This Week's News & Comments
May 21, 2019
Bands do feed off the energy of the crowd. Have you ever spoken in front of a group and felt the vitality (or lack of)? Same thing. I spoke with one of the singers who has performed at the Mill Valley Community Center. The singer’s attitude is “There are better places to perform.” This is solely because of lack of applause from the dancers – not the cheap tipping. Think about it.
The Starduster Orchestra plays tonight (Tuesday) at the Mill Valley Community Center. In my opinion, this THE premiere venue for couples dancing in the North Bay. We hope to see you there.
We welcome Starling Bar in the town of Sonoma, to Wayne’s Window. Per our friends, Sonoma County Dance Beat (http://socodancebeat.com) it has a stage with small dance floor. The band list looks promising. For now, there are no cover charges. Speaking of the town of Sonoma … what ever happened to the Sonoma Speakeasy? It is/was a nice little bar off the Square. If you know anything, drop me a line.
Remember WnY? A while back, they moved the West Coast Swing lessons and dance to Tuesdays at Dance Arts in San Rafael. I dropped in for both of Yenni’s Technique Class and the Beyond Basics Class. She is an excellent teacher, which means she could get through my thick skull and make my feet move in the right direction. At 8:30pm the main dance floor has Open (WC Swing) Dancing. I stayed just long enough to witness a large, focused crowd show up to dance until midnight.
Because of Memorial Day, I’ve verified the last Monday of the month dance at Temple Israel of Alameda featuring Dave’s Swingtime Big Band. If you haven’t experienced the dance venue, then you-are-overdue! For $5 you enjoy 16 professional musicians (from what I’ve heard, there is a waiting list to join the band) having a 2-hour jam session of ballroom, nightclub, and Latin.
Traffic: I recently enrolled for WC Swing lessons at Allegro. Kelly Casanova is a remarkable instructor. I don’t post here in Wayne’s Window because no 60-minute practice session is included. By the way, she teaches in the North Bay in at least three locations I know of, see:
http://www.nextgenswingdance.com/
and/or:
www.resdc.org
There was a point here about “traffic,” oh … no sooner than the San Rafael/Richmond Bridge traffic was improved with the third lane opened on the lower deck – then the upper deck needed patch-repairs. So the westbound traffic is reduced to just one lane at 9pm to 5am. Supposedly the work will be done by month’s end (Caltrans said it – not me).
CAUTION: A band has emerged titled “Sweet City,” which is not the North Bay favorite Sweet City Blues. You have been warned.
May 14, 2019
Here are almost 200 dance venues I have found for you in the North Bay Area and beyond. Please look it over and if you have any corrections or additions, I’d be delighted to hear from you. Do realize that Wayne’s Window caters to dances/practices, not lessons, though many of the dances have lessons tacked on.
Nightclub Two-Step works well with much of the Jefferson’s Starship music. Wednesday we had a Woodstock flashback at the Marin Center where Big Brother and the Holding Company and Jefferson Starship entertained us for 2 ½ hours. Surprisingly a couple of original band members are still playing. Unexpectedly, the music was not excessively loud and the scent of patchouli oil evaporated early from the aged tie-dyed clothes of graying hippies.
What could be more beautiful than a drive through the Irish green hill of West Marin and Sonoma? Gas up your car and take a tour before the hills turn golden. It is truly amazing that within 15 minutes west of jam-packed Highway 101, you find yourself often the only car on the road. Sunday afternoon we meandered along Bodega Highway to State Route 1 to the Dance Palace in Pt. Reyes (BTW: locals pronounce the town to rhyme with “rays”), to hear the 24-member strong the Albany Jazz Band playing Ballroom, Nightclub, with a touch of Latin for two hours. I was impressed with the layout of the room, acoustics, and the high-quality oak floor. The audience of three dozen saw only four couples dancing most of the afternoon (a few free-stylers joined in occasionally). It is a shame that the Dance Palace has so few dances and is an hour’s drive from Highway 101. As I understand it, The Albany Jazz Band plays but a handful of times each year. The good news is, the rest of the gigs will be in the East Bay. The bad news is most of these will be performances not dances.
May 7, 2019
This week I've discoveded nearly 200 dance venues for the next two weeks in the North Bay Area and beyond. These include Ballroom, Nightclub, Latin, and Tango (different people place tango into various categories – you decide).
Friday night a group of us descended upon the Lighthouse Bar & Grill located on the Strawberry Peninsula in Mill Valley, where the five-member SwingSet band played. Much of the music was West and East Coast Swing and Latin. The dance floor was sticky, but a sock over one shoe helped some of our ladies. We enjoyed our meals and appreciated the service staff. SwingSet is a newly formed band with some minor growing pains. When they play there again June 29, they promise to reduce the length of the songs and incorporate Tango and Waltz.
I am shocked at the dearth of dance studio ballroom dance parties in the North Bay. The regularly scheduled dances at Body Vibe (S. Rafael), Dance Arts (S. Rafael), and The Ballroom (Rht. Park) have vaporized. I hope this loss is only temporary. I do note that Dance Arts will host two dance parties in June. I phoned Arthur Murray in San Rafael to inquire about dance parties. They do have dance parties but want to sell lessons to attend. Their business model does not suit my tastes. For a typical regular weekly-night ballroom dance party that suits me, I’m looking at either Monroe Hall or Allegro.
Tonight, Tuesday, Chris and I are not dancing but rather having a Woodstock flashback by attending the concert at Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium where Jefferson Starship and Big Brother and the Holding Company are performing. Many cheap seats are still available plus a few premium seats can be had – if you act quickly. Bring ear plugs!
Come Dance Marin, one of our invaluable resources for dance information has changed its web address to: www.comedancemarin.org
I did NOT include "What's Hot" in the email newsletter, you must come here to see my recommendations (your tasted may vary).
May 1, 2019
Still traveling, this time Jamaica. Learned some Salsa while away.
Cafe Claude in San Francico web site is down.
April 16, 2019
Just got back from a long overseas' trip. Did not have time to gather news.
March 11, 2019
Expect to hear from me next around mid-April, as I’ll be out of commission for a while. I must emphasize that many of the future venues were vague when I researched them – proceed with caution and verify.
March 5, 2019
Nothing to report.
February 26, 2019
No news to report
February 19, 2019
Posted in "venues" is a list of dances over the next two weeks in the North Bay and beyond. Due to minor hand surgery I’ve been unable to dance or type, so I have been using voice recognition software and the rest I’m doing single-handedly (sorry about the pun).
Recently, we ate and danced at the Lighthouse Bar & Grill. Void Where Prohibited has a new guitarist who has quickly fit in, playing and singing songs from the ’60s & ’70s. We’ve learned to hit the (tile) dance floor with the first song, because one never knows when the alcohol gives false talent to the freestylers. A wonderful time was had by three or four couples dancing EC & WC Swing, Rumba (early Beatles’ ballads), Cha Cha (early Stones), and NC 2-Step. Our meals were well prepared; service was attentive – even with a packed house. Early into the band’s second set the freestylers packed the floor – we left.
During the band’s break, Chris mingled among the tables with the Tip Bucket. Some were generous ($10 apiece), others … not so. One customer presented a $5 dollar bill and asked for $4 back! (This band has no cover charge.)
A heartfelt “thanks” to readers submitting field reports, allowing me to give you some current news.
Monday nights Fil Lorenz Orchestra at Local Edition:
Another inside scoop for ya: Sara and I went to this recently and found out it’s not a dance band nor a dance event. In fact, they bring the band podiums down onto the already-tiny floor so there’s little room to boogie. As for the music? Think more movie score than big band swing. The band is definitely big and loud, but they play almost nothing that can be danced to. I talked to Fil about this and while he does play in dance bands, he said Monday is “the musician’s night to shine” and that the music is for “them” and not for “us” (dancers). – Chris
and another from “Anonymous”:
The Napa Ballroom Dancers met at the Native Sons Hall Feb 9th. The second floor sports a 20-foot ceiling in an early 20th Century architecture with a ‘domed’ danced floor (the wooden dance floor dips toward the edges of the room like the deck of a ship). There were 70-80 active dancers, many familiar faces. After an introductory lesson in Samba, Line Dances in that rhythm proved popular with the dancers, particularly the ones who came in Mardi Gras masks and beads. There were also impromptu Line Dances for Hustle and Cha-Cha rhythms. Available at the refreshment bar was wine and soft drinks plus free popcorn and Valentine cookies. This dance relocated temporarily because of earthquake retrofit work at the Jefferson Street Senior Center. It’ll stay in this older hall through June, returning to Jefferson Street facility in July. Admission was $15 for top notch DJ Steve Luther. Their March 9th dance, which opens at 7pm, will feature live music at 7:45pm from the J Silverheels Band, also at $15 admission.
More “field reports” from readers/dancers would be greatly appreciated, especially until I get the bandages off.
The picture is of Alameda's Elk's Lodge (PEERS') dance floor.
February 11, 2019
This week we have an extended 3-week version of Wayne’s Window. I’d appreciate it if you would view "Venues" and proofread it and submit corrections/omissions.
There seems to be confusion about the next Body Vibe dance party. Megan Smith wrote that it is on the 23rd (NOT this Saturday).
I’m dropping Blues dancing at the Beat in Berkeley due to lack of current information. A developing practice is occurring of using Facebook in lieu of a dedicated web page. So far, my experiences with this format has been disappointing, mostly due to the lack of current information.
Saturday’s Next Generation Swing Dance has moved from Allegro to Two Left Feet in in Danville. More changes at Allegro are in the works in March – stay tuned; check its website, and I’ll let you know in my next newsletter.
Looking ahead, a big Lindy event happens in Oakland Feb. 22 – 24 at Lake Merritt Dance Center. Swinging at the Savoy will have classes/workshops, practices, dances, live music, late night DJ dances. Go to: https://swinginatthesavoy.com
The “Find” command: Ctrl + F is your friend on a PC (Cmd + F on a Mac). Open my attachment. Using MS Word or similar, type Ctrl+F, a box will appear on the upper left. Enter what you are interested in, eg: venue, type of dance, or my basterdized city abbreviation. You will get a list. You do have to be exact, but case sensitive does not matter. Highlighting a word then Ctrl+F will work too. What is really cool, this command works on some web browsers! How often have you “Googled” for a subject, gone to a site, and can’t find what you want? I know I have. Try Ctrl+F! If you have trouble with this, drop me a line.
Wendy vents:
“Dancers who haven’t been to one of the Presidio-sponsored dance events should be alerted to the fact that, since it is open to the public, many millennial “clubbers” show up and spend the evening standing and bobbing in place on the crowded dance area while they slosh their drinks on the dance floor. I’ve submitted feedback to the organizers about this several years in a row … I explained at length what the problem was and the safety hazard it posed… and they appear to have no interest in monitoring or preventing it. Shame, too, since it’s a beautiful surrounding and they let it be treated that way. I stopped going because it was so aggravating.”
I fully agree with Wendy. The “sloshing dancers” are appearing everywhere, from the Presidio Yacht Club to the Tonga Room. I’ve had modest success dropping the phrase “slip and fall” to management. This is another reason why I recommend hitting the club dance floor as-soon-as-the-music-starts – you don’t know how many dances you’ll get in before the “sloshers” ascend and I sit down.
February 5, 2019
This week readers contribute:
“… I saw Bob Gutierrez multiple times in 2018. (Napa, Rossmoor a few times, and Diablo) My experience was that you never knew which musicians would be with him, so it was not always the same. Sometimes good, and sometimes so-so...”
Another reader writes: “Finley Friday (Santa Rosa) afternoons: This will be my 3rd week in a row. The floor is in excellent condition. The music varies by artist, but there is a good blend of swing, waltz, nc2step, tango, foxtrot, rumba, etc. There is enough room to negotiate the dance floor with some floor crafting. Manny Gutierrez played last Friday. He is one of the better artists. They are always short on leaders. There are some very experienced dancers there.”
“Steve Luther was DJing the music at Finley. He plays music there on the 5th Friday of the month. He played a nice variety of danceable music. There were about 50 people dancing there, with typically about 24 - 30 on the dance floor at any time. Some songs cleared the chairs and crowded the floor, but it was all very manageable. The floor is in good shape. The dancers were having fun, and there was a nice range of experience. As usual, we were short on leaders, but not overwhelming so. The age group was quite mature. I am one of the younger dancers there. Costco cookies served at the 1st break. Yummy”
Yet another reader writes: "On another subject, I followed your link to Breakaway (Oakland) yesterday and did attend the 30-min "taster class" and then danced to Hot Baked Goods. The instructors (Kathy and Greg) said that the patterns taught in the "taster class" vary from week-to-week. So, even if just taking those abbreviated classes for a month, one can assemble a significant repertoire for the dance. Admission to the 30 minute classes is included with the cost of admission to the dance. But wait, there's more! First timers receive a free pass for one DJ dance … beginning about 9. A very well attended dance, a rather young crowd, but definitely a wide range of ages. In February, their regular one-hour Level 1 classes on Tuesday evenings at 8 will cover the basics of "Swinging Charleston." There are higher level classes, too … At 9 pm, there is a DJ dance, but the last Tuesday of the month features a live band."
Back to my Window: Officially, Ashkenaz in Berkeley still has “4th Saturday Swing” – but in name only. Live music will be there, but I’m finding bands that play music other than Swing.
Saturday, we visited the Elks Lodge in Alameda for the PEERS’ dance. Sara & Swingtime played an array of music. PEERS favors Waltz, but this night Swing was featured – almost half the dances were Swing-friendly. There were vintage costumes galore. I did not count the dancers, but the floor size was substantial (see picture) and usually full. Parking in the rear is limited. We parked two blocks away – and consider ourselves lucky. More followers than leaders was the norm here too. It was rather embarrassing that the bandleader had to request applause – more than once.
I’ve got to laugh. I invited a gal in 1930s/’40s period correct British attire to a “waltz.” She was strictly in character. Her English Reel clashed with my American Smooth, leaving me to eventually acquiesce to her “style.”
January 29, 2019
Thursday we had a new discovery in the City –Pagan Idol, the best Tiki bar we’ve seen anywhere (BTW: Waikiki no longer has any Tiki bars). That night we saw Project: Pimento, our favorite local band. Lead is NOT played on a guitar, but rather a theremin (radio waves!). On the tiled small dance floor, one or two couples (four might fit) could dance easily though having to avoid revelers encroaching the space. Project: Pimento played an array of “lounge lizard” music, including Rumba, Swing, Cha-cha, West Coast Swing, and Samba. The band returns to Pagan Idol February 27. Here is the band’s website, click “Sound Samples” to hear the theremin.
Wayne’s Tip of the Week: Parking in San Francisco
We were having difficulty finding a parking garage near the lounge on Bush Street. I did notice empty parking spaces on the street, but they were marked as Commercial. We discovered many of these allow parking after hours – though you probably need a couple years of law school to interpret signs. This technique also works well on Pine Street if you want to go to Top of the Mark. Arrive just before 7pm when the Tow Away ends. You can thank me later.
I checked out the Pinole Senior Center where Manny Gutierrez Quartet plays the last Friday of the month. The female singer added a little extra pizzazz to the dance. The dance floor is the typical community center wood floor. It was definitely a senior center crowd. A substantial snack buffet was offered at 9. Beverages were available for purchase. I suggest taking a dance partner with you; leaders aren’t plentiful.
I also saw the Manny Gutierrez Quartet (without female vocalist) Sunday when I danced briefly again to his music at the B Street Ballroom, same music – different locale.
But, I was not yet finished dancing on Sunday. An invitation to a party in Rossmore reintroduced us to the Bob Gutierrez band, who we’d not seen since the old Strawberry Swingers days. The trio played a delightful array of Ballroom, Swing, and Latin. I wish that band would return to a venue in the Marin.
Hint about Rancho Nicasio: usually, if the music is on a Friday or Sunday with no cover charge, then the band is playing in the bar with no space to dance.
You may be interested in “Dance Around the World,” a $50 showcase performed at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco Sunday, February 10 at 5. Know that you will not be dancing. For more information: www.genesisdancesport.com
Look for a huge Swing event at the Lake Merritt Dance Center at the end of February – see “To Watch For” tab.
January 22, 2019
Replying to my comments about the Presidio Yacht Club an anonymous reader replies:
“That’s sad to hear about under-tipping at PYC. If there’s no cover, I always tip $20/couple AND buy something at the venue (usually 1-2 drinks or an appetizer or a dessert). Nearly every musician I know has to hustle, with many of them working several jobs to make ends meet. Anything less than this is freeloading off talent that took decades to develop … If you can’t afford the amazing live music we have here, go DJ dancing for $5 … There are no official “tip guidelines” but if you like dancing to live music, $20/couple is a worthy fee for the amount of fun we’re all having AND a great investment in the amazing live music scene in the bay area. Tipping will keep it that way.”
I too hope this wakeup call encourages all dancers need to open their wallets to maintain the many live venues we enjoy.
At the Fenix on Thursday, the Klipptones surprised us with their diversity of music that ran tunes from 1940s swing to modern-day. They even asked for requests! Though the crowd was only one-third of the house capacity, dancers took to the floor for every song. The restaurant was agreeable to moving tables, allowing more dance floor.
It is interesting about the Klipptones. Two readers have contrasting opinions:
“We first caught the Klipptones when they played the Palace Hotel in SF; they're a little different, blending music styles of older and newer songs; creative and entertaining!”
versus …
“I have found the Klipptones to be a very annoying group (at the Top of the Mark) … they played stuff that seemed to be for their own pleasure and wasn’t danceable all. Maybe one in three or four were danceable … Hard to understand this group.”
Thank you both for your input. We found the Klipptones danceable with every song, offering a variety of dance, e.g. East Coast, Swing, Rumba, Cha Cha, Peabody, West Coast Swing. (Yes, Peabody … but floor space necessary. It lies between Foxtrot & Quickstep).
January 15, 2019
Welcome to Wayne’s Window. Posted under "Venues" is a list of dances that you might consider over the next 14 days here in the North Bay and beyond. I focus on structured dances; you won’t find free-style or Hip-Hop. Also, you will have to look elsewhere for Polka, Square Dance, Flamenco, etc.
Last week the Alpha Rhythm Kings crossed the Bay, coming to play the Fenix in San Rafael. The six-piece band delighted us with vintage swing. Over a dozen accomplished couples put on their own show for us filling the tile dance floor to its maximum.
I’m told the crowd was a tad smaller than usual at the Corte Madera Community Center where the Ray Simpson Band played a variety of music. Still, the dance floor had up to 10 couples dancing Ballroom, Nightclub, and Latin.
Maria from the Presidio Yacht Club says in lieu of live music on Thursdays be sports TV will be on because of small crowds and under tipping of the bands.
South San Francisco is about the same drive time from San Rafael as is Santa Rosa. Sunday afternoon, Chris and I ventured down for five hours of the Golden Gate Smooth Dancers dinner and dance. The layout is much like other community centers: large multi-purpose wood floor (with a pole in the middle), decent acoustics, free parking, kitchen, etc. The music was DJ. $35 buys a lesson, dancing, appetizer, dinner, wine, soda pop, coffee, and dessert. As the name implies, much of the music was “smooth” (American & Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, and Tango); many variations of Latin were played, plus some Swing – heck, they even had time to fit in two Line Dances. We are looking forward to the next time we can go. Tell your friends.
January 8, 2019
Here on Wayne’s Window is a list (see "Venues") of about 100 dances each week in the North Bay and beyond. I don’t report lessons and classes, though many of the dances have them tacked on. If you know of any dances that should be included, PLEASE let me know.
I’ve been out of circulation with little to report. Recently, I asked for contributions; here are two:
Nick’s at Rockaway Beach, just 15 miles from SF, features live music every Friday and Saturday night. When there is a dearth of attractive offerings elsewhere, Nick’s is our default go-to place. Downbeat at 8 and they often play to midnight. You get a first set of good dance tempos; the second set get a bit of a mix and the never-bothered-to-learn-to-dance people start to take over with their ugly gyrations, but the third and fourth sets tend to see a thinned out dance floor and the band takes requests. No cover. Food is good meal in the dining room, or sit in the lounge, order a crab sandwich and enjoy an inexpensive dance night and dinner.
Merry Mixers at the Elk Lodge in Walnut Creek every other Friday night is a good value too. Dynamite desserts subscribe to their email list to learn which bands play. Nice floor, nice folks, easy parking and no free-style gyrators.
- Anonymous
The achoo is one of my pet peeves.
Whenever dancers tell me they can’t come dance because they are sick, I commend them for staying home and taking care of themselves, and I thank them for not exposing the entire community to whatever is going around.
No one likes to miss out. But, dance is indeed a contact sport. We must be vigilant about not infecting one another.
https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html
- S.J.
January 1, 2019
Greetings from Wayne’s Window – we made it into another year. I plan to keep plugging away to find you places to dance Ballroom, Latin, and Night Club. This edition I’m just shy of one hundred places each week in the North Bay and beyond.
My treat to you – FREE MUSIC for home use: www.tropicalglen.com
Playa Cofi Jukebox has a vast library of music. Midway is a category for Dance Music, from Bolero to Waltz (Disco is placed elsewhere). If you like it as much as me, please use the Donate button and click the ads to further support the site.
Last Friday night we ventured north to Monroe Hall’s “Big Band Dance Party.” Andrea Nelson did a marvelous job of teaching for an hour of Foxtrot to a good-sized crowd of varying skills – followed by a dance party – all for $10. The music was not as “big band” as I expected. DJ Steve Luther played also music to appease the Country contingent present. I loved Steve’s constant reminding floor etiquette of stationary dancers staying in the center to allow traveling dancers the perimeter. Thanks, Steve!
Chris and I danced in the New Year aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet to the sound of 3 O’Clock Jump. The music favored Swing, we enjoyed plenty of Foxtrot, plus Waltz, NC 2-Step, Cha Cha, Rumba, and Samba. Chris and I eked out a Peabody to one song. The place was packed – some guests wearing period costumes of the ‘40s, others in Black Tie. Three modular dance floors were laid out throughout the maintenance deck. We chose to purchase the mid-tier table seating. VIP seating is subject to being blasted by music. If you haven’t been to a dance here, do try to make it to the next one – you won’t be disappointed.
The Napa Tuesday Night Dancers have ceased until the Napa Senior Center reopens due to poor attendance at the Pelosi Building. Hopefully, they will resume with more attention to publicity, past announcements were nearly non-existent.
We say “good-bye” to San Geronimo Golf Club. This venue once hosted live music and inexpensive buffets, but it has closed with only a faint ray of hope for rebirth.
December 26, 2018
From now on, the days will get longer – as does my list of places to dance in the North Bay and beyond.
My postings are done with “due diligence,” but many of the venues are shaky on reporting, especially around holidays.
New Year’s Eve: My last count was over two dozen; yes, other parties abound, but their “dance” is different from ours.
Here is a website for NYE parties in The City: https://sfnewyearseve.com/
I didn’t find much – at least nothing our crowd would be interested in, at best an occasional Latin dance floor is tagged on almost as an afterthought. All are DJs, and you know what that means.
For two hours last Tuesday, the Starduster Orchestra keep the crowd on the floor at the Mill Valley Community Center. Sheilah Glover and Noah Griffin accompanied the band with vocals. During the band break, recorded music kept us going. The male-to-female ratio started with more leads but later the scale tipped the other direction. This venue continues to be the favorite venue in our household.
Last Wednesday, expecting a slim chance of (as we know it) dancing, but wanting to get out of the house and do something different, George’s (San Rafael) seemed to be the place to do it. After a stellar review in the Marin IJ, The Happys seemed just what the doctor ordered. The band identifies themselves as “punk-surf.” Both are favorite styles of my Chris; she knew the punk lyrics. And, yes, the dancers looked to be on pogo sticks. The band did a short set, then opened the mike to other musicians. The bar posted the start time wrong (it should be 9pm) and the room was chilly because the door stayed open which allowed the smokers’ air in, but the band’s 5 songs pleased the Wife, and we all know that is one of the secrets of life (she made me write that).
It appears Cellspace (SF) at the SOMArts Cultrual Center is inactive for all of January. Ditto the Thursday Milonga La Paz at the Veterans Building (SF), but the Sunday Milongas will continue. The Ballroom (Rohnert Park) website is out of date, but will have dance parties in January.
December 18, 2018
I’ve unearthed in the North Bay over 100 dances each week (see "Venues") for your pleasure. Many of these include lessons (usually prior). With the holidays upon us, your close scrutiny is necessary, since times and closures may happen.
Where are the ladies? In the last 7 days, I’ve been to 2 group lessons and 3 dances. 4 had more men than women, the other was exactly even … just thought I’d mention.
Last Wednesday, the Corte Madera Community Center had a good-sized crowd, despite the smooth concrete dance floor. The Ray Simpson Band played a vast array of dance music, Swing having a slight preference. Tablecloths and pitchers of water on each table was a nice touch. The treats/snacks were abundant. Remember, all this is free, though a tip jar was passed around (thanks, Steve).
Tonight is the Mill Valley Community Center Holiday Dance with the Starduster Orchestra. These other community center dances will be “dark” this month: Margaret Todd Center, B Street Ballroom (San Rafael Community Center), Pinole Senior Center, and Temple Israel.
Last weekend, Dance Arts (San Rafael) put on magnificent dance showcases at both of its Holiday Parties. Ron Montez taught both nights, a simplistic Cha Cha lesson Friday and ramped up the complexity at bit for Saturday’s Rumba lesson.
Across town Saturday night, Megan Smith did a stellar job teaching Night Club 2-Step at Body Vibe, substituting for Frank Flores (blew his knee out in a freak accident).
On my last count I’ve found 15+ NYE venues (have I missed any?) from Oakland to Pacifica to Santa Rosa to Napa and in between. Chris and I are favoring Swing dancing with or without period attire on the USS Hornet. You have lots to choose from, with varying price ranges from zero to $425 p.p. (Top of the Mark).
December 11, 2018
Double-check each venue, as schedules get a little crazy around Christmas time. In the “To Watch For” numerous listings for NYE abound. Do you have any to add to the list?
Mitch Woods and His Rocket 88’s played Fenix in San Rafael last Friday. The band specializes in Boogie Woogie; all East Coast Swing/Lindy with a few songs West Coast Swing friendly. The band started 25 minutes late, but once they got going, they were wonderful. I wish the same could be said about the restaurant, best described as spotty. The server was casual, edging toward unprofessional (oh, how I miss New Orleans’ service). A friend told me, after waiting for a draft beer order for 30 minutes and calling the server on it, he was told to “be patient.” The crab cakes appetizer was more cake than crab, yet the salmon was cooked to perfection. Yes, we will return but with lower expectations.
I’m planning to continue my listing of Peri’s in Fairfax, but the report below is less than glowing. Go for the music and drink and maybe get in a West Coast Swing or similar.
Field report: “We did make it to Peri's. The place smelled like an ashtray. The dance space was tiny, and the only place to sit near the dance floor and leave your purse, jacket, etc. was at the bar. We waited 1/2 an hour for the band to tune up and start playing, but instead they tuned up and started drinking and visiting. We never heard them play. It felt awkward to me, since I have never really been into the bar scene. I am going to say, unless you are a local at that bar, give it a pass for dancing.”
