet, you watch the floor, not quite knowing where to start. You pretty much just have to grab a partner, listen to the music and your gut, and then go with what you feel you need.
More on Saturday's events and a special report upcoming next!
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