Dear Friends, I am pleased to have Michael Figart II of Houston TX come to Mt Vernon for a Hit and Run Tango about Town and an accompanying workshop weekend with lots of social dancing.
Modeled after Lucille's NYC Hit and Run in Central Park, we will hit the local library, courthouse lobby, highschool Spanish class, the bank, etc., and a different restaurant each night. Hopefully, seeing this beautiful dance, locals will be inspired to take some lessons with Michael. I was inspired with Michael when I danced in Houston. He was so good! So easy to dance with, so much fun. I asked him to visit Mt Vernon and teach, and he wanted to come early in the week, so I said, come on, I will work your butt off. He was game to it and what fun it will be. To have a willing partner that isn't afraid to come to Tornado Alley, isn't afraid to give of his talents, says a lot for Michael's genuine love of the tango. Background of Michael in his own words: "I first came across tango in 2000, when a neighbor invited me to a milonga. I was impressed by the elegant, cosmopolitan crowd, and mesmerized by the sensuous dance. I started classes that next week, and I've been addicted ever since. My life has changed in so many ways, very much for the better, and Argentine Tango has been a very enriching and rewarding experience. I have taken classes with many, many teachers, but my defining influences have been Joan Bishop, and Susana Miller. I also seek and enjoy lessons whenever I can from Robin Thomas, Jennifer Bratt, Robert Hauk, Barbara Durr, Christopher and Caroline, Brigitte Winkler, Alex Krebs, Luciana Valle, Laura Grinbank, and others. I also still attend beginners, intermediate, and advanced classes every Tuesday, offered by the Houston Argentine Tango Society. I have devoted myself thus far to learning tango apilado, or milonguero style, which is characterized by a close embrace, intimate communication, and attention to musicality. When dancing, I place special emphasis on the comfort and security of my partner, and interpretation of the music. I travel extensively to tango festivals across the US, and enjoy meeting and dancing with many from other communities. These festivals, and the classes they offer, have greatly benefited my search for tango. I have danced in Portland, Seattle, Monterey, Denver, Mt Vernon MO, Ann Arbor, New York City, Madrid, London, and Buenos Aires." ________ Notice he puts Mt Vernon right up there with the biggies! I put Michael Figart's dancing right up there with the biggies. Classes with Michael at Murray's Vintage Venue are Friday 7:00-8:30 pm, Dance afterwards. Saturday 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, Dance at 8:00. Sunday class at 1:00, 3:00, dance 6-8 pm. 1. "Three P's; posture, pressure, and presence" 2. "Physics 101; axis, center, balance, and weight" 3. "Struttin'; variations on a walk" 4. "About Face; changes of direction" 5. "Juice It Up; sacadas, boleos, and turns" "I plan on making the entire workshop accessible to all, especially beginner types, but will definitely stretch the ability of intermediates also. I also plan on providing tools that will last after I'm gone, giving attendees much to practice on for quite some time. This workshop will be extremely progressive; please emphasize to start at the first class." Cost: $10 ea. per class, students in school-$5 each per class, dances are free with 4 paid classes. $10 each otherwise. Private lessons are $40 per hour, including floor fee. Call if you're coming, 417-471-1001, pay at the door. See you in Atlanta, Karen www.thelearningdepot.com/murrays-1