Note that Just Dance (Oakland) is having not one, but two parties this coming weekend – ditto Dance Arts (San Rafael).
December 4, 2018
Again, the Internet is plaguing me. Sunday, I emailed a Wayne’s Window supplement – it seems that no one got it, even though Comcast and Microsoft Outlook says it was successfully sent. Remember come to this website for updates between my email blasts.
New Year’s Eve isn’t that far away. I’ve found 15 venues but am always looking for more – got any ideas? Right now, we are considering the USS Hornet.
Napa Ballroom Dancers relocated to Napa Native Sons Hall, 937 Coombs Street until the Napa Senior Activity Center remodel is completed.
Chris and I have just returned from our favorite Jamaican resort. It is your typical “all inclusive” which includes dance music. We were delighted to see multiple couples doing structured dance, such as Rumba, East & West Coast Swing, Hustle, Night Club 2-Step, and Cha Cha. Such didn’t happen every night – more the exception than the rule. My advice: if you stray from the dance studio and specialty parties, brush up on your EC & WC Swing, maybe a bit of Rumba and NC 2-Step would help too – leave your Foxtrot and Waltz home.
It appears from the Terrace Room’s website, that it has no entertainment this month, though I overheard there a gig on the 13th. Ditto Le Colonial - after tonight, no postings.
Sunday, I dropped in at Suite 114 (a rec room at a Sausalito elementary school) for 2 hours of Swing dancing hosted by Jasmine. Music was from a play list, the crowd was just the right size. Though no follow-up dance has been scheduled, I’ll be looking forward to the next, when-ever-it-is.
News from readers:
City Swing Big Band looked promising at Sausalito Seahorse, but were not up to par from previous gigs. To appease listeners, Christmas music was played intermittently – not something that can easily be danced to.
The same night, at Lighthouse Bar & Grille, Tiger Lynn Band wowed the small crowd (reads, lots of room on the dance floor).
Last Tuesday, at Ashkenaz, Tom Rigney & Flambeau excelled in infusing energy into a full dance floor. He plays throughout the Bay Area – keep an eye out for him (he returns to Ashkenaz Dec. 18 and Rancho Nicasio Jan. 12).
November 13, 2018
This week's venue list is longer, as I’ll be out of town scuba diving. The next two, maybe three weeks will NOT have a Wayne’s Window newsletter. Remember you can always go to the web site for the latest updates right here.
With the Holidays coming up fast, I ask you to review my “To Watch For” list for your favorite dance. If it is not posted – drop me a line at the above email address.
Did you notice after the “Miscellaneous Ramblings” section on the "Home" tab, I’ve posted six websites that you might appreciate visiting for more dance information?
Over Thanksgiving Day, most places are closed. For those that posted “business as usual,” I would reconfirm before going out.
I got a negative field report about Novato’s Trek Winery. No dance space was available. When I visited, the slate floor had a small amount of room for dance behind the seating, near the entrance.
I’m dropping San Geronimo Golf Course, again. I spoke with the food manager – things are shaky. Only if you live in the Valley would you want to chance the Tuesday and Friday night buffet and music. I’ll let you know if anything changes.
November 6, 2018
I won’t be seeing you on the dance floor this week. A head cold has knocked my legs out from under me, but it hasn’t prevented me from discovering for you 100 dances each week here in Marin and beyond (Oakland to Napa and San Francisco to Santa Rosa).
Fog City Stomp returns to San Francisco this weekend with numerous locations, workshops and classes. If you are liking Lindy Hop and Solo Jazz, then I suggest you check out the web page.
Saturday, we were at the USS Hornet to dance to the music of the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra. Over 300 people showed up, many in black tie (75th anniversary), others in period attire. One large dance floor and two half-sized were sufficient since many came just to listen. BTW: those who bought the fancy VIP seats in front of the band were blasted away by the music’s volume (happens every time). Foxtrot was played the most (which we could do as an EC Swing), followed by Swing, and very few Latin numbers. I saw some accomplished dancers doing Balboa and West Coast Swing. The event drew couples – very few singles to be found. The evening was perfect, including the weather.
Across the Bay at the Presidio Officers Club, the Royal Society Jazz Orchestra packed them in for a festive Swing dance.
I’ve previously emailed readers about the Holly Ball in Berkeley December 8. Manny Gutierrez Quartet will be playing at this dinner/dance. The menu looks scrumptious! If you didn’t receive the flyer, contact me.
October 30, 2018
Hello Fellow Dancers,
Halloween is behind us – well most of the parties are. I’m beginning to compile venues for New Year’s Eve. If you find one, please share.
I wanted to report the Napa Tuesday Night Dance is “alive and well,” but attendance has been down. Moreover, it will most likely worsen, now moving to the same night as the Vallejo Moose. NTND has moved to Mondays and to a new location - the Pelusi Building, 2296 Streblow Drive, Napa. Attendance will continue to worsen if they don’t update the Facebook page and publicize elsewhere. November’s dance will be on the 5th and December on the 3rd. The dance is from 7pm to 9:30pm with a DJ. Did you know if you bring you parents, they get in free?
I just stumbled upon Vintage Invasion, which meets at the BFUU Hall in Berkley. Its motto: “....where the old dances invade a new generation.” It is on the fourth Saturday of every month. Lesson at 8pm, DJ music at 9pm, and live music promised at 10pm. Looking at the playlist, more than half is Waltz and its variations; the rest is Swing, WCS/Cha Cha, Polka, Foxtrot, etc. The next dance is November 23.
Last Tuesday, the Margaret Todd Center had a light turnout for the live music by People of Note. This is a great venue to practice your ballroom skills – give it a try next month on the 27th.
Friday, Marin had its tricks and treats. The trick was on Dance Arts and Body Vibe in San Rafael; both competing with Halloween dance parties that night. Dancers were torn between which to attend; many would have preferred to support both studios on different nights. The treat that Friday night went to Alma del Tango – packing the dance floor with costumed dancers.
The B Street Ballroom in San Rafael had a good turnout Sunday. About a quarter showed up in costume. I think half showed up for the snacks. Manny Gutierrez Quartet played a wide variety of music.
October 23, 2018
The large ballroom crowd at the Mill Valley Community Center danced to the Starduster Orchestra. The surprise was an additional singer, Andy Giddings, along with Sheila Glover. Andy belted out two solos beautifully, and then did a duet with Sheila. Andy didn’t sing until six years ago – says a lot about what a good vocal coach can do.
Saturday, Chris and I dropped in on Frank Flores’ Dance Party at Body Vibe Studio. Frank taught a compressed Night Club 2-Step lesson that all handled with aplomb. Afterward, he led a dance party including at least a dozen different dances (eg: Tango, Waltz, Samba, EC & WC Swing, etc.). He posted a playlist on the wall including suggested dance (some songs can be done in different dances), name of the song, artist, and length. Such is much appreciated; I hope other venues do the same.
Mt. Tam Swing is reported to have been a resounding success. The place was packed. Everyone hopes it will happen again – soon!
Sunday, Jasmine Worrell hosted a Swing lesson and practice party in Sausalito at the grammar school, aka: Studio 144. It was all Lindy, Balboa, EC & WC Swing. I found a partner to do a Peabody. My Peabody is between a Foxtrot and Quickstep – every count is a step.
How I came to dance the Peabody: Those who have danced with me know two things: #1: I can’t remember names and #2: can’t keep the beat. So my attempting a “slow” (one step in two beats) in Foxtrot seldom happens. A few years back at a studio dance party my worst nightmare happened – an instructor asked me to dance! It was a Foxtrot. Intimidated to no end, nevertheless I did my best. Shortly, she exclaimed, “Oh, so you do the Peabody!” To which I exclaimed, “Aaa, err – yes!”
Rancho Nicasio is a wonderful venue – worth the drive. Problem is that most Friday nights the music is in the bar, which has no room to dance. Saturdays, the music is in the dining room with a decent dance floor and good food (service is unpredictable).
Lindy on Sproul Facebook page says it returns Saturday afternoon at UCB. Still, confirm before going out. They are CROWDFUNDING to keep on going – Wayne’s Window sent a few bucks their way. Maybe you can too?
Halloween parties abound in just a few days (see “What’s Hot”). For costumes, Spirit stores are plentiful all over the Bay Area. But buy/rent at a local year-round store. Many are also dance supply. I like Downtown San Rafael’s D’Lynnes Danceware for the vast assortment of put-together-costumes, but also for the makeup advice. Also nearby in San Rafael is The Belrose. Do an Internet (“Google”) for a store near you – there is still time.
October 16, 2018
I’m now averaging over 100 dances (not lessons, though some incorporate lessons) in the North Bay and beyond. See "Venues" -Enjoy!
I’ve scoured the North Bay for Halloween Parties. In my opinion, the best party of the bunch is not in the North Bay, but on Alameda Island at the former Air Terminal where the USS Hornet is berthed. On the 27th inside on the Maintenance Deck, Lee Presson & the Nails (think “Spike Jones meets Big Band) will play danceable rock of the ’60s and ’70s. It’s “invite costume contest” –means if you look good enough, secret judges will “invite” you to the contest. Food and beverage will be available for purchase. Parking is free and abundant.
Folks, we have to loosen up our wallets. Maria wrote me about the Presidio Yacht Club. The bands have been playing for free Thursday nights at this hidden gem of a “dive bar” with a million-dollar view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Presidio. The tip jars have been lean. Bands are not coming back. Maria writes “… due to lack of Tip Jar participation for the band, there will be a $5 Cover! Cannot expect musicians to go home with nothing!” Personally, we tip at least $5 apiece – that’s less than a latte!
Last Thursday, I arrived at Nick’s in Pacifica in time to see the sunset behind two dozen custom/older cars from the ’50s and ’60s. Inside at the bar, The Soundwaves knocked out music from the ’50s to ’70s. Their sound was “rock” solid. This night they were a trio, other nights a quartet. The 15’ x 20’ linoleum dance floor was near barren, aside from the mother who wanted to dance with her 2-year-old and an occasional free-style couple.
Things were different at Sausalito Seahorse Friday night where Unauthorized Rolling Stones played. The place was packed beyond capacity, yet we received the best food & beverage service ever (what a change). We hit the empty brick floor immediately when the band opened with the Kinks’ “All Day and All of the Night,” which we made into a Cha Cha. Before the song was over, the crowd converted the dance space into a mosh pit. Too bad, some of the songs (cover and original) were agreeable to WC Swing and Night Club 2-Step. Amazingly, in the first set, no Rolling Stones song were played. I should note the between-set-band was horrible, “open mic night” quality, minimal applause.
The Big Easy in Petaluma served up wonderful meals as we listened to an impromptu trio Saturday, which was not the band we expected, The Hots started an hour late – just as we were leaving. The Big Easy bands do not start on time.
Again, at the Big Easy, the no-name band was belting out great songs and the tip jar stayed empty. Chris took up the jar and walked it through the room. She reminded people the $5 cover does not go wholly to the band (sometimes not at all). Some under 35 y.o. gave blank stares of “who carries cash now a days?” and stiffed the band. Most others were kind and gave.
Per Santa Rosa’s Flamingo Lounge’s website, the Tuesday night Kizomba has been dropped.
October 9, 2018
The good news is that I’ve located over 100 dances each week in the North Bay and beyond. The bad news are computers, Internet, etc. It seems Comcast won’t let me send emails with abundant hyperlinks (did you notice that clicking on the venue will take you to its website?). Worse news: the Wayne’s Window web site is broken.* The home page is a big display of gray. There is a work-around, but I won’t labor you with it. A pro and myself are working on it with hopes of repair shortly.
* You are reading this now, so the patch must have worked.
Lindy Hop fans should know about Fog City Stomp scheduled for Nov. 9 – 11.
http://fogcitystomp.com
Classes are held every day followed by live music and competitions.
Take note that Napa Ballroom Dancers will have its last dance at 1500 Jefferson on October 13. After, they move to Napa Native Sons Hall, 937 Coombs St. Its cousin, Napa Tuesday Night is silent.
The first Halloween dance of the season will be this coming Sunday in So. San Francisco at the Golden Gate Smooth Dancers dinner/dance. If you plan to go, reservations must be made by Wednesday. Many other venues are checking in with Halloween dances – see “Watch For.”
Need a costume? Here in Marin I recommend D’Lynns on Fourth Street or Belrose on Fifth Stree, both in San Rafael. D’Lynns also has a vast array of accessories and makeup (with advice).
The Wine Country Ragtime Festival happens in Sonoma this coming weekend: https://winecountryragtimefestival.com
Salsa at Space 550 in San Francisco: The Dance Fridays group has expanded to Dance Saturdays. The difference is live music on Fridays – DJ on Saturdays. Deeply discounted tickets may be obtained online.
re: 9:20 Special, though the web site says “Lindy lessons,” last week it was Charleston. Go, have a good time, but know that the lesson may not be what you expected.
Lindy on Sproul (Berkeley) website is no more, so I’ll assume so is the Saturday dance. If you have information otherwise, please let me know.
Local Edition in the City is no longer posting its bands, making it near impossible to list; further, I’m told the dance space is tiny. Until I hear otherwise, I’ve no choice to but to drop it from Wayne’s Window.
October 2, 2018
I’m back from scuba diving (I got a few dances in at the resort) and have found over 100 dances for you each week in the North Bay and beyond. Double-check my listings; any errors I’ll blame on jet lag.
In September, three Marin big bands returned from a summer break. At Mill Valley Community Center the Starduster Orchestra was refreshed and in fine form. Dancers coming from other counties speak to the quality of this venue. The admission increase to $15 did little to affect the crowd size.
As I observed at Mill Valley and other places, women often waiting to dance. If you want to dance:
· Don’t sit at the back tables.
· Tap your feet – display interest in the music.
· Stand up. At Mill Valley, congregate near the entrance.
· Ask for a dance. How many leaders are going to say “No”?
The Presidio Yacht Club’s website is blank – I’ve no way of finding out about the bands, short of driving down and looking at the circulars. If you know of any danceable bands playing there, please report.
I’m frustrated that Local Edition and Café Claude in San Francisco have been lax on updating the web page (I had to phone for info).
September 18, 2018
Wayne’s Window is averaging around 100 dances a week, located in the North Bay and beyond – enjoy. I’m off on a scuba trip; Chris will manage www.wayneswindow.com while I’m away. Always go there for the most current info and updates. No email newsletter next week.
Corte Madera Community Center was hopping last Wednesday to the sounds of the Ray Simpson Band. No one in the crowd of easily 40 complained of the concrete floor or diminished free treats. The playlist heavily favored East Coast Swing. The crowd prevented an outside lane on the perimeter for those who wanted to travel to the Foxtrot, relegating them to join in with Swing. Latin numbers were minimal, nor was any Salsa or Night Club 2-Step played. One Waltz and American Tango was performed. The tablecloth setting was inviting; plus pitchers of water were on each table with cups. Management is looking into canned music for the band’s break.
New to Wayne’s Window venues is Café Claude in San Francisco, up from Union Square – if you can’t find street parking, try Stockton-Sutter Garage. I have been told it has expanded with a dance floor, and I like the groups they have signed. If you go – let me know what you think.
I dropped by Dance Arts Friday for the Salsa lesson and dance. It was a well-attended. Fredi and Nicole pushed the talent of the dancers (which is good) with the lesson. Afterward Fredi DJ’d and danced with as many as he could.
It appears Sundown Blues in San Francisco has been discontinued, but Blues dancing can still be found in Berkeley on Wednesdays at The Beat. Also, though Mission City Swing (San Francisco) bills itself as a West Coast Swing event, I’m told the dance style is closer to Blues dancing. Both are on Wednesday nights. Shades of Blue has renamed to Shades of San Francisco (Mondays). Usually Blues dancing is featured, but select evenings may be Fusion, Hip-Hop, or West Coast Swing.
The Napa Tuesday Dance appears to have vaporized – I find no mention on the Internet and my calls have not been returned. It’s a shame since it was a rare venue that had live music on a Tuesday.
September 11, 2018
I’ve been laid up with a bad back, but with hopes to be on the dance floor mid-week, which prevented me from gathering any news. Chris hopes to be dancing soon, wrist surgery healing nicely.
September 4, 2018
Friday, Sweet City Blues played Red Brick (previously named Graffiti) on a raised stage. Most of the music was variations of Swing, with an occasional Cha Cha. The smooth concrete dance floor allowed for up to 10 couples crammed in, but was more comfortable with 4. That night’s crowd was a bit more talented than I see in similar settings. We were quite pleased with our dinners – can’t say the same about the service. Typical Friday traffic: 1 hour from San Rafael to Petaluma (25 minutes coming back).
In the rumor mill: Arthur Murray is creating a studio in West End San Rafael. Should be up and dancing by October – maybe sooner.
Fairfax’s 19 Broadway has whittled down its entertainment calendar after Sept. 9th. Do consider the 19 Broadway Goodtime Band (Sept. 9) for easy listening plus get in a few dances in a wonderful atmosphere.
Dance Arts webpage has yet been updated for Tuesday’s WnY West Coast Swing lessons and practice; only Thursday’s East Coast Swing is mentioned (no practice after).
I can’t list all the Argentine Tango in the area. My list is spotty, for full listings go to:
www.tangomango.org
A week from Wednesday, the Marin County ballroom bands return:
Sept. 12: Ray Simpson Band at Corte Madera Community Center
Sept. 18: Starduster Orchestra at Mill Valley Community Center
Sept. 30: People of Note at Margaret Todd Center
… during the Summer break, Manny Gutierrez Quartet never took a break from the B Street Ballroom, always playing the last Sunday of the month. BTW: they’ll have a special 1920s dance party on Sept. 30th
August 28, 2018
Sonoma Speakeasy has fantastic music (at least the night we showed up) with hideaway ambiance. Difficult to find, it hides in a small alley off a larger alley off Sonoma Square. Order beer and wine from the unique backlit menu – prices are competitive (and no cover charge). Inside seating reaches a tight 50 with more room on benches outside. Somehow, six musicians fit on the raised stage, including a piano, plus a singer. Dancing is encouraged on the wood floor. So what are the minuses? Even commute traffic slowed the trip from San Rafael only to 40 minutes (25 minutes on the way back). The BIG MINUS is … the dance floor space. Only two couples could dance – three if they are friendly. Starting half an hour late, The Acrosonics, played exhaustingly long sets of Jazz and Swing. Give Sonoma Speakeasy a try. Hint: We preferred the stool seating against the wall.
After six years mentioned in Wayne’s Window, I have been overdue making a visit to Just Dance. My excuse was the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge traffic debacle. With a third lane open, my trip from San Rafael to southern Oakland was 45 minutes – in commute traffic. Just Dance exceeded my expectations. High ceiling, airy, two dance studios, ample free parking, studio-quality wood floor, table seating available, and more. I arrived for the Thursday Night lesson plus dance. $8 got me in. The Cha Cha lesson quickly elevated to silver. Most were able to grasp it, while I faked a few of the steps. The main floor easily accommodated 60 experienced dancers. Like Allegro, it projected on a screen a timer that counts down the current dance and posts the next two dances. The all-encompassing variety ranged from Quickstep to Bachata to Chinese Tango - no Mambo, but everything else. Refreshments are sparse; a few dancers brought in snacks and beverages. I met a couple who drove in from Yuba City, which says to me that our shorter drive necessitates a visit.
Friday, Dance Arts invited Mark Novak to teach American Waltz. The students were of varying skill levels, yet he managed to meet everyone’s needs. What we like about Mark, besides being a darn good teacher with great sense of humor, is his constant dancing with all the women until closing.
One of our favorite bands, 7th Sons, played at the Lighthouse Bar and Grille Saturday. This means “dinner and dance” to us. Good news – the chairs have been replaced! My fish and chips were some of the best I’ve had. On the downside, table service was lacking at times and the dance floor again had sticky spots. The band has a new guitarist. I’m not sure what the reason, but they were flat during the two sets we attended. We left mid-set, as I found myself protecting my partner from collision, no longer enjoying the dance. I’m told that shortly after leaving, the freestylers took over the floor.
Sunday, B Street Ballroom (aka San Rafael Community Center) held its monthly afternoon dance party with Manny Gutierrez Quartet playing his usual. The music was a vast array: Foxtrot, NC 2-Step, Tango, Polka, Rumba, etc. The refreshments and snacks could qualify as lunch. This older crowd tended to gravitate away from the stage and crowd toward the tables, making traveling dances difficult. You get a lot for $10. Parking is free and plentiful. Next month will be a big to-do; ’20s attire will be appreciated, but not required.
The Terrace Room will soon be requiring a two-drink minimum on Thursday and Friday nights. It doesn’t have to be booze, but dancers take note. Actually, take a few extra ten-notes out of your wallet and show you appreciate the music and dance floor.
Attention tangueros, California Ballroom’s (Santa Rosa) Sunday Tea & Tango Practicá (Sept. 9) has an abundance of tangueras, to the point that men get in at half price.
August 21, 2018
Other matters have kept me away from the dance floor. I hope to return this coming week. The only field report was that Pride & Joy kicked butt at Sausalito Seahorse last Friday. It is a favorite venue: free parking, good dinners, beer & wine, band is on a raised stage, and few seem to mind the brick dance floor. Please keep those field reports coming in. Also, please keep me posted on your favorite venues.
August 14, 2018
Saturday we dropped by Sausalito Seahorse to check out the 6-piece Marinfidels. They lost points with me by a half-hour late start. They made up for it with some dynamite sounds of the ’70s rock. Regrettably, not much was offered that we could dance to, but the free-stylers were happy to fill the brick dance floor. So delighted by the music, we would have stayed, but we had another stop.
I’d never heard of Harmonia, but knew of the location as being once a legendary recording studio hidden near the Sausalito Bay Model. Nor had I seen Roberta Donnay and the Prohibition Mob Band. The 6-piece band played Swing and Blues music of the ’20s and ’30s. The wood dance floor was adequate in size for up to 10 couples. Keep an eye out for this singer and venue.
“New kids in town,” or at least new venues to Wayne’s Window. We welcome the Sonoma Speakeasy in the town of Sonoma, POST Wellness in Petaluma, and Kelly Cassanova moved the West Coast Swing dance and lessons from Flamingo Lounge to Ellington Hall (Santa Rosa).
Welcome back San Geronimo Golf Club and Coppola Winery up in Geyserville. Remember Rossi’s 1906 in Sonoma? It is now The Reel Fish Shop and Grill –with live music.
August 7, 2018
Comcast and Microsoft continue to torpedo my email newsletter. I keep hoping a solution can be found shortly.
The latest news, is Allegro is building a new place in Richmond. I just forwarded you the press release. No opening date announced, I gather it will be quite a while.
One of the friends to Wayne’s Window reports a wonderful time at Nick’s Rockaway in Pacifica, that is until the band’s second set and all the freestylers were lubricated up enough to make fools of themselves as they took over the dance floor. Folks, I remind you, that unless it is a dance studio event, you must hit the floor as soon as the music starts before “the others,” drink in hand, take to the floor.
As much as we poke fun at “the others,” I must give the devil his due. Typically we hold back on our adult beverages to dance – they don’t, and it is their money that is paying for the music. I am seeing too many tight wallets. Please buy a meal, have more than one drink (it doesn’t have to be alcohol), and for Pete’s sake – tip the band at least $5 a piece.
Back to Nick’s … it is a lovely drive (45 minutes from San Rafael), ocean view, free parking, separate restaurant, full bar, good sized dance floor (20 couples?), and stage for the band. The FREE live music is usually every Friday and Saturday, with occasional additional days. Most of the music fits West & East Coast Swing and Latin, maybe a Night Club 2-Step – don’t expect Foxtrot (unless you are early to the floor) or Waltz. Make a plan to go soon.
A reader’s field report states San Francisco Polish Club - Mission City Swing is more Blues dancing than their website published West Coast Swing.
July 31, 2018
Last week, while we were away in NOLA, eating and drinking our way through the French Quarter, we discovered the WWII Museum. Large enough to suspend two bombers from the ceiling and requiring more than a day to see everything, its size will cause us to return next year, because it will take more than the one day we allotted for it. In my opinion, New Orleans humbles the Bay Area’s restaurants – food and service excelled. When possible, we avoided Bourbon Street, because of the smell of humanity and general scuzzyiness that makes one tend to overlook the nice places. Just one block over on parallel streets, everything is much more palatable. Chris and I found nowhere to dance … but weren’t looking that hard either – this is a music city for listening.
I got two reports from the trenches about last week:
Manny Gutierrez Quartet excelled at the Pinole Senior Center. It is not on my radar, but that may change. His group plays the last Friday of every month at the Center.
The Carlton Trio was reported to be awful at the Finley Center (Santa Rosa). Our friends report the hall and floor gets “thumbs up” but the band was the worst; for example, it changed tempo at mid-song, fumbling to close a song, etc. I’ve heard good things about the other bands that play Finley each and every Friday afternoon, so try those out instead.
July 17, 2018
Non-dance: Last Tuesday night, we attended a San Rafael Pacifics’ baseball game. If you like baseball, this is an inexpensive way to enjoy it in a down-home way. It is an “A league,” composed of collegiate, minor league, and the like. Though it is in a “professional” league, a routine fly ball is not a sure thing. Included are silly between-inning entertainments. August 17th Dance Arts will be in the show. You might find a team near you. It is a six-team league: Sonoma Stompers, Vallejo Admirals, Pittsburg Diamonds, Napa Silverados, and Martinez Clippers. The games go through August.
Last Wednesday The Ray Simpson Band played to a good-sized crowd, thanks to members of the Swing Nuts club at the Corte Madera Community Center. Favoring the Swing Nuts, the music was heavily weighted toward Swing and fast Foxtrot but did include Rumba, Cha cha and Tango. I don’t recall a Waltz, Nightclub Two-Step, or West Coast Swing – I could be wrong. The tablecloths, candles, and pitchers of water on large round tables was a nice touch. The concrete floor – not so nice. The band will take August off and return for this free event same-time, same-place in September.
July 10, 2018
Folks, I found a gem for Thursday nights in Sonoma County; that is if you like West Coast Swing, Line Dance, and County 2-Step. A great turnout produced energy on the floor.
This was my first visit to Casa del Mar for the Thursday Night Dance. The restaurant cooks up wonderful Mexican dishes. A full-service bar is next to a separate dining room. Speaking of service – it was spotty – depends on who serves you. One server was horrible, while another was attentive. We were in a separate room, more of a nightclub setting. The crowd that showed up this night are many of the regulars from Sunday’s Monroe Hall West Coast & Country dance. Other nights here, I’m told, are focused on Latin dancing.
For this event, first timers get in free (regular price is $10). Griffith and Colleen did a superb job of teaching West Coast Swing. I like that Griffin was miked – easy to hear him. After the hour lesson, general dancing began on the 30’x45’ wood floor. I didn’t know what to expect – I’ve never seen so many variations of County 2-step. When a Cha cha was finally played by the DJ, I grabbed a partner, hit the floor, only to discover everyone else was doing a Country Line Dance Cha cha. My advice: go, but wear your cowboy boots.
The next night found me at The Ballroom in Rohnert Park. This was my second visit. I thought issuing name tags were a nice touch. Elizabeth taught an intermediate West Coast Swing lesson, but what was so great, the beginners were able to keep up! You do know the West Coast Swing is the Official Dance of the State of California? Did you also know that occasionally it is referred to as the “Third Position Dance?” That is because when you finish your “anchor step” you end up in the third position (ballet feet position).
After the lesson, general dancing began. Of course a few extra WCS, but everything from a Samba to Quickstep, with all the usual in between. Regrettably, after the lesson ended, many left; in part because of the group being over attended by men. Wayne gives The Ballroom lesson and dance party (with cookies) a double thumbs up.
One thumb down for the Lighthouse Bar and Grill in Strawberry. This call was primarily due to the poor dinner service of a rookie waiter and the manager’s “That’s the way it is” attitude. BTW: the food was good. The wood dance floor was sticky – big time! I actually tried the wood deck outside. It had space and no stickiness, but a tad uneven. The dance floor offered adequate room until halfway through the 7th Sons’ second set when others screwed up enough courage to join us and chase us off the floor. Some good news: I hear the restaurant is experimenting with different brands of dining room chairs to replace the old collapsed ones.
The Flamingo Lounge (Santa Rosa) has a new website that is reader friendly and posts the weekend entertainment again. The Tuesday night West Coast Swing has been discontinued due to lack of attendance.
From Chris B. (thanks): “People in Plazas … a wonderful series of free lunchtime outdoor concerts in SF … All shows are free and no tips are accepted as grant money from local businesses pays for the bands… The shows start and end promptly and the quality of the outdoor “dance floors” varies wildly from Mint Plaza (very good) to Transamerica Redwood Park (very bad).” Chris goes on to recommend downloading the PDF from the website: http://peopleinplazas.org
Sunday I visited San Francisco's Great American Music Hall for the 70’s Dance Party. To be brief, if it returns, go for the music and costumes, plus get some dances in as the crowd ebbs and flows on the dance floor. 3 hours of non-stop live music.
July 3, 2018
I’m well into my sixth year of Wayne’s Window and still finding more venues for your dancing pleasure in the North Bay and beyond.
Last Tuesday was the final performance before the summer break for People of Note at the Margaret Todd Center (Novato). It had one of the larger turnouts I’ve seen. Many who came to listen, but the dance floor often had over 20 dancers (okay, the Polka number kept most in their seats). The music was heavily weighted to Foxtrot/Swing (often dancers were doing both), a few waltzes, and a minimal Latin. The band resumes September 24. Also on vacation until September are the Ray Simpson Band at Corte Madera Community Center and the Starduster Orchestra at the Mill Valley Community Center. This leaves traditional ballroom with live music in Marin left to the San Rafael Community Center on each month’s last Sunday when Manny Gutierrez Quartet plays.
Sunday, we visited the Marin County Fair, primarily for the Beach Boys. Of the original five, only Mike Love was on stage. Simply, it did not live up to the last time I saw them and was more of a tribute band featuring Mike Love.
Speaking of oldies, check out Paul McCartney Carpool Karaoke. It runs 24 minutes, but it is worth it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjvzCTqkBDQ
June 26, 2018
I’m back from three weeks traveling the Inland Passage of Alaska and Vancouver, B.C. Thank you, Karen, for babysitting my website while I was gone. Something new here, you might notice that my attached Wayne’s Window list is now available in docx and PDF format. Look it over; I’ve found almost 200 dances over the next 14 days in the North Bay and beyond.
A few special dances are happening for the Fourth, but a big standout is the USS Hornet (Alameda Island), which will have live music all afternoon by Mitch Polzak & the Royal Deuces (Americana), Shark Alley Hobos (New Orleans/Jazz), and Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums (Blues/Boogie). Fireworks can be viewed from the bow (San Leandro) or aft (San Francisco). Parking is abundant and free.
Le Colonial is back with live music and dance. Remember, this is the venue that dropped the dance because of low revenue (i.e., too many were not spending money). The bands I see listed are best suited for Swing.
Also new (to me) is Mission City Swing at the Polish Club in San Francisco’s Potrero Hill district. Every Wednesday night West Coast Swing lessons are followed by dancing at 9pm.
My ever-favorite Presidio Yacht Club is not listing music on the web page, and Maria writes that it is difficult to find Thursday night music because the bands are playing to a too-small crowd for free. I do know the Lonestar Retobates will play PYC July 8 afternoon.
May 29, 2018
Summer vacation is coming upon us. Monroe Hall will be dark June 11 until re-start on June 29 … well that is, music that interests us – Scottish dance, drum circles, and the like continue during that time period. Also in July and August, Margaret Todd Center, Mill Valley Community Center, and Corte Madera Community Center will be dark. The bands will take a vacation, returning to their usual schedule in September.
The best I can tell, Friday Night Blues dancing has been dropped at Levy Studio in San Francisco.
We say “Good bye” to WnY (last dance tonight), since they lost their lease. Some of the events move to Dance Arts in San Rafael.
Web browsing: Wayne’s Window is best viewed with Microsoft Edge, Opera, or Google Chrome. As much as I favor Mozilla Firefox, it is not utilizing the full scope of my postings. For example, Bold Text is often ignored.
Rancho Nicasio has some great bands on Fridays that I’ve NOT posted because they now only preform in the bar where dancing is only in the aisles. Saturday nights, though, the music is played in the dining room (note the lack of discounted cover charge for diners) where the dance floor is acceptably sized.
We visited the Temple Israel of Alameda Monday night to check out Dave’s Swingtime Band. In the past we’ve had an excuse for not attending (Richmond-San Rafael Bridge backup), but that is gone. But it is still a 40 minute drive from San Rafael. But why have my friends in the East Bay not been attending? Granted, your first visit is a tad difficult to find the place (Hint: way back in the left parking lot). Such is outweighed by finding a live band on a Monday night – truly a rare event. Most importantly, this is a great band – as good as we’ve seen anywhere else. Half of the 17 musicians are active professionals, e.g. first trumpet for the S.F. Opera. Up to 50 musicians cycle through for a seat. They have a tight sound, plus tonight’s vocalist was better than many we hear around town. The dance floor is typical rec center vinyl. It has about the same size as the Margaret Todd Center in Novato. The music was Foxtrots, Swing, Samba, American Tango, Waltz, Cha Cha and a Rumba. They play every last Monday of the month unless it falls on Christmas or NYE.
BTW: our favorite band, Project:Pimento, will be playing at Pagan Idol in Downtown S.F. Thursday June 21 at 7pm. If you are in the neighborhood and like retro-lounge music – check them out. From what I can glean, dance space is minimal to nil.
Non-dance: Hamlet is at Forest Meadows at Dominican University in San Rafael. It is an abridged show (only 3 hours). I loved it. Chris, who has seen Hamlet multiple times over the years, opines it to be the second best she’s ever seen. Come out and support local talent. Be warned, it can get chilly (bring a blanket each – if anything else, you can sit on it). http://www.marinshakespeare.org/
Sunday’s renamed B Street Ballroom at the San Rafael Community Center was a success with an increase in crowd size (75) = energy in the room. A wonderful way to spend the last Sunday of each month. And, besides the music of Manny Gutierrez Quartet, it has free parking and a spread of goodies.
May 22, 2018
I've lost hours due to Comcast and my emails. Most of you on my email list did not get last week's Wayne's Window and this week's was probably late. See below for May 15 news and comment.
Last Tuesday, the Starduster Orchestra attracted dancers from outlying counties to come to the Mill Valley Community Center. Two hours of fine dancing … now, if we can only figure out how to get the slow and/or stationary dancers to stay toward the center.
Our first trip across the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge in months was beyond lovely. Chris and I dared to leave Marin to venture off to Oakland Friday night at 6pm. The last time we tried similar, we eventually made a U-turn back to home because the traffic wouldn’t move – on a Thursday night yet! We all know that Friday night traffic anywhere in this country is horrific. Let-me-tell-you: Friday, we might have slowed to 40 mph once or twice. This clear sailing seems to be all because of re-opening the third eastbound lane. We can again visit our favorite East Bay venues without distress.
Speaking of visits, we decided on dinner and dance at the Terrace Room overlooking Lake Merritt in central Oakland. The dining room along with menu has been reconfigured. Since our last visit, the bandstand has been moved to the alcove overlooking the street and tables have replaced the former location. The menu is simpler, but the taste is magnificent. The Art Deco appeal of the place works its way into the cocktail list of adult beverages concocted 90 years ago.
We were lucky to find free street parking within two blocks of the Terrace Room/Lake Merritt Hotel. Others took extra trips around the block(s) to find parking, in part to Lakeside Drive being rebuilt. Hopefully, it will all be resolved by our next visit.
Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums were playing that night. With our 7pm arrival, we saw only one couple and an elderly groupie on the dance floor – it didn’t look good for an evening of high energy. But, by the time we left, the dance floor was packed with dancers doing the Swing and Balboa overflowing between tables. Our dinner guests became enamored with Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums.
May 15, 2018
I was away last week for a scuba diving trip – no dancing to report. Though I heard the monthly dance at the San Rafael Community Center has made changes, including the working title to the “B Street Ballroom.” The turnout was nearly double in April I’m told.
Computer stuff: The “find” command may help to navigate the Wayne’s Window list. Let’s say you want to see a list of the Allegro dances. Highlight “Allegro,” then Ctrl + F. Or Ctrl +F, then type in “Allegro.” Or select one of my city abbreviations to see a city listing. Mac users, use Cmd + F. This command won’t work with all programs, but many word processors, email readers, and web browsers recognize it. Give it a try.
The San Rafael-Richmond Bridge has opened the eastbound third lane. Now we in the North Bay can visit the East Bay again without such a horrendous traffic backup. In fact, I’ll put it to the test Friday with a dinner and dance at the Terrace Room with the music of Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums.
May 1, 2018
This latest posting has 277 dances in the North Bay and beyond over the next three weeks.
I had to drop the Shades of Blue (SF) listings because of a poorly maintained Facebook page. More and more venues and bands are whimping-out of having a well-presented webpage and substituting with a sloppy Facebook page.
The annual Bay Area Dance Week has started and will run through Sunday May 6. For more information, go to: http://bayareadance.org/events/
Last month, a loosely formed dance club of about thirty dancers, “Swing Nuts,” showed up en masse at the Corte Madera Community Center. The Ray Simpson Band picked up on the energy and never sounded better. No one seemed to care about the concrete floor. The music favored Swing. Regretfully, the crowd was oblivious to allowing traveling dancers have the perimeter. The momentum of the evening was lost to celebrate a birthday on the dance floor. But all-in-all it made for one of the best Corte Madera dances.
According to the Flamingo Lounge (Santa Rosa) web page, weekend live music has been dropped. DJ dances still exist Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
We welcome a new venue to Wayne’s Window: The Runway in Napa. I’ve not been there, but understand that it has a freshly refinished 12’ x 20’ dancefloor.
April 29, 2018
The May 5 dance at Body Vibe (S.Raf) has been canceled. Next one will be June 9.
The annual Bay Area Dance Week has started, and will run through Sunday May 6. For more information, go to http://bayareadance.org/events/
April 10, 2018
You can find here 375 dances I located in the North Bay (actually, Oakland and north) spanning three weeks (through May 8).
Here is a fun video depicting dance through the years:
https://www.facebook.com/MetDaanMagazine/videos/2427750390796004/
Friday’s rain must have kept people at home, inside, warm, and dry from the low attendance reports I heard. Not so at The Ballroom in Rohnert Park – around two dozen dancers showed up. This typical dance studio, with the usual format (lesson then dance), has a wood floor with spring to it and its low ceiling gave a cozy atmosphere. I liked the friendly feeling of the crowd and was happy to see Elizabeth Barrett teaching – I remember her from the old days at Bay West. Marin has enough venues to keep me busy (I live in San Rafael), so seldom do I venture beyond, but I’ll keep The Ballroom on my radar for another visit.
Saturday night at the Sausalito Seahorse, Last Call Troubadours played much original “Americana-flavored roots-rock.” We found their songs to have 1980’s roots as did the familiar pieces played. I’m finding a need to develop my West Coast Swing skills for the clubs I’m frequenting. That or I need to develop some sort of freestyle that doesn’t make me look like a spastic monkey. That evening the surprisingly danceable brick dance floor filled up sporadically with friends of the band and patrons in a freestyle mood relegating the few of us desiring structure to the corners. High energy drove the middle-aged-plus crowd.
At the Seahorse, the calamari appetizer plus warm bread with a side of garlic-ladened pesto for dipping took the edge off our appetite until a well-prepared dover sole arrived. Our waitress, Ara, was a new face to us. Her service was leaps and bounds above the dismal table service experienced in the past. Full $15 cover charge was billed to diners. Speaking of money, well into the second set, we were the only ones to tip the band. Regular readers know tipping is a mantel I carry to encourage others, for fear live music will otherwise diminish.
Shades of Blue dance venue has been dropped because the most recent status is dated October 2017. If anyone knows anything more recent, please send it to me.
April 3, 2018
The venues just keep on coming about 90 dances a week are posted here for pleasure. Get out there and kick up your heels and have some fun. At venues with live music, show your appreciation with tips and applause. Believe me, the bands pick up your energy.
After many, many years of listing Noel Jewkes at the Sausalito Seahorse on Tuesday nights, it seemed as a visit was overdue. We found Noel playing saxophone, accompanied with bass, drums, piano, and a singer. Improvisation was necessary to find room to dance, finally choosing more to the rear of the room on the brick floor. We fashioned a Rumba, Foxtrot, and a E.C. Swing to the smooth jazz. On Tuesday nights, go here for a jazz club setting, have a meal, maybe a beverage from the beer and wine bar (loved the $8 Sangria) but don’t have your heart set on dance. Other nights at the Seahorse offer a wide palette of music.
Frank Flores starts lessons this month at new local at Body Vibe in San Rafael (WnY is closing soon).
March 27, 2018
“G’day, mate.” Thank you, Karen, for minding the Wayne’s Window website while we were Down Under.
Finley Center has canceled its third-Friday night dance and Steve Luther, DJ extraordinaire, will no longer be hosting the Friday afternoon Senior Dances. Friday afternoon Senior Dances continues.
The building that houses WnY has been sold and will be closed June 1. West Coast Swing lessons and dances will continue through the end of May; after that, I-don’t-know. The tango contingent, El Beso, is moving to Dance Arts in May.
Frank Flores is moving his operation from WnY to BodyVibe in San Rafael. They start Tuesday night classes there April 3 and hope to have Saturday dance parties.
Here is an enlighting website about dancing and health: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/08/170825124902.htm
Rumor has it that Le Colonial may soon be having dancing again, currently it just offers.
Hello, any polka dancers out there? On many Sundays, the Sonoma Moose Lodge hosts Polkas, usually in the late afternoon.
February 23, 2018
Thanks to Karen for keeping the Wayne’s Window website tidy while I’m away. I’m finding certain internet sites can’t be visited from outside the USA.
Visualization: learn to dance and get more sleep. Jack Nicklaus says he never took a swing, even in practice, without first visualizing it - mind and body working together. Practice and repetition is how we will improve our dance skills. Not always can we physically practice. I’ve taken to reviewing lessons and patterns through my mind before going to sleep. This has improved my skills almost as much as if I’d been on the dance floor – plus it clears my mind of the garbage that is keeping me awake.
Scuba diving took me away again; this time to the Club Med* at the Turks and Caicos islands in the eastern Caribbean. Afternoon music often invited us to dance: Night Club 2-Step, Cha Cha, Swing, Salsa & Rumba. After 9pm, techno music took over, we tried Merengue, but retreated to quieter spots for conversation and laughter. As I’ve intimated previously, keep your expectations low for partner dance at resorts and cruises, but if you like freestyle and loud then you are in for a treat.
* for a full trip report – email me.
We get a new (to me) venue: Local Edition in San Francisco caters to the Lindy Hop and Swing crowd with live music on Tuesdays and maybe other days.
Use caution, because some out-of-date information is listed, but here is another source for dance in the Bay Area: http://dancecircle.org
Please note that the Napa Tuesday Night Dance has moved to the Pelusi Building on Streblow Drive.
Finley Center (Santa Rosa) has canceled the evening dances on the third Saturday.
February 6, 2018
“Thank you” to all my readers for the praise and news tidbits – it keeps this labor of love going.
Last Friday I dropped in at Dance Arts for the Night Club Two-Step lesson and dance party. Enough people attended that staff split up into two groups. Beginners had their own lesson in the smaller studio. At the dance party I had the chance to dance with a few from the beginner workshop and for the most part found them to have promising talent.
Non-dance: Saturday we took our out-of-town guest to The Alley in uptown Oakland on Grand Avenue. With effort, free street parking can be found. We went for the mid-century version of Karaoke: piano bar. The Alley shows its decades of existence in a fun, rustic way. Ron Dibble was behind the keyboard for years, but sadly passed away last year. We met Jeff in Ron’s place. Jeff’s talent is way above average, he seemingly knows all the songs and can match the key to your voice. I’m told that Brian also plays piano. Other nights have Karaoke. This might be the place for a fun nightcap after dancing at the Terrace Room or Lake Merritt Dance Center. BTW: this place is cash only, with an ATM on site.
Has anyone been to the Lake Merritt Dance Center on Monday nights? I would love a field report.
January 30, 2018
Watch out about calculating the year of “Classic Rock.” Saturday we were curious about the Big Easy venue in Petaluma. The band, Stingray, plays “classic rock.” That means music from the ‘80s and ‘90s – not ‘50s and ‘60s, but Chris and I had a wonderful evening. The food was excellent, service was some of the best, and the band played to the crowd (40 to 60 years). Chris and I got in a few partner dances before the free-stylers took over the smooth concrete dance floor. Not a single slow song was played in the first set. Expect to dance EC and WC Swing plus a Cha Cha to their music. The place has the ambiance of a cellar club in Chicago (though it is on ground level). As usual, I recommend hitting the dance floor as soon a the band starts, before the liquor loosens up others’ legs.
Non-dance: Friday, “Who’s Live Anyway” made an appearance at the Marin Civic Center, for what appears to be an annual event. The place was packed. Four comedians did improv. What they did, they did well. Personally, I prefer scripted comedy. If you love improv, then definitely go next year; otherwise, support your local comedy club elsewhere.
We say “goodbye” to George’s Nightclub in San Rafael. The Sunday Banda has been dropped from its calendar, leaving DJ and Karaoke as the only music events. And, for some reason (I may be wrong), the DJ probably won’t be playing too many Foxtrots.
Shades of Blue in San Francisco seems to have fallen off the radar – let me know if anything changes. Elsewhere, Sundown Blues offers Blues dancing in Berkeley and San Francisco each week.
January 23, 2018
About 80 dances are available here in "Venues" each week for you choice in the North Bay and beyond. "Locations" lists all the places where you can dance, plus learn. Lessons are broken out and posted in “Learn.”
KEEPING HANDS CLEAN
Q: What's better for getting hands clean and germ-free: soap and water or hand sanitizer?
A: Soap and water. Wetting, lathering up, and rubbing your hands for
20 seconds—then rinsing thoroughly and drying—reduces bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can inactivate some germs, including cold and flu viruses, but they don't kill other common bugs such as norovirus (commonly referred to as the stomach flu) and Clostridium difficile (which can cause serious diarrhea). Hand sanitizer also may not kill germs if your hands are dirty or greasy. That said, a sanitizer that's at least 60 percent alcohol is better than nothing if you cover your hands thoroughly, rub it in, and don't wipe it off.
– Consumer Reports “On Health” (Jan. 2018)
What is it that draws us back to the Sausalito Seahorse? We complain about the poor service, the brick “dance floor,” a dog running through the dining area and other barbs; yet it is as if a meteor landed there and draws in people in. We find an energy, be it from the crowd and/or band, but it just feels good there.
Hot Rod Jukebox packed in the (young) crowd at the Presidio Yacht Club Friday night. The dance floor was packed as the band keep a feverous beat all night – I’m told “Not a single slow song was played.”
There is a big to-do in the City, the Edwardian Ball begins on Friday with “The World’s Faire” followed by Saturday’s ball. https://www.edwardianball.com/san-francisco
Last Saturday, at the Lighthouse Bar & Grille (Mill Valley/Strawberry), Void Where Prohibited pretty much packed the place. Food and service was good. The playlist favored East and West Coast Swing, with a few other styles sprinkled about. Partner and freestyle dancers respected each other when the dance floor filled up.
Attention Klipptones’ fans, after many months, Thursday will be their last night at the Fairmont’s Top of the Mark.
Live Tango music on Mondays died quickly at Bellota Bistro in San Francisco, but it has changed the venue to every other Friday.
The Temple Israel of Alameda still has dances on the last Monday of every month. The Dave's Swingtime Band rents the space but is not affiliated with the temple, thus the reason the dance is no longer on the calendar.
January 16, 2018
We welcome my newest find: live music on Monday night at Bellato Bistro in San Francisco. Here you can practice your Argentine Tango free every Monday.
Last Friday, Chris and I were at Dance Arts for Christian’s 90-minute Foxtrot workshop followed by a dance party. Actually, there were two separate Foxtrot classes – a nice touch. The other was set up in the smaller studio for the beginners, taught by Noreen.
Saturday, we had a wonderful dinner and dance at the Lighthouse Bar and Grille. The fare is American with a Danish influence. It was great to see so many friends there. The 7th Sons played classic rock from the ’60s and ’70s that most suited West Coast Swing and Night Club 2-Step; though a few songs were compatible with EC Swing and Latin. One song my partner and I eeked-out my version of the Peabody before the floor filled. If the Lighthouse management is reading this – “Please re-cushion the dining room chairs!”
January 9, 2018
The holidays are well behind us, the dance scene is beginning normalcy. I’ve come across at least 80 different dances each week for us to enjoy here in the North Bay and beyond. Keep in mind that this doesn’t include all the lessons that are available everywhere.
New Year’s Eve field reports from you were about Just Dance and Rancho Nicasio – both were rave reviews. If next year’s NYE is anything like last, then you cannot go wrong by going to either.
A reader asked “What is the largest dance floor in Marin?” It is a close call. My best guess in order:
San Rafael Community Center
Mill Valley Community Center
Margaret Todd Center
Corte Madera Community Center
Dance Arts
WnY
The first five are all close in size. Technically, “real” dance floors are at Dance Arts and WnY. Those floors are “sprung” – a surface that has a bit of bounce. I should add, the worst floor of the group is at Corte Madera Community Center, which is smoothed concrete.
Last Friday we were at Dance Arts. After a Rumba lesson by Fredi, there was a dance party with refreshments and raffle. Fredi stuck around to make sure everyone got a dance (yours truly also assisted in getting the women out on the dance floor with my Chris’ blessings).
January 2, 2018
What did you do for New Year’s Eve? I’d love to hear from you. Myself? “Do as I say – not as I do.” Yes, I suggested 30 venues for you, but Chris and I went to none. We were at a party at the San Francisco Victorian Payne Mansion Hotel. Dancing was an afterthought. The DJ played modern pop music – none that I recognized. If I had danced, Merengue or Bachata would have been appropriate to this style music. One of the many high points of the night was that … we found free street parking nearby!
Non-dance: Doctor Gonzo, a popular comedian/musician in the ’80s and ’90s is in town. We saw him at Trek Winery in Novato Friday. His act was “nice,” but we got our best laughs from Stephen B. who hails from Sacramento.
I found another website for you. It covers much of the style I favor, is centrally located to favor San Francisco, but reaches out beyond to far away as Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa. There are links to bands, editorials, venues, etc. – almost too much information. “About Dancing” is especially good for finding Viennese Waltzes: http://aboutdancing.info
December 27, 2017
While you have been wearing out the dance floor this last weekend (you were, weren’t you?), Chris and I tested the climate of the Midwest. All of a sudden, 50⁰ F. doesn’t seem all that bad.
New Year’s Eve is upon us. Besides the two-dozen + events I’ve uncovered; New Year’s Eve – Eve offers a few more for those who wish to stay in on NYE. Be advised that reservations need to be made for many of the events, and it probably should be done NOW. Some are sold out.
Further (disclaimer), the holidays made the postings of the venues extra shaky. Please take the time to re-confirm my listings. Note that many of the venues are “dark” this Friday. In fact, the pickings are downright slim.
December 19
The holidays are on us and I’ve been as busy as a certain fellow in the North Pole, checking my list twice. Attached you’ll find oodles of places to dance in the North Bay and beyond. But some naughty children out there do not tend their websites, so I implore you to double check my postings, especially during these holidays.
If you haven’t made plans for New Year’s Eve, I suggest you stop everything else and make reservations. A few venues have already sold out.
Tango Mango is a non-profit website for, yes, you guessed it – Argentine Tango. It is a marvelous source for venues. I’ve just donated (even though I don’t do the Argentine Tango – yet). I hope you will contribute too.
Dance Magazine wrote an article promoting massage and debunking myths. Thanks to Kat for forwarding it: http://www.dancemagazine.com/the-rubdown-2306996567.htm
Saturday, we were at Dance Arts for the big Holiday Show and Dance Party. Ron Montez gave a Night Club 2-Step lesson. Professional that he is, he kept it at a level for all those there. The show was magical, starting with the first performance done by preschoolers. Parrish was able to attend, though he sat quietly in a wheelchair throughout the evening. His health kept him away from Friday’s show. His visits to the studio maybe more infrequent.
December 12, 2017
A lot to discuss. First, be aware that the holidays are causing calendar changes (mostly cancelations); do verify before heading out.
Listed in "Venues" are more than 160 venues you can dance at over the next 14 days in the North Bay and beyond. This count does NOT include the 28 places for New Year’s Eve. You’ll note that the NYE prices range from $0 to $3,250! What catches my fancy for NYE? The Terrace Room, USS Hornet, Napa Ballroom Dancers and Nick’s Rockaway. I suggest you decide soon, many of the good ones will sell out quickly and others require reservations.
Cha-Cha-changes. Did you notice the changes? I’ve included the town location of the venues in an abbreviation. Do you like the new look here on the website?
Non-dance: Thursday, we drove in for the San Francisco Symphony Cirque de la Symphonie. Hint: I strongly recommended that you pre-purchase the parking when you buy your tickets to remove stress when going into a city that doesn’t like autos. For me (I love novelty), the high point of the evening was the performance of “Little Bolero Boy.” You can check out here the Clear Lake Symphony’s version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IG1bnuaIuRU
We did dance Sunday at the Great American Music Hall’s Holiday Big Band Bash featuring Full Moon Swing with 30 singers. I was delighted to see so many familiar faces – not so delighted by the cramped dance floor (wheelchair dancers made it even tighter). Chris and I had a wonderful time. Of “our group” the reviews were from “left early” to “most excellent.” The venue hosts a similar big band event on April 15. If you go and want good seats, I suggest arriving half an hour before door opening and stand in line.
Did you read my commentary last week about people who to give unrequested dance advice? I was told that I pulled my punches and was too nice. So again: Don’t comment, instruct, or advise unless asked!
December 5, 2017
The holidays are upon us! Parties and cancelations abound. I’ve a huge list of NYE dances – please proofread it for me; also suggest of any I missed.
Last week at Novato’s Margaret Todd Center, we danced to the music of People of Note 16-piece band. The dance floor was lightly attended, so we enjoyed lots of room for Ballroom and Latin dances.
Friday, Dance Arts featured a Cha Cha lesson by ever-so popular Mark Novak, followed by a dance party. By today’s standards, it was a moderate sized crowd. Everyone appreciated that Mark sticks around after the lesson, trying to dance with every gal there. I tried to keep up with him, since the female-to-male ratio was 2:1 (“Surf City” as one dancer commented).
Teaching: a comment on etiquette
Ask first!
Guys, this seems to be more of a problem with us, but ladies, please consider too. First, do you remember how you react when someone critiques your dance, even in the nicest way? Second, consider during a lesson (group or even with just a partner), ask first if “May I make a suggestion.” Usually dancers only want corrections/guidance from instructors – not peers. Lastly, never, NEVER, dance with a stranger or acquaintance then comment on their style unless requested. If you have a lesser dancer, preferably find a move/pattern to complement and make her feel like a queen. I’m not talking about finding a beginner who doesn’t know a dance and you offer to teach – that’s a horse of a different color.
Field Report from Toni (thanks):
“I went to the Albany Community Center yesterday to hear the Albany Jazz Band … I can tell you this is NOT a dance. It is a concert in a fairly small room. 1/4 of the room is filled with a full-size Big Band, 1/2 of the room is filled with chairs in rows, which were filled with listeners. The other 1/4 is on the sides, of which one side is big enough for dancing. There was only one couple dancing when I was there. It appears to be a bring your own partner situation…”
“What I heard was not standards, and certainly more contemporary than the '30s-'50s. The band is good …”
She used an app on her iPhone to check the sound level. Toni reports the average was 95 decibels, and the high was 107.9.
November 28, 2017
Thanks to Michael and Phia for again updating the Wayne’s Window website while we were away for Thanksgiving in Jamaica. We got in a bit of dancing at the resort – mostly NC 2-Step and Swing, the rest of the time was scuba and socializing (and gaining weight). Theme nights brought out the wild in me.
Flamingo Lounge in Santa Rosa has ceased posting the weekend entertainment. The Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday dances continue.
Just for December, the Friday Senior Dance at Finley Center has been moved to Wednesdays (1pm).
Body Vibe Studio in San Rafael has canceled its dance this month.
Country Line Dancing will return to the Novato Hopmonk on the second and fourth Thursdays.
I’ve got to give a plug for Joallyn and Two Left Feet studio in Danville where dance lessons, events, and parties galore are offered. Danville is off my radar, but - if I lived closer – I’d be frequenting it. I’ve met Joallyn and think she is marvelous. BUT, besides pouring out admiration and endorsements, what I really want to point out is this (correct me if I’m wrong) is the only place in the Bay Area that arranges for dance-themed ocean cruises.
The website is: www.joallynballroom.com
Joallyn’s email: joallynballroom@gmail.com
Field Report:
Last month Toni reported about the Klipptones playing at the Terrace Room:
“The Klipptones played danceable music averaging 84 decibels, which was comfortable without earplugs, yet filled the room with sound. Hurrah! They are a classy looking group, actually wearing tuxedos. Who does that any more?”
“They played one Cha Cha during the last two sets when I was there. They played a couple slow dances. Mostly they played medium and fast temps Swing/Lindy songs. They could have been playing to the crowd. I heard they sometimes play Foxtrots and Rumbas. They had both a male singer and a female singer. They have a very professional sound.”
“The small dance floor is now wood – probably fake wood, though much better than it used to be. I was told it can be a little sticky sometimes. Maybe the stage was a little different? Though the table layout is the same.”
“I recognized a half dozen Lindy dancers, and there were enough other dancers to keep the dance floor full. I got both kicked hard and stepped on hard, not my favorite. The dance floor is still small. There were not that many diners, so some people were dancing between the tables. The atmosphere was fun and friendly.”
The Terrace Room will NOT be having live music in December due to private events. Live music will pick up again in January.
November 14, 2017
With the holidays coming upon us, please double check the listed venues; I expect changes.
The ever popular Starduster Orchestra dance at the Mill Valley Community Center has been bumped up a week for just this month. The dance is tonight at 7:30pm. If you see me standing still, do come over and say “Hi,” and, ladies, ask for a dance.
Last Wednesday, I was pleased to see a change at the Corte Madera Community Center. A few tables with clothes and candles were added and the lights were a bit lower. I don’t know if this feature is permanent, but it sure added to the place. The crowd was slow to arrive, but an hour later the dance floor was seeing 8 to 10 couples. The Ray Simpson Band arranged a Cha Cha for the occasion.
Two days later, we donned vintage attire and visited old Petaluma – beautiful turn of the century homes. The 1910-circa Petaluma Womens Club held a 1940s USO dance with Swing Fever playing Swing and Foxtrot. The rec-room-type dance floor was good-sized. Did you know that crumbled potato chips quicken the surface? Though a one-shot-event, if similar pops up, do consider attending.
Non-dance: We went to see "Pinky" at the Belrose Theater on 5th Street in San Rafael. It received rave reviews in the Marin IJ and we give it raves too. It's a coming of age love story with humor and heart. Two stars...the boy, David, and the girl, Pinky. The gal had won the SF Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle award for Best Principal Actress in 2017 for her portrayal in Venus in Fur (which Chris saw last year and was floored by her excellence then too). The show's final performances are next weekend: Friday, Nov 17 at 8pm and Saturday, 2pm and 8 pm, Nov. 18. Tickets are $21 for seniors and $25 for adults. So worth it!
Order tickets online at http://marinonstage.org/
George’s Nightclub (San Rafael), has dropped the “Latin Caribbean Night” due to lack of attendance. Sunday Bandas (live Mexican/Latin music) will continue; depending on the band, admission is $30 to $50.
The Terrace Room (Oakland) is not maintaining its website, so you will have to phone for information.
November 7, 2017
Friday night, Christian at Dance Arts demonstrated a complex (to me) Silver pattern. The way he taught it made it danceable before we were through. A dance party followed the lesson. I scooted out early to check out the band Loving Cub at the Presidio Yacht Club.
Once there, I found out how the younger crowd likes to “dance:” stand on the dance floor with beverage in hand and watch the band with an occasional sway side to side. And the PYC changed bands from the website listing – no Loving Cub. The band Assateague packed the dance floor with thirty-somethings overflowing onto the deck outside. The music we heard was soft modern rock – nice, but nothing I would dance to, if there had been room on the floor.
The reports I’m getting about the Tonga Room are similar, with the crowd taking over the dance floor and just standing there. More bad news: Tonga Room is no longer taking reservations for fewer than 10 people – wait for dinner could be an hour long.
Back to the PYC: My stay there was measured in minutes. My “partner in crime” and I drove to the other side of Sausalito to find Doc Kraft Band playing at the Sausalito Seahorse. Tiger, a female vocalist has injected vitality into the band. The brick dance floor was filled with all types of dancers, including her very young grandchildren. I thought the room had at least 4 tables too many, making the dance area cramped. We arrived early enough to be charged for admission, but too late for the staff to offer service. I’m not surprised; service has always been a weak point there. So there you have it, the place charges admission and has poor service, cramped brick dance floor, little ones on the dance floor, an occasional dog wandering around – yet, I still recommend the place. The food is reliably good, the stage is raised for visibility, free parking can always be found, fine for people watching, etc.
You Lindy Hoppers probably know about it already … Fog City Stompers are holding a weekend workshop. Dances and lessons will be held in the evenings at different places in San Francisco, go to: http://fogcitystomp.com/
In Petaluma, early evening, Swing Fever headlines a fundraiser for the Petaluma Women’s Club. It looks to have “simple food” and cocktails included in the $50 cost, and some great raffle prizes. We will be there.
October 31, 2017
For those who haven’t had enough Halloween parties, two remain that I know of: Allegro and Hornblower Yacht.
Speaking of Halloween, Chris has a sore foot, so without my darling wife at my side, it was difficult to get in the “spirit” – so I donned my zoot suit (no makeup) and dropped in at Dance Arts Friday. The crowd was respectable in size, but no longer “bursting at the seams” from days of yore.
Saturday, 7th Sons played at the Lighthouse in Strawberry/Mill Valley. Dancers en masse (up to 10 couples on the dance floor) descended upon the place. Wonderful dinner, wine, and friends made the evening fun. Chris socialized as I sought dance partners – of which I enjoyed many (Thank you, ladies). The restaurant was generous in prizes (just about everyone in costume left with a bottle of wine).
I couldn’t make it to the San Rafael Community Center for the Goldenaires’ dance. A report came in that the Manny Gutierrez Quartet has a lady bass player and singer. All was great: the music, the dance floor and snacks. The only problem is the small turnout. Folks, you are missing out on a great dance opportunity by not checking out this Sunday afternoon monthly event.
Mondays at Lake Merritt Dance Center have gone from live Swing music, to DJ, to lessons only. You will now have to go somewhere else for your Swing dance.
Also recently axed was the Line Dancing at Hopmonk (Novato).
Did you get the memo? The well-attended Mill Valley Community Center dance has moved up one week for November only. The Starduster Orchestra will play on November 14 (7:30pm)
October 24, 2017
Halloween is upon us. I’ve found 26 dances where you are encouraged to wear a costume. No costume? In Marin, I suggest you go to D’Lynne’s for costume rental or purchase; it also has an extensive supply of makeup and accessories. The Belrose, also in San Rafael, also has costume rentals.
I spent much time at Eventbrite.com (https://www.eventbrite.com/d/ca--san-francisco/events/) perusing Halloween and NYE events for us. Most that offer “dance,” offer Top 40 DJ dances; but help yourself and check out all the goings on – there is a big bunch to look at.
Some of you expressed interest about my recent scuba trip in Cuba. Here is a video from our dive boat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIUOXcwPwiU.
Different date, but exactly what and where I was and what I saw/did.
Here is a fun, short dance video, depicting dance through the years (just 1½ minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kc_JhhKN7OU
Dancing with friends at the Mill Valley Community Center is always a bright spot in my month. Regretfully, Chris’ plantar fasciitis (sore foot) flared up. How did she put it? Oh, yes, “If you tell me to go – then I’ll go.” Being a veteran of the marriage wars, I knew damn well to let her stay home. The bright side was more time to dance with the solo gals. The crowd was a tad smaller (because of the Sonoma fires?), but they kept the large dance floor well populated. I was delighted to see many fivers in the tip basket.
Friday, Stompy Jones drew many familiar faces to Rancho Nicasio. The just-a-little-different music of the ’30s and ’40s is refreshing to our ears. Also included, as Stompy says, “some of the more modern music of the ’50s.” The 7-piece band dresses up in ’30s attire to set the mood. John Costa offered a rather sophisticated pre-dance lesson. Dance floor space is adequate. The food and service satisfied the fussy diners that we are. The drive through West Marin’s redwoods is half-an-hour west of Hwy 101.
Saturday, Chris’ slight limp couldn’t keep her down – so off to the City we went, for the “Pre-Halloween Electro Ball” at the “Steamy Sci-Fi Speakeasy” benefiting the Center of Sex & Culture. I dusted off my steampunk top hat and Chris found her corset and off we went. The place is non-descript (we walked by it), but inside, it’s adorned with art work only for the open-minded. All the furniture was moved to the walls to expose a particleboard floor; which was better to dance on than what some of my frequented venues offer. We were surprised that the expected mass of diverse dancers … never emerged. Our other surprise was that this turned into a ASL party (not mentioned in the press release we received).
The “crowd” peaked at just over a paltry dozen while we were there (“Hey, more room for us to dance!” – ed.). We had a good time (“adult beverages” were sold) – but sadly Chris pushed her foot too far. Bernie, the organizer, has held these monthly dances for much of the year, but he will change to a special occasion event from now on, due to poor attendance (stiff competition from nearby venues with live music).
Good news: “Thursday Night Dancing” aka Casa del Mar in Santa Rosa raised $617.00 for the Sonoma County Fire Victim’s Fund, which will be matched by Oliver’s Market.
Welcome to this site, CELLspace, which offers “alternative Milonga” with live music every Wednesday in San Francisco. A one-hour class is offered beforehand. It is at the SOMAarts Cultural Center in San Francisco. They advise FREE parking can be found – just do NOT park at Trader Joe’s.
October 17, 2017
It is difficult to be cheery, what with the tragic fires in the North Bay. The silver lining is that, to the best of my knowledge, all of our favorite venues are unscathed. But I’m recommending you re-verify before attending any venues in Santa Rosa. Both Monroe Hall and the Flamingo Lounge were closed last weekend, but my understanding is that they will be operational soon – if not right now.
Fire benefit events:
Steamy Speakeasy Electro pre-Halloween Sci Fi Ball & Dance Classes in S.F. :
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/steamy-speakeasy-electro-halloween-sci-fi-ball-dance-classes-tickets-38163618410
Casa del Mar Santa Rosa:
http://www.thursdaynightdancing.com
The Ballroom Santa Rosa:
http://theballroomexperience.com/Schedule/Calendar/
Thanks to my wife, Chris, for updating the Wayne’s Window website while I was scuba diving off the southern coast of Cuba. All I did on board a dive boat was eat, dive, dive, eat, dive, dive, eat and sleep – repeat as necessary. I danced a few Salsas in flip flops. All the locals and the Cuban boat crew were delightful. While mostly in the water at the beautiful archipelago Jardines de la Reina; Camagüey and the road to the dock was the only land part of my trip, but it was all good. Tell me again, “Why is there this US embargo?”
BTW: How’s you Halloween costume doing?
October 3, 2017
Halloween is around the corner. Please let me know about venues that I may have missed (see “Watch For”). For costumes in the San Rafael area, I recommend D’lynn’s Dancewear and Belrose.
Do an internet search for “dança geométrica variable.” Not the dancing I do, but find it entertaining; a whole series is available:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6MpABTX4Rs
Non-dance, some random thoughts: Chris and I spent a long weekend in Burbank visiting with friends and touring Universal Studios.
Uber: Leaving the airport was the first time we ever used Uber – it exceeded our expectations, easy to use (gotta have a smartphone), inexpensive, fast pickup.
Tickets: AAA gives a 10% discount for Universal Studio tickets that gets the cost down to $95 each. The price is not all that bad if you spread it over the 9 hours spent there. Selected hotels offer “early in” tickets. IMHO: “Front of the Line” tickets (double the cost) are a waste in non-peak times. We went on a Friday and never waited in line for more than half an hour.
Universal Hollywood: Arrive early and you should see everything you want. We recommend the Studio Tour, WaterWorld show and Harry Potter. Take a wide-brimmed hat and wear sunscreen; and a disposable poncho in the winter. If you have the option, Universal in Orlando is much grander and offers more variety, requiring 2 days to see it all.
Lodging: We stayed nearby at the Garland. Both it and its highly rated Front Yard restaurant are decorated in retro 70s décor. Both are pricey – but everything is. A free shuttle to Universal is provided.
September 26, 2017
I’ve listed in "Venues" a plethora of dances spread over the next 14 days in the North Bay and beyond – hope you find something you like.
Swing aerials: Jim B. found this YouTube dance video with the Big Bopper singing “White Lightning.” https://youtu.be/Jml3gbT8gME
Don’t try this at home!
Rancho Nicasio seems to be the place I love to complain about. Among other things, it was once the poor service in the dining room – but that changed for the better. Now, Bob, the owner, has decided to shut down the main dining room on most Fridays and move the musicians into the bar area. He wants the atmosphere of cozy, crowded and alive, which he says a half-filled dining room can’t give. But now we have no place to dance. Bob says “It is quite all right to dance in the aisles and is frequently done.” This is fine for freestylers, but not for us. Believe me, we tried.
But I still recommend Rancho Nicasio. I’ve tried the new menu and as I recall, though minimal in choices, the food was great. The beautiful drive through the redwoods is half an hour from Highway 101. However be warned that real dancing is only in the main dining room. How do you tell? Mostly by whether you will pay a cover charge.
Last Friday night at Rancho Nicasio bar, the Beer Scouts played classic ’60s & ’70s classic rock, leaning to the heavy side. Half the songs could have been danced to WC Swing and maybe a few EC Swings – the rest were not danceable (aside from freestyle).
Frustrated by the lack of room to dance at Rancho Nicasio, we relocated to Trek Winery in downtown Novato, where Todos Santos played “Cantina Americana,” which was soft classic rock with alternative genres. With a glass of wine in a living room-type setting of couches and stuffed chairs, we could adapt some Rumbas to their music, plus we figured out how to do a Cha Cha and EC Swing to other songs on the concrete floor. We considered a Foxtrot and Polka, but foot traffic was a concern. If you like wine, music and an occasional dance, I say “Go.”
New to Wayne’s Window is the Milonguita and lesson at the Emeryville Senior Center, a weekly event, every Friday in the early afternoon (1pm class, 2pm Milonguita). Best of all, it is FREE.
September 19, 2017
This issue of Wayne’s Window contains 180 dances spread over the next two weeks in the greater North Bay (centered on San Rafael, and as far south as Oakland).
Shoe care: Use shoe oil (I’ve heard olive oil is a cheap substitute) to keep your shoes’ leather uppers in good condition. Over time, the leather dries out. Do this every year – six months preferably. Also, don’t wear the same shoes two days in a row – let them dry out. Shoetrees are a good idea.
Outside of my realm of dance, but maybe interesting to others, Tam Twirlers, in San Rafael, will be starting a new beginners’ class in modern Square Dancing. For more info:
http://www.tamtwirlers.org/
Halloween is approaching, so start planning your costume. Also, please let us know about any dance parties out there; I’ve already started the list in the “Watch for” section of Wayne’s Window.
News from the Front Line: Sarah Lee writes: “We were dancing at the Veterans Home yesterday and what a nice crowd they had! At least 40 dancers and quite a few onlookers. The floor is beautiful.
Danced at the Lighthouse Saturday night. The dance floor was awful - very sticky.”
Last Wednesday, I dropped in at the Corte Madera Community Center, for the Ray Simpson Band. I was delighted to find ladies who could dance well. Sadly, we were short on leaders – I didn’t sit out a single dance. Probably eight couples max’d the dance floor that night. It seems the band played a touch more Latin music. I’ll be back next month.
Chris and I were unable to dance Friday and Saturday; but, Sunday, did learn Bachata at Meng and Lucy’s Engagement Party at Dance Arts. Congratulations to a wonderful couple in the dance community.
September 12, 2017
‘found around 90 dances in the North Bay (and beyond) this week – keyboard is smokin’.
For me, an eye opening TED talk explores gender roles in dance:
https://www.ted.com/talks/trevor_copp_jeff_fox_ballroom_dance_that_breaks_gender_roles
Do you recall my raving review of the Speakeasy immersive show in San Francisco? They are offering a 2 for 1 ticket offer, the code is BROADWAY. Fine print: no dancing, only for tickets of $80 or more, and must purchase before 4:00pm Thursday, September 14.
While the cat’s away the mice will play – or something similar. Chris was in Chicago this weekend, leaving me with much free time. I managed to fit in five dances in three days – my calves are sore.
I’ve been mentioning the Veterans Home in Yountville for years – ‘bout time I see if myself. Luckily, one of Chris’ GFs could accompany me, because there was no women available for dance. The two of us were the kids in the room. There is a large hardwood floor surrounded by banquet tables. The dancers peaked around seven couples. The band was mostly brass, playing early jazz, ala Natural Gas Jazz Band, that was mostly Swing, though you Quicksteppers could have fun. The price was $10 with snacks available for purchase. Bottom line: Go, plus it’s a lovely drive.
Saturday, after the WnY dance party, I slipped over to the Presidio Yacht Club where Doc Kraft was playing mostly Swing. The dance floor was over crowded, but the dancers were well behaved, though I my elbows became very wide and my butt stuck out (I’m sure not a pretty sight) to protect my partners. BTW: I was delighted to meet there many friends of Wayne’s Window.
September 5, 2017
The oppressive heat last weekend and Chris’ broken toe negated any dance, though we did hang out with some avid Argentine Tango dancers. My roving reporter ears picked up some tidbits. Such as tangomango.org is more reliable than the venues’ own websites because the tangomango contributors are the hosts/instructors and don’t want any mistakes for fear of losing people. Thus, I’ve learned to glean info now from tangomango and have a skeptical eye at the venues web site. In addition, Marin’s Belrose Theater Milongas are every-other-week and will cease in November – Alma Del Tango will pick up the time slot.
East Bay Waltz in Berkeley is a new entry to these listings. The music promises to be: Waltz, Cross-step Waltz, Polka, Swing, Schottische, and Latin on the second Saturday of each month.
The Beat in Berkeley, besides having the Tango and Swing you see here, has many, many, diverse dances – it might be worth your checking out the schedule.
Are you in the market for some dance clothing or shoes? Dance Arts, in San Rafael, is selling new and used on Saturday September 9, from 2pm to 5pm. And, they will be giving FREE dance lessons, refreshments, and raffles in celebration of National Ballroom Dance Week. Call 415 459 1020 to reserve a space.
August 29, 2017
Posted in "Venues" is a long list of dances (some include lessons) in the North Bay and beyond. Using most word processors’ Search (Ctrl + F) command, you can search/sort you favorite venue or band. For example, simply highlight “Allegro” (without the quotes) then use the “Ctrl” (Cmd on Mac) plus “F” keys to see a list of every place Allegro is mentioned. Or, open Search with Ctrl + F, then type in the box “Allegro”. First you must Copy and Paste into your word processor.
Did you know Wayne teaches beginning computing once a month in San Rafael for the local computer club? The next class is on September 7 near the San Rafael library. Contact Wayne for details.
Heads up! A few regular venues are closed because of the Labor Day weekend.
We will be dropping in at the Sausalito Art Festival sometime this Labor Day Weekend. There will be multiple bands every day, though dancing by our standards is nil (e.g. lawn, freestyle & crowded).
Non-dance review: Check out Whipper Snapper in west San Rafael for a delightful lunch or dinner that's not standard fare: think “Caribbean Tapas.” The interior decoration continues the Caribbean-theme colors with lots of matching whimsical art. The owner (Bill Higgins) is also the chef. Ambient music suits Baby Boomers (some off-the-wall, such as Beatles’ music to a reggae beat). For years, the warm Spinach Salad, Fish Tacos, Mussels, and the Sangria stand out to us. Garden-like patio outdoor seating is in back. The staff has always been attentive and friendly. It is roughly eight minutes west off Highway 101 on 4th Street with plenty of free and metered street parking. This neighborhood treat will feed your belly and your soul.
August 22, 2017
We say “good bye” to “Dancing Under the Stars” at Jack London Square. The season wraps up Friday night with an 8:30pm Salsa lesson followed by a mix dance party.
Non-dance reviews: The Speakeasy (not to be confused with the Speakeasy at the Center for Sex & Culture) is a unique experience. Self-described as an “immersive theater” says it all. Great attention to detail with dozens of performers recreate a 1923 San Francisco speakeasy where alcohol and gambling are offered in this hidden lounge. Don’t let its subterranean location fool you – this is a classy gin-joint. I had expected this would be a lighter entertainment fare – wrong. Aside from the cabaret, little frivolity exists. From snitty showgirls to WWI veterans, we see into the souls of our grandparents’ generation.
We found four major sections of the Speakeasy: we were directed at first to the bar (“escorted” ticket), then moved through the casino to the cabaret, and then hung out in the parlor. A hidden door takes us into a secret room with a two-way mirror and speaker, allowing us to observe behind the scenes of a 1920s makeup/dressing room. Everywhere you wander, expect a show of some sort. A place for photos is said to exist, but we never saw it.
Precise details are down to the tin-tile ceiling and vintage cocktails (Chris had a “Corpse Reviver” and me, a “Vieux Carre”). Chris dressed to the “nines” with her flapper dress. This may or may not have been the reason she got a rare personal interaction with a performer. My guess is that over half of the guests did their best to costume up for the occasion.
I highly recommend it. If you go with a group, agree to breakup into couples and venture off on your own. It was a long show, a tad over 3 ½ hours – you get your money’s worth. We parked at the North Beach Garage, 745 Vallejo St. (the competitor across the street has poor reviews and may not be open that late). The parking garage is but two blocks away from the secret location. I can envision us going again – not this year, but later on. Check Goldstar.com for discounts.
In addition, this week we dropped by Albert’s Park in San Rafael for a semi-pro Pacifics vs. Pittsburg Diamonds’ baseball game. Covered bleacher seating, delectable hot dogs (I made an exception eating these – yummy!), beer and cornball-between-innings entertainment. Chris abhors sports, but insists we return again next season. The home team lost, but we still had a ball. Hurry if you are interested - the season is almost over.
August 15, 2017
Thursday, we were in Corte Madera for Circus Vargas. We arrived with low expectations and left with praise. Think of it as Cirque du Soleil – Lite. The circus will be in the Bay Area (San Jose to Petaluma) until September 18. The discount coupons abound – anyone is a fool if they pay rack rate. Email me if you want any tips, such as seating, cameras, etc. Otherwise: www.circusvargas.com
Saturday, was all dance and no lesson at WnY. Frank and Megan mixed up the music to suit everyone’s taste. Regretfully, the ratio of leaders to followers diminished, resulting with double the women to men. Thankfully, some very capable ladies were glad to lead. I kept busy that night.
Hats off to Sausalito Seahorse. It is sending pictures of lost articles of clothing to its email subscribers. Though not available on the web page, it is a commendable effort.
Please share if you have reports that would help our community. Others want to know the good (and the bad) places and dancing tips. Let me know if I may use your name.
I so hate anything negative, but I need to share honest opinions. Bruce was less than enchanted with Eagles Hall. In defense, our recent experience there was more positive when Hot Rod Juke Box played. Our gripe was that it was mostly Swing that hot evening.
“I went dancing at Eagles Hall last night. The venue was as I expected, having driven past this hall for many years. It was in decent shape for its age. Going inside took me back to the early 50's. It looked like they had a well stocked bar as we walked past it to get to the dance floor. Price of admission for non-members was $10 a person.
The floor was actually pretty big, but unfortunately sticky, anyone coming here should bring some powder for their shoes.
The crowd was not that friendly, in that for the most part, they were ultra-seniors (I figure the average age was 78, met one lady who was 94). Whoever comes here should have good floor craft skills since the seniors don’t move much.
Manny Gutierrez Quartet played traditional songs but severely lacked energy. It really didn’t make you want to jump up and dance. But then again this group is over 40 years old; they had much more pep when I first heard them in Pinole about 15 years ago. They were actually playing as a trio that night (one musician short, reason unknown).
We left before the raffle; tickets were 6 for $10. We lasted for 2 hours. We probably won’t go there again by ourselves, maybe with a group.” - Bruce
August 8, 2017
Guest instructor Colin James at Dance Arts made a point worth mentioning about turns: the man leads only the first half a turn; it is incumbent for the lady to finish the second half. Gentlemen, the hand circles in a small halo above her head and slightly less than the diameter of her head. I might add, “gentlemen,” be just that – be gentle, and do not “crank” the turn with your arm or aid with a push from your other hand.
I’ve added new venue: La Pena Cultural Center in Berkeley. It has a Salsa band and lesson on the last Monday of the month. Cost of $5 includes the lesson. Beer, wine, and food are available for cash. Thanks to Joyce for the tip. Further, she reports, “It was absolutely the best. The band is unique with terrific rhythms. Anyone who is a ‘salsalero’ would be in heaven. They start with classes ahead of the dance. The class space filled up and they cut admission to it before the dance.”
Novato has two beginner-intermediate dance (smooth, Latin, nightclub) lessons on Wednesdays. You may already know about WnY, but did you also know about Margaret Todd Center? Regrettably, both conflict by being on the same day. 5 one-hour classes are $66 to $76 (standard fare) at the center. Go to www.novatofun.org or visit the center.
Goldstar (https://www.goldstar.com) is a often referred to as a “bucket shop” or “ticket discounter.” Call it whatever you like – it is a money saver! Chris and I have used Goldstar for years, getting up to 50% off on big name venues (Beach Blanket Babylon, S.F. Giants, etc.) We just bought tickets to The Speakeasy – okay, it was only a 10% discount, but still the same, a savings. I suggest you check out the website every now and again.
August 1, 2017
Cat’s Corner has moved to the Swedish American Hall on Market near 16th.
Non-dance review:
“39 Steps” is a marvelous four-performer play at the Ross Valley Players’ Barn. Amusing, but never did laugh out loud. Almost slapstick. Lots of stage crafting and breaking of the 4th window. Be astonished when an actor plays two roles at simaltaniously. Included are many Easter Eggs of references to Alfred Hitchcock movies. Tickets are $22--show is worth it. Always good to support community theater, especially when it's fun.
Friday found us at the Hopmonk in the town of Sonoma (there are three Hopmonks). We are fans of surf music, so the band, Aqua Velvets, lured us to have dinner there. Hopmonk has the usual restaurant and bar plus an expansive courtyard and deck (fire pits and heaters when necessary). All areas had a considerable crowd this night.
The trio kept the amplification down, almost background music. If there had been dance space, we might have eked out some Rumbas and one East Coast Swing; but management chooses to fill the wood floor with tables. I suppose we could have danced outside on the deck. The defined entertainment area had 9 tables that could seat up to 30. At peak, fewer than half the tables were occupied. There was no cover charge, yet the tipping was abysmal – five of us tipped during the first set. Is it too much to cough up $5 each?
Back to the restaurant, we ordered Calamari, Pulled Pork Sliders and Mussels with Fries. The food was bland but eatable. Service was timely and courteous. Entrance and parking is in the rear. Due to the lack of dance floor, future events won’t be listed here.
Saturday night, the 7th Sons packed the house at the Lighthouse in Strawberry. The band self-describes their music as “Hippie,” in other words, rock of the ’60s and ’70s (sorry, no In A Gadda Da Vida). While we lasted through the first set, the dance floor was full, but not overflowing. Freestylers were at a minimum. My partners and I danced mostly Night Club 2-Step and West Coast Swing; while one couple did a magnificent Argentine Tango to the same music. One song we danced East Coast Swing and two others we forced a Cha Cha and Rumba.
I suggest you put the combination of Lighthouse plus 7th Sons on your “To Do” list. We were all pleased with our food and service. Now if only they would re-pad the dining room chairs …
Sonoma County Fair is August 3 through 13. Here is a schedule of the bands:
Thursday – August 3: The Marshall Tucker Band** at 7:30 pm
Friday – August 4: Guerro de Grupos at 7:00 pm
Saturday – August 5: Life in the Fast Lane: Eagles Tribute at 7:30 pm
Sunday – August 6: Graciela Beltran at 7:30 pm
Monday – August 7: Lauren Alaina** at 7:30 pm
Tuesday – August 8: Foghat** at 7:30 pm
Wednesday – August 9: WAR** at 7:30 pm
Thursday – August 10: The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute** at 7:30 pm
Friday – August 11: Batalla de Bandas at 7:00 pm
Saturday – August 12: Trent Harmon** at 7:30 pm
Sunday – August 13: Banda Machos at 7:30 pm
**Limited number of optional concert and dinner packages available.
Optional Dinner Package $60
includes Fair admission, dinner & reserved concert seat
Optional Concert Package $32
includes Fair admission & reserved concert seat
Bands on several stages as well – see Fair Schedule
http://www.sonomacountyfair.com/fair/sonoma-county-fair.php
Thanks for the list goes to So Co Dance Beat (http://socodancebeat.com). What makes this Sonoma County website unique is it is starting to describe the dance floors at different venues.
July 25, 2017
I guess you are helping to spread the word, my website, www.wayneswindow.com, is getting more and more attention with every week – keep up the good work. Reminder, this is all non-profit – I’m retired and want to give back to the dance community.
Part 2: Mill Valley Community Center vs. Corte Madera Community Center
Some of these comments may apply to other places that you dance at. “Thank you” to those who responded to my query (see below) “Why are there more people at Mill Valley Community Center compared to Corte Madera Community Center?” My perceived order of answers in importance:
The band: The Starduster Orchestra is more in tune to playing to the dancers, by mixing up with an expanded variety of music. The Ray Simpson Band received complaints about too many “traveling dances,” which can be wearing. Lack of Latin dances was noted. I’m sure Nightclub, besides EC Swing (WC Swing, Hustle, NC 2-Step, etc.), would be appreciated too. A few noted the professional attire of Starduster. More than a few mentioned the quality of music was better with Starduster. In defense, technically, Ray Simpson is having a practice session when we attend.
I ask, “How hard is it to plan and map out the songs?” People of Note at the Margaret Todd Center, hands out a printed list with recommended type of dance.
Floor: Obviously the artificial wood floor won out over the concrete floor at Corte Madera. Concrete is not conducive to experienced dancers. When I pointed out that Sausalito Seahorse has a brick floor and it is busy, the response was that the social bar/restaurant setting makes up for it.
Ambiance: All gave the nod to Mill Valley’s room being more airy and open. Someone actually called Corte Madera’s “oppressive,” which I feel is too strong, but we all have our opinions.
Band breaks: The wisdom of playing recorded dance music during “half time” at MV, keeps the dancers’ energy engaged. Historically, people go home during a band’s break. It was noted that a few bar bands at other venues play straight through 2 hours just to keep the room full.
Tables and seating: Never an issue to me, since I seldom sit down and consider tables as something that takes up floor space. But some appreciate the aura a table creates as a place to socialize. Mill Valley and Ashkenaz are the only non-restaurant/bar that has tables that I know of (Bay West was appreciated the few times they did it). Chairs lined up around the perimeter are practical, but stark.
Promotion: Starduster self-promotes and has a few loyal fans who further promote it. Heaven knows that all community centers fail to promote dances on the websites – I’m speaking to those all over Northern California! I’m challenged to find a community center website where I can type in “dance” and easily find something close to what we seek.
Dancers: Unanimously, I heard about the abundance of good quality dancers at Mill Valley. The same people apologized for sounding snooty, but qualified it by saying good dancers attract others.
Cost: Was never mentioned, aside from the cheap tipping at Mill Valley (and elsewhere).
Parking, location, time and snacks: None mentioned.
Anymore comments? I’ll be glad to consider posting them (anonymously?) here.
July 18, 2017
Bad news for the USS Hornet. The Fourth of July event was to be one of its big fundraisers and instead it sank with a loss of about $40,000 because of a power outage over the west side of the island. Things were just starting to roll, when at 3:30pm the electricity went out for about 5 hours. Donations are being sought because the organization had already paid upfront for the entertainment, equipment, etc.
Last week, the Ray Simpson Band played to just over a dozen attendees at the Corte Madera Community Center. I’m at a loss as to why the Starduster Orchestra packs in a crowd (around 100) at Mill Valley Community Center with a fee and Ray Simpson does not and is free.
The pluses and minuses are:
Cost: Mill Valley is $10 (plus tip), Corte Madera is free
Floor: Mill Valley wins with a artificial wood rec room floor, over the CM concrete floor
Time: MV starts at 7:30pm on a Tuesday, CM starts at 8:00pm on a Wednesday
Music: IMHO: MV has the slightly better band – both have roughly 16 members
Half time: MV has recorded dance music during the band’s break
Seating: MV has chairs and tables, CM just chairs (tables take up space)
Snacks: MV has slightly less variety and quantity than CM
Parking: Both have free parking; MV has more spaces
Location: Both are about the same distance from Hwy 101 in Southern Marin
Frequency: Starduster plays 10 times a year, Ray Simpson plays 11
So, as you see by my analysis and personal opinion, Mill Valley is the better venue, but not that much, which, in my mind, doesn’t account for the large disparity in turnout. Is the concrete floor just that bad? I’d love to hear your opinion.
BTW: both bands are now on Summer break and will return in September.
July 11, 2017
Chris and I were in the Big Easy last week. We were able to eek out a Hustle – once, and that is all the dancing we did. No, that’s not true! At the luggage area at the Oakland Airport, frequently heard is a gentleman in 1910s attire (straw hat and all) playing a keyboard. While waiting at the carousel, we did an East Coast Swing.
Stompy Jones is no longer playing at Lake Merritt Dance Center. Fans of the band can find them next at Rancho Nicasio July 28. Did any one see them on the USS Hornet Independence Day?
While on the subject of Lake Merritt Dance Center, the listings for dances on the web page has been drastically reduced.
Presidio Yacht Club has no listings on its web page for music, though I know the Lonestar Retrobates play there every second Sunday of the month.
Remember, there are no dances this month at either the Margaret Todd Center or Mill Valley Community Center.
July 4, 2017
Correction: Manny Gutierrez has NOT been performing for “a good forty years.” Toni writes, “This year he will have been playing 63 years.”
Dear Ladies...Chris, Wayne's wife here. Some lady friends were lamenting the lack of dance partner requests. I'd like to make some suggestions: “Lady in Red” is more than a good Night Club Two-Step song. It is also a way to produce a dance request. The other evening at the Mill Valley dance, I realized that across the room and through the crowd, a seated lady stood out – solely because she wore red. This made me think of other tips besides being visible beyond bright colors:
Wear dance shoes, many men notice the purpose – not so much the design or style.
Show you can dance—Don't sit out dances early. Once the gentlemen can see you dancing they will notice your style and will come clamoring for it. (Wayne says this matters a lot and really works.)
If sitting, show interest in the music, tap your foot, sway; show you feel the music.
Stand up and be near the perimeter of the dance.
Smile.
Ask for a dance. This is the 21st century.
Back to Wayne …
In reviewing the Lake Merritt Dance Center website, I’m sorry to report many of the dances have been dropped (Tangos, Tea Dance, Ballroom, etc.), the website calendar has few listings.
Allegro has dropped the Bachata practice on Wednesdays.
Presidio Yacht Club’s website is void of bands; though I suspect some weekend activity, such as the Lonestar Retrobates, who play on the second Sunday of each month – which, by the way, is a pretty good band, playing at one of my favorite dive bars.
Balancoire (S.F) is abruptly closing for renovation and restructuring. Cats Corner will find a new location for the July 19 dance. I’ve not yet heard from the Ra Milonga people.
More bad news, the Fenix website is down, so no postings about them in Wayne’s Window.
Will it ever end?! Shades of Blue website is down. Please confirm before going out.
Reminder: No dances in July or August at the Mill Valley Community Center and the Margaret Todd Center.
Here is a ray of sunshine: The Flamingo Lounge (Santa Rosa) has added a Thursday Salsa & Bachata lessons and dance.
June 27, 2017
If you know of any venues that I should consider, please pass them along, and/or have them contact me. Contact info is available at the "Contact Me" tab on the far right above.
Tuesday, over 100 dancers and listeners filled the Mill Valley Community Center for one last dance before the Starduster Orchestra takes their summer break. Everything was “right.”
Friday, Chris (being in Chicago) loaned me one of her girlfriends and we dropped in at Dance Arts for the Quick Step workshop. Christian and Jamie taught it well to a group just large enough that we didn’t crash into each other. We stuck around for the general dance, then left early to another venue.
Field report: Dance Arts is a Marin icon, over 30 years of teaching dance in San Rafael. Lessons throughout the week are so varied in type and level. Free parking is abundant.
Later that same night, we were at the Sausalito Seahorse listening to the 7th Sons. We adapted to the 60’s and 70’s rock, using EC & WC Swing and Latin dance. More than half the crowd were freestylers. We had enough room to do tight patterns.
Field report: I’ve become a fan of the 7th Sons trio. They play the music I grew up with to near perfection. I’ve never been disappointed in their sound. Expect the dance crowd to be weighted in freestyle. Sausalito Seahorse has a brick floor that is surprisingly danceable. The food is “good” and service is “bareable.” There is free congested street parking, but I’ve been lucky finding a space in the lot hidden behind the restaurant.
Cream’s “Sunshine of Your Love” is a Cha Cha?! Desperate to have at least one dance, I found an agreeable lady, we made it a Cha Cha Saturday night at the Sausalito Seahorse. The sextet, MarInfidels, were playing 70’s rock, and virtually everyone was freestyling, and if you know me, I look like a spastic monkey when I try.
Field report: MarInfidels (get it? Marin + fidels) is a “good” band if you like 70’s rock, but expect a freestyle crowd.
Earlier that night, I dropped in at the Lighthouse (Strawberry/Mill Valley). I had only seen Doc Kraft once, in concert, a long time ago at Dunphy Park. The five of them started out flat, the men singing were weak and the musicality was only slightly better. After the opening four sounds, I was asking myself why this band had a known dedicated following. On the sixth number, the female vocalist joined them. They rose to life. She set a spark to the music, and they took off. Soon dancers filled the floor (mostly freestyle) and the band seemingly feed off them and got even livelier.
Field report: Doc Kraft plays the oldies that one can do East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing and Night Club 2-Step. Expect the majority of the dancers to be freestylers. The Lighthouse is about 5 minutes east off Hwy 101 with a view of a cove in Richardson Bay. I’ve always been happy with the food and service. There is no cover charge, so please be extra generous tipping the bands. Parking is free and abundant.
Sunday, solo, I started with a visit to the San Rafael Community Center where the Manny Gutierrez Quartet plays on the last Sunday of every month. This is a Goldenaires event, so it comes as no surprise that the average age is in the mid-seventies. Manny plays a wide variety of music but seems to favor the Foxtrot. $10 gets you in, and there are enough goodies and snacks to make a meal. Free parking on the lot.
Field report: Manny has been playing a good forty years and has a rigid play list for the dance crowd. Expect a little of everything, including a Line Dance and Polka.
After that, I drove south east to Livermore (without traffic it is 1 hour from San Rafael) to the Castle Rock Restaurant. The Take Two duo out did some quartets in versatility and quality. Since the dance floor was a medium-long rectangle, traveling dances were difficult and the band realized it by keeping the majority of dances stationary. There were lots of East Coast Swing, Rumba, Cha Cha, etc., with a smattering of Foxtrot and one Waltz. I joined the table of Joallyn Bohn’s students. She is an instructor at Two Left Feet (Danville). She and her students socialize outside of the studio. I found this concept refreshing and delightful, or maybe it was the friendliness of the people that made it so fun. I would encourage instructors to consider following suit.
Field report: Drive time is the deal breaker, but in reality not much further from San Rafael than it is to Napa or Santa Rosa. The duo, Take Two, gave a solid, flawless performance deserving more than the $8 entry fee. Castle Rock food was “good,” service was “very good.” It also has a full bar. Free parking in the lot.
June 20, 2017
Last Thursday night Chris and I dropped in at 19 Broadway to see Kool Whip, whose name I’ve been seeing for quite a while, and here was a chance to see them without a cover charge. The quartet plus a talented female singer played classic rock: Journey, Led Zeppelin, Bee Gees, etc. The 15’ x 20’ x 25’ triangle dance floor had only 2-3 freestylers making it was near empty this night, allowing us to get in a Cha Cha, EC & WC Swing and a Hustle. Over half the music was best danced to by freestyle.
Saturday we checked out Eagle’s Hall in El Cerrito. Without much traffic it was less than a 20-minute drive from San Rafael. The layout reminded me of the Santa Rosa Moose, what with a (non-air conditioned) hall with wood dance floor, separate bar and kitchen (no food was served this night). I saw a dozen couples or more dancing with comfortable space (more room could be gained by moving/removing tables). A pitcher of cold water was always available on this hot evening, and adult beverages were available for purchase at the bar in the other section. The six-member band Hot Rod Jukebox played mostly 50’s rock. Virtually all the songs were East Coast Swing/Lindy. A few songs slowed down enough for a West Coast Swing; no Cha Cha, Rumba, etc. The music was great, though singing was not their strongest suit. I say a “GO” for the oldies and Swing. It is easy to get to and offers lots of free parking.
Sunday, we drove (45 minutes from San Rafael) norht to Jack London State Park to see over two hours of Broadway Under the Stars, a non-dance event. My advice: go see it! It runs through July 2. I recommend Premium Seating for the better seat cushions and preferred parking. Even with preferred parking, we skipped out during the last number; I suspect those who used the shuttle may have had a long wait. Wine and food is sold there (save $2 and bring your own plastic cup). Other shows by this troop will also play at the Winery Ruins.
June 13, 2017
Two bands are taking Summer vacation from their Marin venues. In other words, dance this month, because they won’t be back until September. Starduster Orchestra at the Mill Valley Community Center and People of Note at the Margaret Todd Center.
Ray Simpson Band at the Corte Madera Community Center plays in July, but will take August off.
From the trenches: Jon recommends the Oaktown Strutters as a band to watch for. He saw them at the Terrace Room in Oakland. He liked how this NEW band focused on the dancers. As I’ve reported previously, I like the ambiance and food there and never had a problem finding free street parking within two or three blocks.
Michael and Phia went to Temple of Israel in Alameda to dance to Dave’s Swingtime Big Band (4th Monday of each month). They liked the band and dance floor plus the location was not difficult to find. The report is that the place was almost empty. Sounds to me as a great opportunity to dance without having to worry about being bumped into.
No dancing: but this caught my eye. Throughout August, in the Napa Valley, classical music will be performed at various vineyards. http://www.musicinthevineyards.org/
“The Summer of Love Experience: Art, Fashion and Rock & Roll” is an exhibit at the de Young Museum through August 18 (free the first Tuesday of every month). http://deyoung.famsf.org/
In the same vein, at the California Historical Society at 678 Mission in S.F, is similar exhibit through September. https://californiahistoricalsociety.org/exhibitions/summer_of_love/
While I’m on a roll … Broadway Under the Stars at Jack London State Park (Sonoma) is where we’ll be Sunday. https://transcendencetheatre.org/broadway-under-the-stars/
June 6, 2017
Montreal Swing Riot is a dance event that promotes Lindy Hop, good swinging jazz and street culture.
Thanks to Mary DeLave for finding “Swing Riot Invitational Battle Part 3” when Lindy Hoppers dance to Hip Hop and Street dancers Break dance to Swing music.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7O6kPEPOoaE&ab_channel=montrealswingriot
Word of the day: “bailongo” Spanish adjective for “dance.” e.g. musica bailongo: music for dancing or music you can dance to. I found “bailongo” being used on web pages for Argentine Tango.
Speaking of Tango, I’ve found a few more Practicás and Milongas to add to my list.
May 31, 2017
Dancing on cruise ships is great for the ego. Chris and I just spent two weeks on the Aegean Odyssey, a small 350 passenger cruise ship with an equally small 8 x 20 oval dance floor. Not a problem – we were the only ones consistently on the dance floor. Those who know me know I’m a good Bronze dancer; well-let-me-tell-you, our fellow passengers were complementing us to high Heaven, even asking if we are pros (ha-ha). Chris and I kept telling them “You should see our friends back home!” We’ve experienced the same on other ships in the past.
Attached are two weeks of dances I’m aware of in the North Bay and beyond. Use caution, I’m writing this with serious jet-lag – please double-check for accuracy.
While failing my research on free “Friday Nights at the de Young,” I did come across a wonderful web site listing all types of free events in the Bay Area: sf.funcheap.com
I’m sure the Presidio Yacht Club is having music, but the website is void of any listings.
Follow up about Servino in Tiburon: management moves tables (like Sausalito Seahorse) to accommodate the dancers. The last dance had room enough for 6 to 7 couples doing Swing.
May 9, 2017
Do me/us a favor, help pruf-read my venue list. If you find a misspelling or wrong price or especially a wrong time – get back to me so I can tell the others. Waynes_Window@comcast.net
Another long list this week – over 300 venues. Yup, Wayne is going on another trip. The next Wayne’s Window won’t be until the end of the month.
Looking at Allegro’s schedule, I see they are slipping in some live music for certain dance parties. I’ll note all live music in italics.
A favorite of mine, the Presidio Yacht Club, has a website that drives me bonkers. It is often out-of-date or no listings. When bands are listed, there is no mention of genre. Thursday nights have evaporated – Maria has not been sending out emails or posting on the site.
A new venue in Marin have been added: Servino in Tiburon, I’m told has a dance floor for 18 to 20 dancers.
This looks like a deal! The Belrose Theater is having on the second Wednesday of the month (May 10) an $8 dinner and Ragtime Band with “dance if you like.” I won’t be able to make it, but could someone check it out and report back? Thanks.
We welcome to these pages, SoCo Tango. This Argentine Tango Club has Practicás and Milongas in Santa Rosa near the JC at the Odd Fellows Hall.
Flamingo Lounge has added Bachata lessons and dance on Thursdays. Lessons start at 7pm, open dancing starts at 9pm. $10 cover charge includes lessons and dancing.
No dancing at Ghiringhelli Pizzeria, but fun to listen to is the Natural Gas Jazz Band. They usually play the second Sunday of each month in the afternoon.
May 2, 2017
Margaret Todd Center (Novato Parks and Recreation) is teaching beginning ballroom dance on Wednesday nights. This Fall, they will also offer Tap on Tuesdays. While on the subject of Margaret Todd Center, we attended the Tuesday monthly dance. It is in central Novato, about 5 minutes off Hwy. 101. The wood dance rec. room floor could easily handle 20 couples or more, but this evening, 5 couples were the most on the dance floor at any one time. Oh, there were more people, but well over half the attendees sat while enjoying the cookies and coffee. 50% of the music played by People of Note was Foxtrot, some Waltzes, a couple of Swing tunes, one Tango, a couple Rumba/Bolero and a Samba. As mentioned before, each table has a much appreciated song list with the suggested type of dance.
I am tickled to find another dance studio in Marin, BodyVibe Studio. Many of you may know Andrea Nelson-Novak (formally Bay West), who teaches there on Tuesday nights. In conjunction with Suzie’s Studio, there will be First Friday dance parties at BodyVibe.
Besides having their own, the two studios have a joint website. The Marin Calendar is comprehensive in listing Marin (including competitors’) beginner/intermediate dance lessons, plus a few dance parties. I suggest you bookmark: http://www.comedancemarin.com
While on the subject of studios, I’ve added one in Petaluma to the Learn portion of my website: www.wayneswindow.com. Say “hi” to Helen Andrade’s Steppin’ Out Dance; at this time it is lessons only – no practice sessions nor parties.
Last Saturday, Chris and I dropped in at the Lighthouse Bar & Grill on Strawberry Point (Mill Valley) to listen to Sweet City Blues (formerly The Full Tilt Band). The danceable, kicky band drew in many followers, plus a regular crowd and the place was near full. Yet, the talented dancers didn’t crowd, allowing upward of 10 couples on the small dance floor (a little overflow onto the adjacent slate floor). Sweet City Blues churned out mostly Swing with a few Latin and Night Club 2-Step numbers while we were there. It was my pleasure to dance with half-a-dozen guests. Ladies, if you see me, come over, say “hi” and let me know if you’d like to dance – Chris doesn’t bite, unless you like that sort of thing.
Bands do feed off the energy of the crowd. Have you ever spoken in front of a group and felt the vitality (or lack of)? Same thing. I spoke with one of the singers who has performed at the Mill Valley Community Center. The singer’s attitude is “There are better places to perform.” This is solely because of lack of applause from the dancers – not the cheap tipping. Think about it.
The Starduster Orchestra plays tonight (Tuesday) at the Mill Valley Community Center. In my opinion, this THE premiere venue for couples dancing in the North Bay. We hope to see you there.
We welcome Starling Bar in the town of Sonoma, to Wayne’s Window. Per our friends, Sonoma County Dance Beat (http://socodancebeat.com) it has a stage with small dance floor. The band list looks promising. For now, there are no cover charges. Speaking of the town of Sonoma … what ever happened to the Sonoma Speakeasy? It is/was a nice little bar off the Square. If you know anything, drop me a line.
Remember WnY? A while back, they moved the West Coast Swing lessons and dance to Tuesdays at Dance Arts in San Rafael. I dropped in for both of Yenni’s Technique Class and the Beyond Basics Class. She is an excellent teacher, which means she could get through my thick skull and make my feet move in the right direction. At 8:30pm the main dance floor has Open (WC Swing) Dancing. I stayed just long enough to witness a large, focused crowd show up to dance until midnight.
Because of Memorial Day, I’ve verified the last Monday of the month dance at Temple Israel of Alameda featuring Dave’s Swingtime Big Band. If you haven’t experienced the dance venue, then you-are-overdue! For $5 you enjoy 16 professional musicians (from what I’ve heard, there is a waiting list to join the band) having a 2-hour jam session of ballroom, nightclub, and Latin.
Traffic: I recently enrolled for WC Swing lessons at Allegro. Kelly Casanova is a remarkable instructor. I don’t post here in Wayne’s Window because no 60-minute practice session is included. By the way, she teaches in the North Bay in at least three locations I know of, see:
http://www.nextgenswingdance.com/
and/or:
www.resdc.org
There was a point here about “traffic,” oh … no sooner than the San Rafael/Richmond Bridge traffic was improved with the third lane opened on the lower deck – then the upper deck needed patch-repairs. So the westbound traffic is reduced to just one lane at 9pm to 5am. Supposedly the work will be done by month’s end (Caltrans said it – not me).
CAUTION: A band has emerged titled “Sweet City,” which is not the North Bay favorite Sweet City Blues. You have been warned.
May 14, 2019
Here are almost 200 dance venues I have found for you in the North Bay Area and beyond. Please look it over and if you have any corrections or additions, I’d be delighted to hear from you. Do realize that Wayne’s Window caters to dances/practices, not lessons, though many of the dances have lessons tacked on.
Nightclub Two-Step works well with much of the Jefferson’s Starship music. Wednesday we had a Woodstock flashback at the Marin Center where Big Brother and the Holding Company and Jefferson Starship entertained us for 2 ½ hours. Surprisingly a couple of original band members are still playing. Unexpectedly, the music was not excessively loud and the scent of patchouli oil evaporated early from the aged tie-dyed clothes of graying hippies.
What could be more beautiful than a drive through the Irish green hill of West Marin and Sonoma? Gas up your car and take a tour before the hills turn golden. It is truly amazing that within 15 minutes west of jam-packed Highway 101, you find yourself often the only car on the road. Sunday afternoon we meandered along Bodega Highway to State Route 1 to the Dance Palace in Pt. Reyes (BTW: locals pronounce the town to rhyme with “rays”), to hear the 24-member strong the Albany Jazz Band playing Ballroom, Nightclub, with a touch of Latin for two hours. I was impressed with the layout of the room, acoustics, and the high-quality oak floor. The audience of three dozen saw only four couples dancing most of the afternoon (a few free-stylers joined in occasionally). It is a shame that the Dance Palace has so few dances and is an hour’s drive from Highway 101. As I understand it, The Albany Jazz Band plays but a handful of times each year. The good news is, the rest of the gigs will be in the East Bay. The bad news is most of these will be performances not dances.
May 7, 2019
This week I've discoveded nearly 200 dance venues for the next two weeks in the North Bay Area and beyond. These include Ballroom, Nightclub, Latin, and Tango (different people place tango into various categories – you decide).
Friday night a group of us descended upon the Lighthouse Bar & Grill located on the Strawberry Peninsula in Mill Valley, where the five-member SwingSet band played. Much of the music was West and East Coast Swing and Latin. The dance floor was sticky, but a sock over one shoe helped some of our ladies. We enjoyed our meals and appreciated the service staff. SwingSet is a newly formed band with some minor growing pains. When they play there again June 29, they promise to reduce the length of the songs and incorporate Tango and Waltz.
I am shocked at the dearth of dance studio ballroom dance parties in the North Bay. The regularly scheduled dances at Body Vibe (S. Rafael), Dance Arts (S. Rafael), and The Ballroom (Rht. Park) have vaporized. I hope this loss is only temporary. I do note that Dance Arts will host two dance parties in June. I phoned Arthur Murray in San Rafael to inquire about dance parties. They do have dance parties but want to sell lessons to attend. Their business model does not suit my tastes. For a typical regular weekly-night ballroom dance party that suits me, I’m looking at either Monroe Hall or Allegro.
Tonight, Tuesday, Chris and I are not dancing but rather having a Woodstock flashback by attending the concert at Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium where Jefferson Starship and Big Brother and the Holding Company are performing. Many cheap seats are still available plus a few premium seats can be had – if you act quickly. Bring ear plugs!
Come Dance Marin, one of our invaluable resources for dance information has changed its web address to: www.comedancemarin.org
I did NOT include "What's Hot" in the email newsletter, you must come here to see my recommendations (your tasted may vary).
May 1, 2019
Still traveling, this time Jamaica. Learned some Salsa while away.
Cafe Claude in San Francico web site is down.
April 16, 2019
Just got back from a long overseas' trip. Did not have time to gather news.
March 11, 2019
Expect to hear from me next around mid-April, as I’ll be out of commission for a while. I must emphasize that many of the future venues were vague when I researched them – proceed with caution and verify.
March 5, 2019
Nothing to report.
February 26, 2019
No news to report
February 19, 2019
Posted in "venues" is a list of dances over the next two weeks in the North Bay and beyond. Due to minor hand surgery I’ve been unable to dance or type, so I have been using voice recognition software and the rest I’m doing single-handedly (sorry about the pun).
Recently, we ate and danced at the Lighthouse Bar & Grill. Void Where Prohibited has a new guitarist who has quickly fit in, playing and singing songs from the ’60s & ’70s. We’ve learned to hit the (tile) dance floor with the first song, because one never knows when the alcohol gives false talent to the freestylers. A wonderful time was had by three or four couples dancing EC & WC Swing, Rumba (early Beatles’ ballads), Cha Cha (early Stones), and NC 2-Step. Our meals were well prepared; service was attentive – even with a packed house. Early into the band’s second set the freestylers packed the floor – we left.
During the band’s break, Chris mingled among the tables with the Tip Bucket. Some were generous ($10 apiece), others … not so. One customer presented a $5 dollar bill and asked for $4 back! (This band has no cover charge.)
A heartfelt “thanks” to readers submitting field reports, allowing me to give you some current news.
Monday nights Fil Lorenz Orchestra at Local Edition:
Another inside scoop for ya: Sara and I went to this recently and found out it’s not a dance band nor a dance event. In fact, they bring the band podiums down onto the already-tiny floor so there’s little room to boogie. As for the music? Think more movie score than big band swing. The band is definitely big and loud, but they play almost nothing that can be danced to. I talked to Fil about this and while he does play in dance bands, he said Monday is “the musician’s night to shine” and that the music is for “them” and not for “us” (dancers). – Chris
and another from “Anonymous”:
The Napa Ballroom Dancers met at the Native Sons Hall Feb 9th. The second floor sports a 20-foot ceiling in an early 20th Century architecture with a ‘domed’ danced floor (the wooden dance floor dips toward the edges of the room like the deck of a ship). There were 70-80 active dancers, many familiar faces. After an introductory lesson in Samba, Line Dances in that rhythm proved popular with the dancers, particularly the ones who came in Mardi Gras masks and beads. There were also impromptu Line Dances for Hustle and Cha-Cha rhythms. Available at the refreshment bar was wine and soft drinks plus free popcorn and Valentine cookies. This dance relocated temporarily because of earthquake retrofit work at the Jefferson Street Senior Center. It’ll stay in this older hall through June, returning to Jefferson Street facility in July. Admission was $15 for top notch DJ Steve Luther. Their March 9th dance, which opens at 7pm, will feature live music at 7:45pm from the J Silverheels Band, also at $15 admission.
More “field reports” from readers/dancers would be greatly appreciated, especially until I get the bandages off.
The picture is of Alameda's Elk's Lodge (PEERS') dance floor.
February 11, 2019
This week we have an extended 3-week version of Wayne’s Window. I’d appreciate it if you would view "Venues" and proofread it and submit corrections/omissions.
There seems to be confusion about the next Body Vibe dance party. Megan Smith wrote that it is on the 23rd (NOT this Saturday).
I’m dropping Blues dancing at the Beat in Berkeley due to lack of current information. A developing practice is occurring of using Facebook in lieu of a dedicated web page. So far, my experiences with this format has been disappointing, mostly due to the lack of current information.
Saturday’s Next Generation Swing Dance has moved from Allegro to Two Left Feet in in Danville. More changes at Allegro are in the works in March – stay tuned; check its website, and I’ll let you know in my next newsletter.
Looking ahead, a big Lindy event happens in Oakland Feb. 22 – 24 at Lake Merritt Dance Center. Swinging at the Savoy will have classes/workshops, practices, dances, live music, late night DJ dances. Go to: https://swinginatthesavoy.com
The “Find” command: Ctrl + F is your friend on a PC (Cmd + F on a Mac). Open my attachment. Using MS Word or similar, type Ctrl+F, a box will appear on the upper left. Enter what you are interested in, eg: venue, type of dance, or my basterdized city abbreviation. You will get a list. You do have to be exact, but case sensitive does not matter. Highlighting a word then Ctrl+F will work too. What is really cool, this command works on some web browsers! How often have you “Googled” for a subject, gone to a site, and can’t find what you want? I know I have. Try Ctrl+F! If you have trouble with this, drop me a line.
Wendy vents:
“Dancers who haven’t been to one of the Presidio-sponsored dance events should be alerted to the fact that, since it is open to the public, many millennial “clubbers” show up and spend the evening standing and bobbing in place on the crowded dance area while they slosh their drinks on the dance floor. I’ve submitted feedback to the organizers about this several years in a row … I explained at length what the problem was and the safety hazard it posed… and they appear to have no interest in monitoring or preventing it. Shame, too, since it’s a beautiful surrounding and they let it be treated that way. I stopped going because it was so aggravating.”
I fully agree with Wendy. The “sloshing dancers” are appearing everywhere, from the Presidio Yacht Club to the Tonga Room. I’ve had modest success dropping the phrase “slip and fall” to management. This is another reason why I recommend hitting the club dance floor as-soon-as-the-music-starts – you don’t know how many dances you’ll get in before the “sloshers” ascend and I sit down.
February 5, 2019
This week readers contribute:
“… I saw Bob Gutierrez multiple times in 2018. (Napa, Rossmoor a few times, and Diablo) My experience was that you never knew which musicians would be with him, so it was not always the same. Sometimes good, and sometimes so-so...”
Another reader writes: “Finley Friday (Santa Rosa) afternoons: This will be my 3rd week in a row. The floor is in excellent condition. The music varies by artist, but there is a good blend of swing, waltz, nc2step, tango, foxtrot, rumba, etc. There is enough room to negotiate the dance floor with some floor crafting. Manny Gutierrez played last Friday. He is one of the better artists. They are always short on leaders. There are some very experienced dancers there.”
“Steve Luther was DJing the music at Finley. He plays music there on the 5th Friday of the month. He played a nice variety of danceable music. There were about 50 people dancing there, with typically about 24 - 30 on the dance floor at any time. Some songs cleared the chairs and crowded the floor, but it was all very manageable. The floor is in good shape. The dancers were having fun, and there was a nice range of experience. As usual, we were short on leaders, but not overwhelming so. The age group was quite mature. I am one of the younger dancers there. Costco cookies served at the 1st break. Yummy”
Yet another reader writes: "On another subject, I followed your link to Breakaway (Oakland) yesterday and did attend the 30-min "taster class" and then danced to Hot Baked Goods. The instructors (Kathy and Greg) said that the patterns taught in the "taster class" vary from week-to-week. So, even if just taking those abbreviated classes for a month, one can assemble a significant repertoire for the dance. Admission to the 30 minute classes is included with the cost of admission to the dance. But wait, there's more! First timers receive a free pass for one DJ dance … beginning about 9. A very well attended dance, a rather young crowd, but definitely a wide range of ages. In February, their regular one-hour Level 1 classes on Tuesday evenings at 8 will cover the basics of "Swinging Charleston." There are higher level classes, too … At 9 pm, there is a DJ dance, but the last Tuesday of the month features a live band."
Back to my Window: Officially, Ashkenaz in Berkeley still has “4th Saturday Swing” – but in name only. Live music will be there, but I’m finding bands that play music other than Swing.
Saturday, we visited the Elks Lodge in Alameda for the PEERS’ dance. Sara & Swingtime played an array of music. PEERS favors Waltz, but this night Swing was featured – almost half the dances were Swing-friendly. There were vintage costumes galore. I did not count the dancers, but the floor size was substantial (see picture) and usually full. Parking in the rear is limited. We parked two blocks away – and consider ourselves lucky. More followers than leaders was the norm here too. It was rather embarrassing that the bandleader had to request applause – more than once.
I’ve got to laugh. I invited a gal in 1930s/’40s period correct British attire to a “waltz.” She was strictly in character. Her English Reel clashed with my American Smooth, leaving me to eventually acquiesce to her “style.”
January 29, 2019
Thursday we had a new discovery in the City –Pagan Idol, the best Tiki bar we’ve seen anywhere (BTW: Waikiki no longer has any Tiki bars). That night we saw Project: Pimento, our favorite local band. Lead is NOT played on a guitar, but rather a theremin (radio waves!). On the tiled small dance floor, one or two couples (four might fit) could dance easily though having to avoid revelers encroaching the space. Project: Pimento played an array of “lounge lizard” music, including Rumba, Swing, Cha-cha, West Coast Swing, and Samba. The band returns to Pagan Idol February 27. Here is the band’s website, click “Sound Samples” to hear the theremin.
Wayne’s Tip of the Week: Parking in San Francisco
We were having difficulty finding a parking garage near the lounge on Bush Street. I did notice empty parking spaces on the street, but they were marked as Commercial. We discovered many of these allow parking after hours – though you probably need a couple years of law school to interpret signs. This technique also works well on Pine Street if you want to go to Top of the Mark. Arrive just before 7pm when the Tow Away ends. You can thank me later.
I checked out the Pinole Senior Center where Manny Gutierrez Quartet plays the last Friday of the month. The female singer added a little extra pizzazz to the dance. The dance floor is the typical community center wood floor. It was definitely a senior center crowd. A substantial snack buffet was offered at 9. Beverages were available for purchase. I suggest taking a dance partner with you; leaders aren’t plentiful.
I also saw the Manny Gutierrez Quartet (without female vocalist) Sunday when I danced briefly again to his music at the B Street Ballroom, same music – different locale.
But, I was not yet finished dancing on Sunday. An invitation to a party in Rossmore reintroduced us to the Bob Gutierrez band, who we’d not seen since the old Strawberry Swingers days. The trio played a delightful array of Ballroom, Swing, and Latin. I wish that band would return to a venue in the Marin.
Hint about Rancho Nicasio: usually, if the music is on a Friday or Sunday with no cover charge, then the band is playing in the bar with no space to dance.
You may be interested in “Dance Around the World,” a $50 showcase performed at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco Sunday, February 10 at 5. Know that you will not be dancing. For more information: www.genesisdancesport.com
Look for a huge Swing event at the Lake Merritt Dance Center at the end of February – see “To Watch For” tab.
January 22, 2019
Replying to my comments about the Presidio Yacht Club an anonymous reader replies:
“That’s sad to hear about under-tipping at PYC. If there’s no cover, I always tip $20/couple AND buy something at the venue (usually 1-2 drinks or an appetizer or a dessert). Nearly every musician I know has to hustle, with many of them working several jobs to make ends meet. Anything less than this is freeloading off talent that took decades to develop … If you can’t afford the amazing live music we have here, go DJ dancing for $5 … There are no official “tip guidelines” but if you like dancing to live music, $20/couple is a worthy fee for the amount of fun we’re all having AND a great investment in the amazing live music scene in the bay area. Tipping will keep it that way.”
I too hope this wakeup call encourages all dancers need to open their wallets to maintain the many live venues we enjoy.
At the Fenix on Thursday, the Klipptones surprised us with their diversity of music that ran tunes from 1940s swing to modern-day. They even asked for requests! Though the crowd was only one-third of the house capacity, dancers took to the floor for every song. The restaurant was agreeable to moving tables, allowing more dance floor.
It is interesting about the Klipptones. Two readers have contrasting opinions:
“We first caught the Klipptones when they played the Palace Hotel in SF; they're a little different, blending music styles of older and newer songs; creative and entertaining!”
versus …
“I have found the Klipptones to be a very annoying group (at the Top of the Mark) … they played stuff that seemed to be for their own pleasure and wasn’t danceable all. Maybe one in three or four were danceable … Hard to understand this group.”
Thank you both for your input. We found the Klipptones danceable with every song, offering a variety of dance, e.g. East Coast, Swing, Rumba, Cha Cha, Peabody, West Coast Swing. (Yes, Peabody … but floor space necessary. It lies between Foxtrot & Quickstep).
January 15, 2019
Welcome to Wayne’s Window. Posted under "Venues" is a list of dances that you might consider over the next 14 days here in the North Bay and beyond. I focus on structured dances; you won’t find free-style or Hip-Hop. Also, you will have to look elsewhere for Polka, Square Dance, Flamenco, etc.
Last week the Alpha Rhythm Kings crossed the Bay, coming to play the Fenix in San Rafael. The six-piece band delighted us with vintage swing. Over a dozen accomplished couples put on their own show for us filling the tile dance floor to its maximum.
I’m told the crowd was a tad smaller than usual at the Corte Madera Community Center where the Ray Simpson Band played a variety of music. Still, the dance floor had up to 10 couples dancing Ballroom, Nightclub, and Latin.
Maria from the Presidio Yacht Club says in lieu of live music on Thursdays be sports TV will be on because of small crowds and under tipping of the bands.
South San Francisco is about the same drive time from San Rafael as is Santa Rosa. Sunday afternoon, Chris and I ventured down for five hours of the Golden Gate Smooth Dancers dinner and dance. The layout is much like other community centers: large multi-purpose wood floor (with a pole in the middle), decent acoustics, free parking, kitchen, etc. The music was DJ. $35 buys a lesson, dancing, appetizer, dinner, wine, soda pop, coffee, and dessert. As the name implies, much of the music was “smooth” (American & Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, and Tango); many variations of Latin were played, plus some Swing – heck, they even had time to fit in two Line Dances. We are looking forward to the next time we can go. Tell your friends.
January 8, 2019
Here on Wayne’s Window is a list (see "Venues") of about 100 dances each week in the North Bay and beyond. I don’t report lessons and classes, though many of the dances have them tacked on. If you know of any dances that should be included, PLEASE let me know.
I’ve been out of circulation with little to report. Recently, I asked for contributions; here are two:
Nick’s at Rockaway Beach, just 15 miles from SF, features live music every Friday and Saturday night. When there is a dearth of attractive offerings elsewhere, Nick’s is our default go-to place. Downbeat at 8 and they often play to midnight. You get a first set of good dance tempos; the second set get a bit of a mix and the never-bothered-to-learn-to-dance people start to take over with their ugly gyrations, but the third and fourth sets tend to see a thinned out dance floor and the band takes requests. No cover. Food is good meal in the dining room, or sit in the lounge, order a crab sandwich and enjoy an inexpensive dance night and dinner.
Merry Mixers at the Elk Lodge in Walnut Creek every other Friday night is a good value too. Dynamite desserts subscribe to their email list to learn which bands play. Nice floor, nice folks, easy parking and no free-style gyrators.
- Anonymous
The achoo is one of my pet peeves.
Whenever dancers tell me they can’t come dance because they are sick, I commend them for staying home and taking care of themselves, and I thank them for not exposing the entire community to whatever is going around.
No one likes to miss out. But, dance is indeed a contact sport. We must be vigilant about not infecting one another.
https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html
- S.J.
January 1, 2019
Greetings from Wayne’s Window – we made it into another year. I plan to keep plugging away to find you places to dance Ballroom, Latin, and Night Club. This edition I’m just shy of one hundred places each week in the North Bay and beyond.
My treat to you – FREE MUSIC for home use: www.tropicalglen.com
Playa Cofi Jukebox has a vast library of music. Midway is a category for Dance Music, from Bolero to Waltz (Disco is placed elsewhere). If you like it as much as me, please use the Donate button and click the ads to further support the site.
Last Friday night we ventured north to Monroe Hall’s “Big Band Dance Party.” Andrea Nelson did a marvelous job of teaching for an hour of Foxtrot to a good-sized crowd of varying skills – followed by a dance party – all for $10. The music was not as “big band” as I expected. DJ Steve Luther played also music to appease the Country contingent present. I loved Steve’s constant reminding floor etiquette of stationary dancers staying in the center to allow traveling dancers the perimeter. Thanks, Steve!
Chris and I danced in the New Year aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet to the sound of 3 O’Clock Jump. The music favored Swing, we enjoyed plenty of Foxtrot, plus Waltz, NC 2-Step, Cha Cha, Rumba, and Samba. Chris and I eked out a Peabody to one song. The place was packed – some guests wearing period costumes of the ‘40s, others in Black Tie. Three modular dance floors were laid out throughout the maintenance deck. We chose to purchase the mid-tier table seating. VIP seating is subject to being blasted by music. If you haven’t been to a dance here, do try to make it to the next one – you won’t be disappointed.
The Napa Tuesday Night Dancers have ceased until the Napa Senior Center reopens due to poor attendance at the Pelosi Building. Hopefully, they will resume with more attention to publicity, past announcements were nearly non-existent.
We say “good-bye” to San Geronimo Golf Club. This venue once hosted live music and inexpensive buffets, but it has closed with only a faint ray of hope for rebirth.
December 26, 2018
From now on, the days will get longer – as does my list of places to dance in the North Bay and beyond.
My postings are done with “due diligence,” but many of the venues are shaky on reporting, especially around holidays.
New Year’s Eve: My last count was over two dozen; yes, other parties abound, but their “dance” is different from ours.
Here is a website for NYE parties in The City: https://sfnewyearseve.com/
I didn’t find much – at least nothing our crowd would be interested in, at best an occasional Latin dance floor is tagged on almost as an afterthought. All are DJs, and you know what that means.
For two hours last Tuesday, the Starduster Orchestra keep the crowd on the floor at the Mill Valley Community Center. Sheilah Glover and Noah Griffin accompanied the band with vocals. During the band break, recorded music kept us going. The male-to-female ratio started with more leads but later the scale tipped the other direction. This venue continues to be the favorite venue in our household.
Last Wednesday, expecting a slim chance of (as we know it) dancing, but wanting to get out of the house and do something different, George’s (San Rafael) seemed to be the place to do it. After a stellar review in the Marin IJ, The Happys seemed just what the doctor ordered. The band identifies themselves as “punk-surf.” Both are favorite styles of my Chris; she knew the punk lyrics. And, yes, the dancers looked to be on pogo sticks. The band did a short set, then opened the mike to other musicians. The bar posted the start time wrong (it should be 9pm) and the room was chilly because the door stayed open which allowed the smokers’ air in, but the band’s 5 songs pleased the Wife, and we all know that is one of the secrets of life (she made me write that).
It appears Cellspace (SF) at the SOMArts Cultrual Center is inactive for all of January. Ditto the Thursday Milonga La Paz at the Veterans Building (SF), but the Sunday Milongas will continue. The Ballroom (Rohnert Park) website is out of date, but will have dance parties in January.
December 18, 2018
I’ve unearthed in the North Bay over 100 dances each week (see "Venues") for your pleasure. Many of these include lessons (usually prior). With the holidays upon us, your close scrutiny is necessary, since times and closures may happen.
Where are the ladies? In the last 7 days, I’ve been to 2 group lessons and 3 dances. 4 had more men than women, the other was exactly even … just thought I’d mention.
Last Wednesday, the Corte Madera Community Center had a good-sized crowd, despite the smooth concrete dance floor. The Ray Simpson Band played a vast array of dance music, Swing having a slight preference. Tablecloths and pitchers of water on each table was a nice touch. The treats/snacks were abundant. Remember, all this is free, though a tip jar was passed around (thanks, Steve).
Tonight is the Mill Valley Community Center Holiday Dance with the Starduster Orchestra. These other community center dances will be “dark” this month: Margaret Todd Center, B Street Ballroom (San Rafael Community Center), Pinole Senior Center, and Temple Israel.
Last weekend, Dance Arts (San Rafael) put on magnificent dance showcases at both of its Holiday Parties. Ron Montez taught both nights, a simplistic Cha Cha lesson Friday and ramped up the complexity at bit for Saturday’s Rumba lesson.
Across town Saturday night, Megan Smith did a stellar job teaching Night Club 2-Step at Body Vibe, substituting for Frank Flores (blew his knee out in a freak accident).
On my last count I’ve found 15+ NYE venues (have I missed any?) from Oakland to Pacifica to Santa Rosa to Napa and in between. Chris and I are favoring Swing dancing with or without period attire on the USS Hornet. You have lots to choose from, with varying price ranges from zero to $425 p.p. (Top of the Mark).
December 11, 2018
Double-check each venue, as schedules get a little crazy around Christmas time. In the “To Watch For” numerous listings for NYE abound. Do you have any to add to the list?
Mitch Woods and His Rocket 88’s played Fenix in San Rafael last Friday. The band specializes in Boogie Woogie; all East Coast Swing/Lindy with a few songs West Coast Swing friendly. The band started 25 minutes late, but once they got going, they were wonderful. I wish the same could be said about the restaurant, best described as spotty. The server was casual, edging toward unprofessional (oh, how I miss New Orleans’ service). A friend told me, after waiting for a draft beer order for 30 minutes and calling the server on it, he was told to “be patient.” The crab cakes appetizer was more cake than crab, yet the salmon was cooked to perfection. Yes, we will return but with lower expectations.
I’m planning to continue my listing of Peri’s in Fairfax, but the report below is less than glowing. Go for the music and drink and maybe get in a West Coast Swing or similar.
Field report: “We did make it to Peri's. The place smelled like an ashtray. The dance space was tiny, and the only place to sit near the dance floor and leave your purse, jacket, etc. was at the bar. We waited 1/2 an hour for the band to tune up and start playing, but instead they tuned up and started drinking and visiting. We never heard them play. It felt awkward to me, since I have never really been into the bar scene. I am going to say, unless you are a local at that bar, give it a pass for dancing.”
Note that Just Dance (Oakland) is having not one, but two parties this coming weekend – ditto Dance Arts (San Rafael).
December 4, 2018
Again, the Internet is plaguing me. Sunday, I emailed a Wayne’s Window supplement – it seems that no one got it, even though Comcast and Microsoft Outlook says it was successfully sent. Remember come to this website for updates between my email blasts.
New Year’s Eve isn’t that far away. I’ve found 15 venues but am always looking for more – got any ideas? Right now, we are considering the USS Hornet.
Napa Ballroom Dancers relocated to Napa Native Sons Hall, 937 Coombs Street until the Napa Senior Activity Center remodel is completed.
Chris and I have just returned from our favorite Jamaican resort. It is your typical “all inclusive” which includes dance music. We were delighted to see multiple couples doing structured dance, such as Rumba, East & West Coast Swing, Hustle, Night Club 2-Step, and Cha Cha. Such didn’t happen every night – more the exception than the rule. My advice: if you stray from the dance studio and specialty parties, brush up on your EC & WC Swing, maybe a bit of Rumba and NC 2-Step would help too – leave your Foxtrot and Waltz home.
It appears from the Terrace Room’s website, that it has no entertainment this month, though I overheard there a gig on the 13th. Ditto Le Colonial - after tonight, no postings.
Sunday, I dropped in at Suite 114 (a rec room at a Sausalito elementary school) for 2 hours of Swing dancing hosted by Jasmine. Music was from a play list, the crowd was just the right size. Though no follow-up dance has been scheduled, I’ll be looking forward to the next, when-ever-it-is.
News from readers:
City Swing Big Band looked promising at Sausalito Seahorse, but were not up to par from previous gigs. To appease listeners, Christmas music was played intermittently – not something that can easily be danced to.
The same night, at Lighthouse Bar & Grille, Tiger Lynn Band wowed the small crowd (reads, lots of room on the dance floor).
Last Tuesday, at Ashkenaz, Tom Rigney & Flambeau excelled in infusing energy into a full dance floor. He plays throughout the Bay Area – keep an eye out for him (he returns to Ashkenaz Dec. 18 and Rancho Nicasio Jan. 12).
November 13, 2018
This week's venue list is longer, as I’ll be out of town scuba diving. The next two, maybe three weeks will NOT have a Wayne’s Window newsletter. Remember you can always go to the web site for the latest updates right here.
With the Holidays coming up fast, I ask you to review my “To Watch For” list for your favorite dance. If it is not posted – drop me a line at the above email address.
Did you notice after the “Miscellaneous Ramblings” section on the "Home" tab, I’ve posted six websites that you might appreciate visiting for more dance information?
Over Thanksgiving Day, most places are closed. For those that posted “business as usual,” I would reconfirm before going out.
I got a negative field report about Novato’s Trek Winery. No dance space was available. When I visited, the slate floor had a small amount of room for dance behind the seating, near the entrance.
I’m dropping San Geronimo Golf Course, again. I spoke with the food manager – things are shaky. Only if you live in the Valley would you want to chance the Tuesday and Friday night buffet and music. I’ll let you know if anything changes.
November 6, 2018
I won’t be seeing you on the dance floor this week. A head cold has knocked my legs out from under me, but it hasn’t prevented me from discovering for you 100 dances each week here in Marin and beyond (Oakland to Napa and San Francisco to Santa Rosa).
Fog City Stomp returns to San Francisco this weekend with numerous locations, workshops and classes. If you are liking Lindy Hop and Solo Jazz, then I suggest you check out the web page.
Saturday, we were at the USS Hornet to dance to the music of the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra. Over 300 people showed up, many in black tie (75th anniversary), others in period attire. One large dance floor and two half-sized were sufficient since many came just to listen. BTW: those who bought the fancy VIP seats in front of the band were blasted away by the music’s volume (happens every time). Foxtrot was played the most (which we could do as an EC Swing), followed by Swing, and very few Latin numbers. I saw some accomplished dancers doing Balboa and West Coast Swing. The event drew couples – very few singles to be found. The evening was perfect, including the weather.
Across the Bay at the Presidio Officers Club, the Royal Society Jazz Orchestra packed them in for a festive Swing dance.
I’ve previously emailed readers about the Holly Ball in Berkeley December 8. Manny Gutierrez Quartet will be playing at this dinner/dance. The menu looks scrumptious! If you didn’t receive the flyer, contact me.
October 30, 2018
Hello Fellow Dancers,
Halloween is behind us – well most of the parties are. I’m beginning to compile venues for New Year’s Eve. If you find one, please share.
I wanted to report the Napa Tuesday Night Dance is “alive and well,” but attendance has been down. Moreover, it will most likely worsen, now moving to the same night as the Vallejo Moose. NTND has moved to Mondays and to a new location - the Pelusi Building, 2296 Streblow Drive, Napa. Attendance will continue to worsen if they don’t update the Facebook page and publicize elsewhere. November’s dance will be on the 5th and December on the 3rd. The dance is from 7pm to 9:30pm with a DJ. Did you know if you bring you parents, they get in free?
I just stumbled upon Vintage Invasion, which meets at the BFUU Hall in Berkley. Its motto: “....where the old dances invade a new generation.” It is on the fourth Saturday of every month. Lesson at 8pm, DJ music at 9pm, and live music promised at 10pm. Looking at the playlist, more than half is Waltz and its variations; the rest is Swing, WCS/Cha Cha, Polka, Foxtrot, etc. The next dance is November 23.
Last Tuesday, the Margaret Todd Center had a light turnout for the live music by People of Note. This is a great venue to practice your ballroom skills – give it a try next month on the 27th.
Friday, Marin had its tricks and treats. The trick was on Dance Arts and Body Vibe in San Rafael; both competing with Halloween dance parties that night. Dancers were torn between which to attend; many would have preferred to support both studios on different nights. The treat that Friday night went to Alma del Tango – packing the dance floor with costumed dancers.
The B Street Ballroom in San Rafael had a good turnout Sunday. About a quarter showed up in costume. I think half showed up for the snacks. Manny Gutierrez Quartet played a wide variety of music.
October 23, 2018
The large ballroom crowd at the Mill Valley Community Center danced to the Starduster Orchestra. The surprise was an additional singer, Andy Giddings, along with Sheila Glover. Andy belted out two solos beautifully, and then did a duet with Sheila. Andy didn’t sing until six years ago – says a lot about what a good vocal coach can do.
Saturday, Chris and I dropped in on Frank Flores’ Dance Party at Body Vibe Studio. Frank taught a compressed Night Club 2-Step lesson that all handled with aplomb. Afterward, he led a dance party including at least a dozen different dances (eg: Tango, Waltz, Samba, EC & WC Swing, etc.). He posted a playlist on the wall including suggested dance (some songs can be done in different dances), name of the song, artist, and length. Such is much appreciated; I hope other venues do the same.
Mt. Tam Swing is reported to have been a resounding success. The place was packed. Everyone hopes it will happen again – soon!
Sunday, Jasmine Worrell hosted a Swing lesson and practice party in Sausalito at the grammar school, aka: Studio 144. It was all Lindy, Balboa, EC & WC Swing. I found a partner to do a Peabody. My Peabody is between a Foxtrot and Quickstep – every count is a step.
How I came to dance the Peabody: Those who have danced with me know two things: #1: I can’t remember names and #2: can’t keep the beat. So my attempting a “slow” (one step in two beats) in Foxtrot seldom happens. A few years back at a studio dance party my worst nightmare happened – an instructor asked me to dance! It was a Foxtrot. Intimidated to no end, nevertheless I did my best. Shortly, she exclaimed, “Oh, so you do the Peabody!” To which I exclaimed, “Aaa, err – yes!”
Rancho Nicasio is a wonderful venue – worth the drive. Problem is that most Friday nights the music is in the bar, which has no room to dance. Saturdays, the music is in the dining room with a decent dance floor and good food (service is unpredictable).
Lindy on Sproul Facebook page says it returns Saturday afternoon at UCB. Still, confirm before going out. They are CROWDFUNDING to keep on going – Wayne’s Window sent a few bucks their way. Maybe you can too?
Halloween parties abound in just a few days (see “What’s Hot”). For costumes, Spirit stores are plentiful all over the Bay Area. But buy/rent at a local year-round store. Many are also dance supply. I like Downtown San Rafael’s D’Lynnes Danceware for the vast assortment of put-together-costumes, but also for the makeup advice. Also nearby in San Rafael is The Belrose. Do an Internet (“Google”) for a store near you – there is still time.
October 16, 2018
I’m now averaging over 100 dances (not lessons, though some incorporate lessons) in the North Bay and beyond. See "Venues" -Enjoy!
I’ve scoured the North Bay for Halloween Parties. In my opinion, the best party of the bunch is not in the North Bay, but on Alameda Island at the former Air Terminal where the USS Hornet is berthed. On the 27th inside on the Maintenance Deck, Lee Presson & the Nails (think “Spike Jones meets Big Band) will play danceable rock of the ’60s and ’70s. It’s “invite costume contest” –means if you look good enough, secret judges will “invite” you to the contest. Food and beverage will be available for purchase. Parking is free and abundant.
Folks, we have to loosen up our wallets. Maria wrote me about the Presidio Yacht Club. The bands have been playing for free Thursday nights at this hidden gem of a “dive bar” with a million-dollar view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Presidio. The tip jars have been lean. Bands are not coming back. Maria writes “… due to lack of Tip Jar participation for the band, there will be a $5 Cover! Cannot expect musicians to go home with nothing!” Personally, we tip at least $5 apiece – that’s less than a latte!
Last Thursday, I arrived at Nick’s in Pacifica in time to see the sunset behind two dozen custom/older cars from the ’50s and ’60s. Inside at the bar, The Soundwaves knocked out music from the ’50s to ’70s. Their sound was “rock” solid. This night they were a trio, other nights a quartet. The 15’ x 20’ linoleum dance floor was near barren, aside from the mother who wanted to dance with her 2-year-old and an occasional free-style couple.
Things were different at Sausalito Seahorse Friday night where Unauthorized Rolling Stones played. The place was packed beyond capacity, yet we received the best food & beverage service ever (what a change). We hit the empty brick floor immediately when the band opened with the Kinks’ “All Day and All of the Night,” which we made into a Cha Cha. Before the song was over, the crowd converted the dance space into a mosh pit. Too bad, some of the songs (cover and original) were agreeable to WC Swing and Night Club 2-Step. Amazingly, in the first set, no Rolling Stones song were played. I should note the between-set-band was horrible, “open mic night” quality, minimal applause.
The Big Easy in Petaluma served up wonderful meals as we listened to an impromptu trio Saturday, which was not the band we expected, The Hots started an hour late – just as we were leaving. The Big Easy bands do not start on time.
Again, at the Big Easy, the no-name band was belting out great songs and the tip jar stayed empty. Chris took up the jar and walked it through the room. She reminded people the $5 cover does not go wholly to the band (sometimes not at all). Some under 35 y.o. gave blank stares of “who carries cash now a days?” and stiffed the band. Most others were kind and gave.
Per Santa Rosa’s Flamingo Lounge’s website, the Tuesday night Kizomba has been dropped.
October 9, 2018
The good news is that I’ve located over 100 dances each week in the North Bay and beyond. The bad news are computers, Internet, etc. It seems Comcast won’t let me send emails with abundant hyperlinks (did you notice that clicking on the venue will take you to its website?). Worse news: the Wayne’s Window web site is broken.* The home page is a big display of gray. There is a work-around, but I won’t labor you with it. A pro and myself are working on it with hopes of repair shortly.
* You are reading this now, so the patch must have worked.
Lindy Hop fans should know about Fog City Stomp scheduled for Nov. 9 – 11.
http://fogcitystomp.com
Classes are held every day followed by live music and competitions.
Take note that Napa Ballroom Dancers will have its last dance at 1500 Jefferson on October 13. After, they move to Napa Native Sons Hall, 937 Coombs St. Its cousin, Napa Tuesday Night is silent.
The first Halloween dance of the season will be this coming Sunday in So. San Francisco at the Golden Gate Smooth Dancers dinner/dance. If you plan to go, reservations must be made by Wednesday. Many other venues are checking in with Halloween dances – see “Watch For.”
Need a costume? Here in Marin I recommend D’Lynns on Fourth Street or Belrose on Fifth Stree, both in San Rafael. D’Lynns also has a vast array of accessories and makeup (with advice).
The Wine Country Ragtime Festival happens in Sonoma this coming weekend: https://winecountryragtimefestival.com
Salsa at Space 550 in San Francisco: The Dance Fridays group has expanded to Dance Saturdays. The difference is live music on Fridays – DJ on Saturdays. Deeply discounted tickets may be obtained online.
re: 9:20 Special, though the web site says “Lindy lessons,” last week it was Charleston. Go, have a good time, but know that the lesson may not be what you expected.
Lindy on Sproul (Berkeley) website is no more, so I’ll assume so is the Saturday dance. If you have information otherwise, please let me know.
Local Edition in the City is no longer posting its bands, making it near impossible to list; further, I’m told the dance space is tiny. Until I hear otherwise, I’ve no choice to but to drop it from Wayne’s Window.
October 2, 2018
I’m back from scuba diving (I got a few dances in at the resort) and have found over 100 dances for you each week in the North Bay and beyond. Double-check my listings; any errors I’ll blame on jet lag.
In September, three Marin big bands returned from a summer break. At Mill Valley Community Center the Starduster Orchestra was refreshed and in fine form. Dancers coming from other counties speak to the quality of this venue. The admission increase to $15 did little to affect the crowd size.
As I observed at Mill Valley and other places, women often waiting to dance. If you want to dance:
· Don’t sit at the back tables.
· Tap your feet – display interest in the music.
· Stand up. At Mill Valley, congregate near the entrance.
· Ask for a dance. How many leaders are going to say “No”?
The Presidio Yacht Club’s website is blank – I’ve no way of finding out about the bands, short of driving down and looking at the circulars. If you know of any danceable bands playing there, please report.
I’m frustrated that Local Edition and Café Claude in San Francisco have been lax on updating the web page (I had to phone for info).
September 18, 2018
Wayne’s Window is averaging around 100 dances a week, located in the North Bay and beyond – enjoy. I’m off on a scuba trip; Chris will manage www.wayneswindow.com while I’m away. Always go there for the most current info and updates. No email newsletter next week.
Corte Madera Community Center was hopping last Wednesday to the sounds of the Ray Simpson Band. No one in the crowd of easily 40 complained of the concrete floor or diminished free treats. The playlist heavily favored East Coast Swing. The crowd prevented an outside lane on the perimeter for those who wanted to travel to the Foxtrot, relegating them to join in with Swing. Latin numbers were minimal, nor was any Salsa or Night Club 2-Step played. One Waltz and American Tango was performed. The tablecloth setting was inviting; plus pitchers of water were on each table with cups. Management is looking into canned music for the band’s break.
New to Wayne’s Window venues is Café Claude in San Francisco, up from Union Square – if you can’t find street parking, try Stockton-Sutter Garage. I have been told it has expanded with a dance floor, and I like the groups they have signed. If you go – let me know what you think.
I dropped by Dance Arts Friday for the Salsa lesson and dance. It was a well-attended. Fredi and Nicole pushed the talent of the dancers (which is good) with the lesson. Afterward Fredi DJ’d and danced with as many as he could.
It appears Sundown Blues in San Francisco has been discontinued, but Blues dancing can still be found in Berkeley on Wednesdays at The Beat. Also, though Mission City Swing (San Francisco) bills itself as a West Coast Swing event, I’m told the dance style is closer to Blues dancing. Both are on Wednesday nights. Shades of Blue has renamed to Shades of San Francisco (Mondays). Usually Blues dancing is featured, but select evenings may be Fusion, Hip-Hop, or West Coast Swing.
The Napa Tuesday Dance appears to have vaporized – I find no mention on the Internet and my calls have not been returned. It’s a shame since it was a rare venue that had live music on a Tuesday.
September 11, 2018
I’ve been laid up with a bad back, but with hopes to be on the dance floor mid-week, which prevented me from gathering any news. Chris hopes to be dancing soon, wrist surgery healing nicely.
September 4, 2018
Friday, Sweet City Blues played Red Brick (previously named Graffiti) on a raised stage. Most of the music was variations of Swing, with an occasional Cha Cha. The smooth concrete dance floor allowed for up to 10 couples crammed in, but was more comfortable with 4. That night’s crowd was a bit more talented than I see in similar settings. We were quite pleased with our dinners – can’t say the same about the service. Typical Friday traffic: 1 hour from San Rafael to Petaluma (25 minutes coming back).
In the rumor mill: Arthur Murray is creating a studio in West End San Rafael. Should be up and dancing by October – maybe sooner.
Fairfax’s 19 Broadway has whittled down its entertainment calendar after Sept. 9th. Do consider the 19 Broadway Goodtime Band (Sept. 9) for easy listening plus get in a few dances in a wonderful atmosphere.
Dance Arts webpage has yet been updated for Tuesday’s WnY West Coast Swing lessons and practice; only Thursday’s East Coast Swing is mentioned (no practice after).
I can’t list all the Argentine Tango in the area. My list is spotty, for full listings go to:
www.tangomango.org
A week from Wednesday, the Marin County ballroom bands return:
Sept. 12: Ray Simpson Band at Corte Madera Community Center
Sept. 18: Starduster Orchestra at Mill Valley Community Center
Sept. 30: People of Note at Margaret Todd Center
… during the Summer break, Manny Gutierrez Quartet never took a break from the B Street Ballroom, always playing the last Sunday of the month. BTW: they’ll have a special 1920s dance party on Sept. 30th
August 28, 2018
Sonoma Speakeasy has fantastic music (at least the night we showed up) with hideaway ambiance. Difficult to find, it hides in a small alley off a larger alley off Sonoma Square. Order beer and wine from the unique backlit menu – prices are competitive (and no cover charge). Inside seating reaches a tight 50 with more room on benches outside. Somehow, six musicians fit on the raised stage, including a piano, plus a singer. Dancing is encouraged on the wood floor. So what are the minuses? Even commute traffic slowed the trip from San Rafael only to 40 minutes (25 minutes on the way back). The BIG MINUS is … the dance floor space. Only two couples could dance – three if they are friendly. Starting half an hour late, The Acrosonics, played exhaustingly long sets of Jazz and Swing. Give Sonoma Speakeasy a try. Hint: We preferred the stool seating against the wall.
After six years mentioned in Wayne’s Window, I have been overdue making a visit to Just Dance. My excuse was the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge traffic debacle. With a third lane open, my trip from San Rafael to southern Oakland was 45 minutes – in commute traffic. Just Dance exceeded my expectations. High ceiling, airy, two dance studios, ample free parking, studio-quality wood floor, table seating available, and more. I arrived for the Thursday Night lesson plus dance. $8 got me in. The Cha Cha lesson quickly elevated to silver. Most were able to grasp it, while I faked a few of the steps. The main floor easily accommodated 60 experienced dancers. Like Allegro, it projected on a screen a timer that counts down the current dance and posts the next two dances. The all-encompassing variety ranged from Quickstep to Bachata to Chinese Tango - no Mambo, but everything else. Refreshments are sparse; a few dancers brought in snacks and beverages. I met a couple who drove in from Yuba City, which says to me that our shorter drive necessitates a visit.
Friday, Dance Arts invited Mark Novak to teach American Waltz. The students were of varying skill levels, yet he managed to meet everyone’s needs. What we like about Mark, besides being a darn good teacher with great sense of humor, is his constant dancing with all the women until closing.
One of our favorite bands, 7th Sons, played at the Lighthouse Bar and Grille Saturday. This means “dinner and dance” to us. Good news – the chairs have been replaced! My fish and chips were some of the best I’ve had. On the downside, table service was lacking at times and the dance floor again had sticky spots. The band has a new guitarist. I’m not sure what the reason, but they were flat during the two sets we attended. We left mid-set, as I found myself protecting my partner from collision, no longer enjoying the dance. I’m told that shortly after leaving, the freestylers took over the floor.
Sunday, B Street Ballroom (aka San Rafael Community Center) held its monthly afternoon dance party with Manny Gutierrez Quartet playing his usual. The music was a vast array: Foxtrot, NC 2-Step, Tango, Polka, Rumba, etc. The refreshments and snacks could qualify as lunch. This older crowd tended to gravitate away from the stage and crowd toward the tables, making traveling dances difficult. You get a lot for $10. Parking is free and plentiful. Next month will be a big to-do; ’20s attire will be appreciated, but not required.
The Terrace Room will soon be requiring a two-drink minimum on Thursday and Friday nights. It doesn’t have to be booze, but dancers take note. Actually, take a few extra ten-notes out of your wallet and show you appreciate the music and dance floor.
Attention tangueros, California Ballroom’s (Santa Rosa) Sunday Tea & Tango Practicá (Sept. 9) has an abundance of tangueras, to the point that men get in at half price.
August 21, 2018
Other matters have kept me away from the dance floor. I hope to return this coming week. The only field report was that Pride & Joy kicked butt at Sausalito Seahorse last Friday. It is a favorite venue: free parking, good dinners, beer & wine, band is on a raised stage, and few seem to mind the brick dance floor. Please keep those field reports coming in. Also, please keep me posted on your favorite venues.
August 14, 2018
Saturday we dropped by Sausalito Seahorse to check out the 6-piece Marinfidels. They lost points with me by a half-hour late start. They made up for it with some dynamite sounds of the ’70s rock. Regrettably, not much was offered that we could dance to, but the free-stylers were happy to fill the brick dance floor. So delighted by the music, we would have stayed, but we had another stop.
I’d never heard of Harmonia, but knew of the location as being once a legendary recording studio hidden near the Sausalito Bay Model. Nor had I seen Roberta Donnay and the Prohibition Mob Band. The 6-piece band played Swing and Blues music of the ’20s and ’30s. The wood dance floor was adequate in size for up to 10 couples. Keep an eye out for this singer and venue.
“New kids in town,” or at least new venues to Wayne’s Window. We welcome the Sonoma Speakeasy in the town of Sonoma, POST Wellness in Petaluma, and Kelly Cassanova moved the West Coast Swing dance and lessons from Flamingo Lounge to Ellington Hall (Santa Rosa).
Welcome back San Geronimo Golf Club and Coppola Winery up in Geyserville. Remember Rossi’s 1906 in Sonoma? It is now The Reel Fish Shop and Grill –with live music.
August 7, 2018
Comcast and Microsoft continue to torpedo my email newsletter. I keep hoping a solution can be found shortly.
The latest news, is Allegro is building a new place in Richmond. I just forwarded you the press release. No opening date announced, I gather it will be quite a while.
One of the friends to Wayne’s Window reports a wonderful time at Nick’s Rockaway in Pacifica, that is until the band’s second set and all the freestylers were lubricated up enough to make fools of themselves as they took over the dance floor. Folks, I remind you, that unless it is a dance studio event, you must hit the floor as soon as the music starts before “the others,” drink in hand, take to the floor.
As much as we poke fun at “the others,” I must give the devil his due. Typically we hold back on our adult beverages to dance – they don’t, and it is their money that is paying for the music. I am seeing too many tight wallets. Please buy a meal, have more than one drink (it doesn’t have to be alcohol), and for Pete’s sake – tip the band at least $5 a piece.
Back to Nick’s … it is a lovely drive (45 minutes from San Rafael), ocean view, free parking, separate restaurant, full bar, good sized dance floor (20 couples?), and stage for the band. The FREE live music is usually every Friday and Saturday, with occasional additional days. Most of the music fits West & East Coast Swing and Latin, maybe a Night Club 2-Step – don’t expect Foxtrot (unless you are early to the floor) or Waltz. Make a plan to go soon.
A reader’s field report states San Francisco Polish Club - Mission City Swing is more Blues dancing than their website published West Coast Swing.
July 31, 2018
Last week, while we were away in NOLA, eating and drinking our way through the French Quarter, we discovered the WWII Museum. Large enough to suspend two bombers from the ceiling and requiring more than a day to see everything, its size will cause us to return next year, because it will take more than the one day we allotted for it. In my opinion, New Orleans humbles the Bay Area’s restaurants – food and service excelled. When possible, we avoided Bourbon Street, because of the smell of humanity and general scuzzyiness that makes one tend to overlook the nice places. Just one block over on parallel streets, everything is much more palatable. Chris and I found nowhere to dance … but weren’t looking that hard either – this is a music city for listening.
I got two reports from the trenches about last week:
Manny Gutierrez Quartet excelled at the Pinole Senior Center. It is not on my radar, but that may change. His group plays the last Friday of every month at the Center.
The Carlton Trio was reported to be awful at the Finley Center (Santa Rosa). Our friends report the hall and floor gets “thumbs up” but the band was the worst; for example, it changed tempo at mid-song, fumbling to close a song, etc. I’ve heard good things about the other bands that play Finley each and every Friday afternoon, so try those out instead.
July 17, 2018
Non-dance: Last Tuesday night, we attended a San Rafael Pacifics’ baseball game. If you like baseball, this is an inexpensive way to enjoy it in a down-home way. It is an “A league,” composed of collegiate, minor league, and the like. Though it is in a “professional” league, a routine fly ball is not a sure thing. Included are silly between-inning entertainments. August 17th Dance Arts will be in the show. You might find a team near you. It is a six-team league: Sonoma Stompers, Vallejo Admirals, Pittsburg Diamonds, Napa Silverados, and Martinez Clippers. The games go through August.
Last Wednesday The Ray Simpson Band played to a good-sized crowd, thanks to members of the Swing Nuts club at the Corte Madera Community Center. Favoring the Swing Nuts, the music was heavily weighted toward Swing and fast Foxtrot but did include Rumba, Cha cha and Tango. I don’t recall a Waltz, Nightclub Two-Step, or West Coast Swing – I could be wrong. The tablecloths, candles, and pitchers of water on large round tables was a nice touch. The concrete floor – not so nice. The band will take August off and return for this free event same-time, same-place in September.
July 10, 2018
Folks, I found a gem for Thursday nights in Sonoma County; that is if you like West Coast Swing, Line Dance, and County 2-Step. A great turnout produced energy on the floor.
This was my first visit to Casa del Mar for the Thursday Night Dance. The restaurant cooks up wonderful Mexican dishes. A full-service bar is next to a separate dining room. Speaking of service – it was spotty – depends on who serves you. One server was horrible, while another was attentive. We were in a separate room, more of a nightclub setting. The crowd that showed up this night are many of the regulars from Sunday’s Monroe Hall West Coast & Country dance. Other nights here, I’m told, are focused on Latin dancing.
For this event, first timers get in free (regular price is $10). Griffith and Colleen did a superb job of teaching West Coast Swing. I like that Griffin was miked – easy to hear him. After the hour lesson, general dancing began on the 30’x45’ wood floor. I didn’t know what to expect – I’ve never seen so many variations of County 2-step. When a Cha cha was finally played by the DJ, I grabbed a partner, hit the floor, only to discover everyone else was doing a Country Line Dance Cha cha. My advice: go, but wear your cowboy boots.
The next night found me at The Ballroom in Rohnert Park. This was my second visit. I thought issuing name tags were a nice touch. Elizabeth taught an intermediate West Coast Swing lesson, but what was so great, the beginners were able to keep up! You do know the West Coast Swing is the Official Dance of the State of California? Did you also know that occasionally it is referred to as the “Third Position Dance?” That is because when you finish your “anchor step” you end up in the third position (ballet feet position).
After the lesson, general dancing began. Of course a few extra WCS, but everything from a Samba to Quickstep, with all the usual in between. Regrettably, after the lesson ended, many left; in part because of the group being over attended by men. Wayne gives The Ballroom lesson and dance party (with cookies) a double thumbs up.
One thumb down for the Lighthouse Bar and Grill in Strawberry. This call was primarily due to the poor dinner service of a rookie waiter and the manager’s “That’s the way it is” attitude. BTW: the food was good. The wood dance floor was sticky – big time! I actually tried the wood deck outside. It had space and no stickiness, but a tad uneven. The dance floor offered adequate room until halfway through the 7th Sons’ second set when others screwed up enough courage to join us and chase us off the floor. Some good news: I hear the restaurant is experimenting with different brands of dining room chairs to replace the old collapsed ones.
The Flamingo Lounge (Santa Rosa) has a new website that is reader friendly and posts the weekend entertainment again. The Tuesday night West Coast Swing has been discontinued due to lack of attendance.
From Chris B. (thanks): “People in Plazas … a wonderful series of free lunchtime outdoor concerts in SF … All shows are free and no tips are accepted as grant money from local businesses pays for the bands… The shows start and end promptly and the quality of the outdoor “dance floors” varies wildly from Mint Plaza (very good) to Transamerica Redwood Park (very bad).” Chris goes on to recommend downloading the PDF from the website: http://peopleinplazas.org
Sunday I visited San Francisco's Great American Music Hall for the 70’s Dance Party. To be brief, if it returns, go for the music and costumes, plus get some dances in as the crowd ebbs and flows on the dance floor. 3 hours of non-stop live music.
July 3, 2018
I’m well into my sixth year of Wayne’s Window and still finding more venues for your dancing pleasure in the North Bay and beyond.
Last Tuesday was the final performance before the summer break for People of Note at the Margaret Todd Center (Novato). It had one of the larger turnouts I’ve seen. Many who came to listen, but the dance floor often had over 20 dancers (okay, the Polka number kept most in their seats). The music was heavily weighted to Foxtrot/Swing (often dancers were doing both), a few waltzes, and a minimal Latin. The band resumes September 24. Also on vacation until September are the Ray Simpson Band at Corte Madera Community Center and the Starduster Orchestra at the Mill Valley Community Center. This leaves traditional ballroom with live music in Marin left to the San Rafael Community Center on each month’s last Sunday when Manny Gutierrez Quartet plays.
Sunday, we visited the Marin County Fair, primarily for the Beach Boys. Of the original five, only Mike Love was on stage. Simply, it did not live up to the last time I saw them and was more of a tribute band featuring Mike Love.
Speaking of oldies, check out Paul McCartney Carpool Karaoke. It runs 24 minutes, but it is worth it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjvzCTqkBDQ
June 26, 2018
I’m back from three weeks traveling the Inland Passage of Alaska and Vancouver, B.C. Thank you, Karen, for babysitting my website while I was gone. Something new here, you might notice that my attached Wayne’s Window list is now available in docx and PDF format. Look it over; I’ve found almost 200 dances over the next 14 days in the North Bay and beyond.
A few special dances are happening for the Fourth, but a big standout is the USS Hornet (Alameda Island), which will have live music all afternoon by Mitch Polzak & the Royal Deuces (Americana), Shark Alley Hobos (New Orleans/Jazz), and Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums (Blues/Boogie). Fireworks can be viewed from the bow (San Leandro) or aft (San Francisco). Parking is abundant and free.
Le Colonial is back with live music and dance. Remember, this is the venue that dropped the dance because of low revenue (i.e., too many were not spending money). The bands I see listed are best suited for Swing.
Also new (to me) is Mission City Swing at the Polish Club in San Francisco’s Potrero Hill district. Every Wednesday night West Coast Swing lessons are followed by dancing at 9pm.
My ever-favorite Presidio Yacht Club is not listing music on the web page, and Maria writes that it is difficult to find Thursday night music because the bands are playing to a too-small crowd for free. I do know the Lonestar Retobates will play PYC July 8 afternoon.
May 29, 2018
Summer vacation is coming upon us. Monroe Hall will be dark June 11 until re-start on June 29 … well that is, music that interests us – Scottish dance, drum circles, and the like continue during that time period. Also in July and August, Margaret Todd Center, Mill Valley Community Center, and Corte Madera Community Center will be dark. The bands will take a vacation, returning to their usual schedule in September.
The best I can tell, Friday Night Blues dancing has been dropped at Levy Studio in San Francisco.
We say “Good bye” to WnY (last dance tonight), since they lost their lease. Some of the events move to Dance Arts in San Rafael.
Web browsing: Wayne’s Window is best viewed with Microsoft Edge, Opera, or Google Chrome. As much as I favor Mozilla Firefox, it is not utilizing the full scope of my postings. For example, Bold Text is often ignored.
Rancho Nicasio has some great bands on Fridays that I’ve NOT posted because they now only preform in the bar where dancing is only in the aisles. Saturday nights, though, the music is played in the dining room (note the lack of discounted cover charge for diners) where the dance floor is acceptably sized.
We visited the Temple Israel of Alameda Monday night to check out Dave’s Swingtime Band. In the past we’ve had an excuse for not attending (Richmond-San Rafael Bridge backup), but that is gone. But it is still a 40 minute drive from San Rafael. But why have my friends in the East Bay not been attending? Granted, your first visit is a tad difficult to find the place (Hint: way back in the left parking lot). Such is outweighed by finding a live band on a Monday night – truly a rare event. Most importantly, this is a great band – as good as we’ve seen anywhere else. Half of the 17 musicians are active professionals, e.g. first trumpet for the S.F. Opera. Up to 50 musicians cycle through for a seat. They have a tight sound, plus tonight’s vocalist was better than many we hear around town. The dance floor is typical rec center vinyl. It has about the same size as the Margaret Todd Center in Novato. The music was Foxtrots, Swing, Samba, American Tango, Waltz, Cha Cha and a Rumba. They play every last Monday of the month unless it falls on Christmas or NYE.
BTW: our favorite band, Project:Pimento, will be playing at Pagan Idol in Downtown S.F. Thursday June 21 at 7pm. If you are in the neighborhood and like retro-lounge music – check them out. From what I can glean, dance space is minimal to nil.
Non-dance: Hamlet is at Forest Meadows at Dominican University in San Rafael. It is an abridged show (only 3 hours). I loved it. Chris, who has seen Hamlet multiple times over the years, opines it to be the second best she’s ever seen. Come out and support local talent. Be warned, it can get chilly (bring a blanket each – if anything else, you can sit on it). http://www.marinshakespeare.org/
Sunday’s renamed B Street Ballroom at the San Rafael Community Center was a success with an increase in crowd size (75) = energy in the room. A wonderful way to spend the last Sunday of each month. And, besides the music of Manny Gutierrez Quartet, it has free parking and a spread of goodies.
May 22, 2018
I've lost hours due to Comcast and my emails. Most of you on my email list did not get last week's Wayne's Window and this week's was probably late. See below for May 15 news and comment.
Last Tuesday, the Starduster Orchestra attracted dancers from outlying counties to come to the Mill Valley Community Center. Two hours of fine dancing … now, if we can only figure out how to get the slow and/or stationary dancers to stay toward the center.
Our first trip across the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge in months was beyond lovely. Chris and I dared to leave Marin to venture off to Oakland Friday night at 6pm. The last time we tried similar, we eventually made a U-turn back to home because the traffic wouldn’t move – on a Thursday night yet! We all know that Friday night traffic anywhere in this country is horrific. Let-me-tell-you: Friday, we might have slowed to 40 mph once or twice. This clear sailing seems to be all because of re-opening the third eastbound lane. We can again visit our favorite East Bay venues without distress.
Speaking of visits, we decided on dinner and dance at the Terrace Room overlooking Lake Merritt in central Oakland. The dining room along with menu has been reconfigured. Since our last visit, the bandstand has been moved to the alcove overlooking the street and tables have replaced the former location. The menu is simpler, but the taste is magnificent. The Art Deco appeal of the place works its way into the cocktail list of adult beverages concocted 90 years ago.
We were lucky to find free street parking within two blocks of the Terrace Room/Lake Merritt Hotel. Others took extra trips around the block(s) to find parking, in part to Lakeside Drive being rebuilt. Hopefully, it will all be resolved by our next visit.
Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums were playing that night. With our 7pm arrival, we saw only one couple and an elderly groupie on the dance floor – it didn’t look good for an evening of high energy. But, by the time we left, the dance floor was packed with dancers doing the Swing and Balboa overflowing between tables. Our dinner guests became enamored with Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums.
May 15, 2018
I was away last week for a scuba diving trip – no dancing to report. Though I heard the monthly dance at the San Rafael Community Center has made changes, including the working title to the “B Street Ballroom.” The turnout was nearly double in April I’m told.
Computer stuff: The “find” command may help to navigate the Wayne’s Window list. Let’s say you want to see a list of the Allegro dances. Highlight “Allegro,” then Ctrl + F. Or Ctrl +F, then type in “Allegro.” Or select one of my city abbreviations to see a city listing. Mac users, use Cmd + F. This command won’t work with all programs, but many word processors, email readers, and web browsers recognize it. Give it a try.
The San Rafael-Richmond Bridge has opened the eastbound third lane. Now we in the North Bay can visit the East Bay again without such a horrendous traffic backup. In fact, I’ll put it to the test Friday with a dinner and dance at the Terrace Room with the music of Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums.
May 1, 2018
This latest posting has 277 dances in the North Bay and beyond over the next three weeks.
I had to drop the Shades of Blue (SF) listings because of a poorly maintained Facebook page. More and more venues and bands are whimping-out of having a well-presented webpage and substituting with a sloppy Facebook page.
The annual Bay Area Dance Week has started and will run through Sunday May 6. For more information, go to: http://bayareadance.org/events/
Last month, a loosely formed dance club of about thirty dancers, “Swing Nuts,” showed up en masse at the Corte Madera Community Center. The Ray Simpson Band picked up on the energy and never sounded better. No one seemed to care about the concrete floor. The music favored Swing. Regretfully, the crowd was oblivious to allowing traveling dancers have the perimeter. The momentum of the evening was lost to celebrate a birthday on the dance floor. But all-in-all it made for one of the best Corte Madera dances.
According to the Flamingo Lounge (Santa Rosa) web page, weekend live music has been dropped. DJ dances still exist Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
We welcome a new venue to Wayne’s Window: The Runway in Napa. I’ve not been there, but understand that it has a freshly refinished 12’ x 20’ dancefloor.
April 29, 2018
The May 5 dance at Body Vibe (S.Raf) has been canceled. Next one will be June 9.
The annual Bay Area Dance Week has started, and will run through Sunday May 6. For more information, go to http://bayareadance.org/events/
April 10, 2018
You can find here 375 dances I located in the North Bay (actually, Oakland and north) spanning three weeks (through May 8).
Here is a fun video depicting dance through the years:
https://www.facebook.com/MetDaanMagazine/videos/2427750390796004/
Friday’s rain must have kept people at home, inside, warm, and dry from the low attendance reports I heard. Not so at The Ballroom in Rohnert Park – around two dozen dancers showed up. This typical dance studio, with the usual format (lesson then dance), has a wood floor with spring to it and its low ceiling gave a cozy atmosphere. I liked the friendly feeling of the crowd and was happy to see Elizabeth Barrett teaching – I remember her from the old days at Bay West. Marin has enough venues to keep me busy (I live in San Rafael), so seldom do I venture beyond, but I’ll keep The Ballroom on my radar for another visit.
Saturday night at the Sausalito Seahorse, Last Call Troubadours played much original “Americana-flavored roots-rock.” We found their songs to have 1980’s roots as did the familiar pieces played. I’m finding a need to develop my West Coast Swing skills for the clubs I’m frequenting. That or I need to develop some sort of freestyle that doesn’t make me look like a spastic monkey. That evening the surprisingly danceable brick dance floor filled up sporadically with friends of the band and patrons in a freestyle mood relegating the few of us desiring structure to the corners. High energy drove the middle-aged-plus crowd.
At the Seahorse, the calamari appetizer plus warm bread with a side of garlic-ladened pesto for dipping took the edge off our appetite until a well-prepared dover sole arrived. Our waitress, Ara, was a new face to us. Her service was leaps and bounds above the dismal table service experienced in the past. Full $15 cover charge was billed to diners. Speaking of money, well into the second set, we were the only ones to tip the band. Regular readers know tipping is a mantel I carry to encourage others, for fear live music will otherwise diminish.
Shades of Blue dance venue has been dropped because the most recent status is dated October 2017. If anyone knows anything more recent, please send it to me.
April 3, 2018
The venues just keep on coming about 90 dances a week are posted here for pleasure. Get out there and kick up your heels and have some fun. At venues with live music, show your appreciation with tips and applause. Believe me, the bands pick up your energy.
After many, many years of listing Noel Jewkes at the Sausalito Seahorse on Tuesday nights, it seemed as a visit was overdue. We found Noel playing saxophone, accompanied with bass, drums, piano, and a singer. Improvisation was necessary to find room to dance, finally choosing more to the rear of the room on the brick floor. We fashioned a Rumba, Foxtrot, and a E.C. Swing to the smooth jazz. On Tuesday nights, go here for a jazz club setting, have a meal, maybe a beverage from the beer and wine bar (loved the $8 Sangria) but don’t have your heart set on dance. Other nights at the Seahorse offer a wide palette of music.
Frank Flores starts lessons this month at new local at Body Vibe in San Rafael (WnY is closing soon).
March 27, 2018
“G’day, mate.” Thank you, Karen, for minding the Wayne’s Window website while we were Down Under.
Finley Center has canceled its third-Friday night dance and Steve Luther, DJ extraordinaire, will no longer be hosting the Friday afternoon Senior Dances. Friday afternoon Senior Dances continues.
The building that houses WnY has been sold and will be closed June 1. West Coast Swing lessons and dances will continue through the end of May; after that, I-don’t-know. The tango contingent, El Beso, is moving to Dance Arts in May.
Frank Flores is moving his operation from WnY to BodyVibe in San Rafael. They start Tuesday night classes there April 3 and hope to have Saturday dance parties.
Here is an enlighting website about dancing and health: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/08/170825124902.htm
Rumor has it that Le Colonial may soon be having dancing again, currently it just offers.
Hello, any polka dancers out there? On many Sundays, the Sonoma Moose Lodge hosts Polkas, usually in the late afternoon.
February 23, 2018
Thanks to Karen for keeping the Wayne’s Window website tidy while I’m away. I’m finding certain internet sites can’t be visited from outside the USA.
Visualization: learn to dance and get more sleep. Jack Nicklaus says he never took a swing, even in practice, without first visualizing it - mind and body working together. Practice and repetition is how we will improve our dance skills. Not always can we physically practice. I’ve taken to reviewing lessons and patterns through my mind before going to sleep. This has improved my skills almost as much as if I’d been on the dance floor – plus it clears my mind of the garbage that is keeping me awake.
Scuba diving took me away again; this time to the Club Med* at the Turks and Caicos islands in the eastern Caribbean. Afternoon music often invited us to dance: Night Club 2-Step, Cha Cha, Swing, Salsa & Rumba. After 9pm, techno music took over, we tried Merengue, but retreated to quieter spots for conversation and laughter. As I’ve intimated previously, keep your expectations low for partner dance at resorts and cruises, but if you like freestyle and loud then you are in for a treat.
* for a full trip report – email me.
We get a new (to me) venue: Local Edition in San Francisco caters to the Lindy Hop and Swing crowd with live music on Tuesdays and maybe other days.
Use caution, because some out-of-date information is listed, but here is another source for dance in the Bay Area: http://dancecircle.org
Please note that the Napa Tuesday Night Dance has moved to the Pelusi Building on Streblow Drive.
Finley Center (Santa Rosa) has canceled the evening dances on the third Saturday.
February 6, 2018
“Thank you” to all my readers for the praise and news tidbits – it keeps this labor of love going.
Last Friday I dropped in at Dance Arts for the Night Club Two-Step lesson and dance party. Enough people attended that staff split up into two groups. Beginners had their own lesson in the smaller studio. At the dance party I had the chance to dance with a few from the beginner workshop and for the most part found them to have promising talent.
Non-dance: Saturday we took our out-of-town guest to The Alley in uptown Oakland on Grand Avenue. With effort, free street parking can be found. We went for the mid-century version of Karaoke: piano bar. The Alley shows its decades of existence in a fun, rustic way. Ron Dibble was behind the keyboard for years, but sadly passed away last year. We met Jeff in Ron’s place. Jeff’s talent is way above average, he seemingly knows all the songs and can match the key to your voice. I’m told that Brian also plays piano. Other nights have Karaoke. This might be the place for a fun nightcap after dancing at the Terrace Room or Lake Merritt Dance Center. BTW: this place is cash only, with an ATM on site.
Has anyone been to the Lake Merritt Dance Center on Monday nights? I would love a field report.
January 30, 2018
Watch out about calculating the year of “Classic Rock.” Saturday we were curious about the Big Easy venue in Petaluma. The band, Stingray, plays “classic rock.” That means music from the ‘80s and ‘90s – not ‘50s and ‘60s, but Chris and I had a wonderful evening. The food was excellent, service was some of the best, and the band played to the crowd (40 to 60 years). Chris and I got in a few partner dances before the free-stylers took over the smooth concrete dance floor. Not a single slow song was played in the first set. Expect to dance EC and WC Swing plus a Cha Cha to their music. The place has the ambiance of a cellar club in Chicago (though it is on ground level). As usual, I recommend hitting the dance floor as soon a the band starts, before the liquor loosens up others’ legs.
Non-dance: Friday, “Who’s Live Anyway” made an appearance at the Marin Civic Center, for what appears to be an annual event. The place was packed. Four comedians did improv. What they did, they did well. Personally, I prefer scripted comedy. If you love improv, then definitely go next year; otherwise, support your local comedy club elsewhere.
We say “goodbye” to George’s Nightclub in San Rafael. The Sunday Banda has been dropped from its calendar, leaving DJ and Karaoke as the only music events. And, for some reason (I may be wrong), the DJ probably won’t be playing too many Foxtrots.
Shades of Blue in San Francisco seems to have fallen off the radar – let me know if anything changes. Elsewhere, Sundown Blues offers Blues dancing in Berkeley and San Francisco each week.
January 23, 2018
About 80 dances are available here in "Venues" each week for you choice in the North Bay and beyond. "Locations" lists all the places where you can dance, plus learn. Lessons are broken out and posted in “Learn.”
KEEPING HANDS CLEAN
Q: What's better for getting hands clean and germ-free: soap and water or hand sanitizer?
A: Soap and water. Wetting, lathering up, and rubbing your hands for
20 seconds—then rinsing thoroughly and drying—reduces bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can inactivate some germs, including cold and flu viruses, but they don't kill other common bugs such as norovirus (commonly referred to as the stomach flu) and Clostridium difficile (which can cause serious diarrhea). Hand sanitizer also may not kill germs if your hands are dirty or greasy. That said, a sanitizer that's at least 60 percent alcohol is better than nothing if you cover your hands thoroughly, rub it in, and don't wipe it off.
– Consumer Reports “On Health” (Jan. 2018)
What is it that draws us back to the Sausalito Seahorse? We complain about the poor service, the brick “dance floor,” a dog running through the dining area and other barbs; yet it is as if a meteor landed there and draws in people in. We find an energy, be it from the crowd and/or band, but it just feels good there.
Hot Rod Jukebox packed in the (young) crowd at the Presidio Yacht Club Friday night. The dance floor was packed as the band keep a feverous beat all night – I’m told “Not a single slow song was played.”
There is a big to-do in the City, the Edwardian Ball begins on Friday with “The World’s Faire” followed by Saturday’s ball. https://www.edwardianball.com/san-francisco
Last Saturday, at the Lighthouse Bar & Grille (Mill Valley/Strawberry), Void Where Prohibited pretty much packed the place. Food and service was good. The playlist favored East and West Coast Swing, with a few other styles sprinkled about. Partner and freestyle dancers respected each other when the dance floor filled up.
Attention Klipptones’ fans, after many months, Thursday will be their last night at the Fairmont’s Top of the Mark.
Live Tango music on Mondays died quickly at Bellota Bistro in San Francisco, but it has changed the venue to every other Friday.
The Temple Israel of Alameda still has dances on the last Monday of every month. The Dave's Swingtime Band rents the space but is not affiliated with the temple, thus the reason the dance is no longer on the calendar.
January 16, 2018
We welcome my newest find: live music on Monday night at Bellato Bistro in San Francisco. Here you can practice your Argentine Tango free every Monday.
Last Friday, Chris and I were at Dance Arts for Christian’s 90-minute Foxtrot workshop followed by a dance party. Actually, there were two separate Foxtrot classes – a nice touch. The other was set up in the smaller studio for the beginners, taught by Noreen.
Saturday, we had a wonderful dinner and dance at the Lighthouse Bar and Grille. The fare is American with a Danish influence. It was great to see so many friends there. The 7th Sons played classic rock from the ’60s and ’70s that most suited West Coast Swing and Night Club 2-Step; though a few songs were compatible with EC Swing and Latin. One song my partner and I eeked-out my version of the Peabody before the floor filled. If the Lighthouse management is reading this – “Please re-cushion the dining room chairs!”
January 9, 2018
The holidays are well behind us, the dance scene is beginning normalcy. I’ve come across at least 80 different dances each week for us to enjoy here in the North Bay and beyond. Keep in mind that this doesn’t include all the lessons that are available everywhere.
New Year’s Eve field reports from you were about Just Dance and Rancho Nicasio – both were rave reviews. If next year’s NYE is anything like last, then you cannot go wrong by going to either.
A reader asked “What is the largest dance floor in Marin?” It is a close call. My best guess in order:
San Rafael Community Center
Mill Valley Community Center
Margaret Todd Center
Corte Madera Community Center
Dance Arts
WnY
The first five are all close in size. Technically, “real” dance floors are at Dance Arts and WnY. Those floors are “sprung” – a surface that has a bit of bounce. I should add, the worst floor of the group is at Corte Madera Community Center, which is smoothed concrete.
Last Friday we were at Dance Arts. After a Rumba lesson by Fredi, there was a dance party with refreshments and raffle. Fredi stuck around to make sure everyone got a dance (yours truly also assisted in getting the women out on the dance floor with my Chris’ blessings).
January 2, 2018
What did you do for New Year’s Eve? I’d love to hear from you. Myself? “Do as I say – not as I do.” Yes, I suggested 30 venues for you, but Chris and I went to none. We were at a party at the San Francisco Victorian Payne Mansion Hotel. Dancing was an afterthought. The DJ played modern pop music – none that I recognized. If I had danced, Merengue or Bachata would have been appropriate to this style music. One of the many high points of the night was that … we found free street parking nearby!
Non-dance: Doctor Gonzo, a popular comedian/musician in the ’80s and ’90s is in town. We saw him at Trek Winery in Novato Friday. His act was “nice,” but we got our best laughs from Stephen B. who hails from Sacramento.
I found another website for you. It covers much of the style I favor, is centrally located to favor San Francisco, but reaches out beyond to far away as Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa. There are links to bands, editorials, venues, etc. – almost too much information. “About Dancing” is especially good for finding Viennese Waltzes: http://aboutdancing.info
December 27, 2017
While you have been wearing out the dance floor this last weekend (you were, weren’t you?), Chris and I tested the climate of the Midwest. All of a sudden, 50⁰ F. doesn’t seem all that bad.
New Year’s Eve is upon us. Besides the two-dozen + events I’ve uncovered; New Year’s Eve – Eve offers a few more for those who wish to stay in on NYE. Be advised that reservations need to be made for many of the events, and it probably should be done NOW. Some are sold out.
Further (disclaimer), the holidays made the postings of the venues extra shaky. Please take the time to re-confirm my listings. Note that many of the venues are “dark” this Friday. In fact, the pickings are downright slim.
December 19
The holidays are on us and I’ve been as busy as a certain fellow in the North Pole, checking my list twice. Attached you’ll find oodles of places to dance in the North Bay and beyond. But some naughty children out there do not tend their websites, so I implore you to double check my postings, especially during these holidays.
If you haven’t made plans for New Year’s Eve, I suggest you stop everything else and make reservations. A few venues have already sold out.
Tango Mango is a non-profit website for, yes, you guessed it – Argentine Tango. It is a marvelous source for venues. I’ve just donated (even though I don’t do the Argentine Tango – yet). I hope you will contribute too.
Dance Magazine wrote an article promoting massage and debunking myths. Thanks to Kat for forwarding it: http://www.dancemagazine.com/the-rubdown-2306996567.htm
Saturday, we were at Dance Arts for the big Holiday Show and Dance Party. Ron Montez gave a Night Club 2-Step lesson. Professional that he is, he kept it at a level for all those there. The show was magical, starting with the first performance done by preschoolers. Parrish was able to attend, though he sat quietly in a wheelchair throughout the evening. His health kept him away from Friday’s show. His visits to the studio maybe more infrequent.
December 12, 2017
A lot to discuss. First, be aware that the holidays are causing calendar changes (mostly cancelations); do verify before heading out.
Listed in "Venues" are more than 160 venues you can dance at over the next 14 days in the North Bay and beyond. This count does NOT include the 28 places for New Year’s Eve. You’ll note that the NYE prices range from $0 to $3,250! What catches my fancy for NYE? The Terrace Room, USS Hornet, Napa Ballroom Dancers and Nick’s Rockaway. I suggest you decide soon, many of the good ones will sell out quickly and others require reservations.
Cha-Cha-changes. Did you notice the changes? I’ve included the town location of the venues in an abbreviation. Do you like the new look here on the website?
Non-dance: Thursday, we drove in for the San Francisco Symphony Cirque de la Symphonie. Hint: I strongly recommended that you pre-purchase the parking when you buy your tickets to remove stress when going into a city that doesn’t like autos. For me (I love novelty), the high point of the evening was the performance of “Little Bolero Boy.” You can check out here the Clear Lake Symphony’s version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IG1bnuaIuRU
We did dance Sunday at the Great American Music Hall’s Holiday Big Band Bash featuring Full Moon Swing with 30 singers. I was delighted to see so many familiar faces – not so delighted by the cramped dance floor (wheelchair dancers made it even tighter). Chris and I had a wonderful time. Of “our group” the reviews were from “left early” to “most excellent.” The venue hosts a similar big band event on April 15. If you go and want good seats, I suggest arriving half an hour before door opening and stand in line.
Did you read my commentary last week about people who to give unrequested dance advice? I was told that I pulled my punches and was too nice. So again: Don’t comment, instruct, or advise unless asked!
December 5, 2017
The holidays are upon us! Parties and cancelations abound. I’ve a huge list of NYE dances – please proofread it for me; also suggest of any I missed.
Last week at Novato’s Margaret Todd Center, we danced to the music of People of Note 16-piece band. The dance floor was lightly attended, so we enjoyed lots of room for Ballroom and Latin dances.
Friday, Dance Arts featured a Cha Cha lesson by ever-so popular Mark Novak, followed by a dance party. By today’s standards, it was a moderate sized crowd. Everyone appreciated that Mark sticks around after the lesson, trying to dance with every gal there. I tried to keep up with him, since the female-to-male ratio was 2:1 (“Surf City” as one dancer commented).
Teaching: a comment on etiquette
Ask first!
Guys, this seems to be more of a problem with us, but ladies, please consider too. First, do you remember how you react when someone critiques your dance, even in the nicest way? Second, consider during a lesson (group or even with just a partner), ask first if “May I make a suggestion.” Usually dancers only want corrections/guidance from instructors – not peers. Lastly, never, NEVER, dance with a stranger or acquaintance then comment on their style unless requested. If you have a lesser dancer, preferably find a move/pattern to complement and make her feel like a queen. I’m not talking about finding a beginner who doesn’t know a dance and you offer to teach – that’s a horse of a different color.
Field Report from Toni (thanks):
“I went to the Albany Community Center yesterday to hear the Albany Jazz Band … I can tell you this is NOT a dance. It is a concert in a fairly small room. 1/4 of the room is filled with a full-size Big Band, 1/2 of the room is filled with chairs in rows, which were filled with listeners. The other 1/4 is on the sides, of which one side is big enough for dancing. There was only one couple dancing when I was there. It appears to be a bring your own partner situation…”
“What I heard was not standards, and certainly more contemporary than the '30s-'50s. The band is good …”
She used an app on her iPhone to check the sound level. Toni reports the average was 95 decibels, and the high was 107.9.
November 28, 2017
Thanks to Michael and Phia for again updating the Wayne’s Window website while we were away for Thanksgiving in Jamaica. We got in a bit of dancing at the resort – mostly NC 2-Step and Swing, the rest of the time was scuba and socializing (and gaining weight). Theme nights brought out the wild in me.
Flamingo Lounge in Santa Rosa has ceased posting the weekend entertainment. The Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday dances continue.
Just for December, the Friday Senior Dance at Finley Center has been moved to Wednesdays (1pm).
Body Vibe Studio in San Rafael has canceled its dance this month.
Country Line Dancing will return to the Novato Hopmonk on the second and fourth Thursdays.
I’ve got to give a plug for Joallyn and Two Left Feet studio in Danville where dance lessons, events, and parties galore are offered. Danville is off my radar, but - if I lived closer – I’d be frequenting it. I’ve met Joallyn and think she is marvelous. BUT, besides pouring out admiration and endorsements, what I really want to point out is this (correct me if I’m wrong) is the only place in the Bay Area that arranges for dance-themed ocean cruises.
The website is: www.joallynballroom.com
Joallyn’s email: joallynballroom@gmail.com
Field Report:
Last month Toni reported about the Klipptones playing at the Terrace Room:
“The Klipptones played danceable music averaging 84 decibels, which was comfortable without earplugs, yet filled the room with sound. Hurrah! They are a classy looking group, actually wearing tuxedos. Who does that any more?”
“They played one Cha Cha during the last two sets when I was there. They played a couple slow dances. Mostly they played medium and fast temps Swing/Lindy songs. They could have been playing to the crowd. I heard they sometimes play Foxtrots and Rumbas. They had both a male singer and a female singer. They have a very professional sound.”
“The small dance floor is now wood – probably fake wood, though much better than it used to be. I was told it can be a little sticky sometimes. Maybe the stage was a little different? Though the table layout is the same.”
“I recognized a half dozen Lindy dancers, and there were enough other dancers to keep the dance floor full. I got both kicked hard and stepped on hard, not my favorite. The dance floor is still small. There were not that many diners, so some people were dancing between the tables. The atmosphere was fun and friendly.”
The Terrace Room will NOT be having live music in December due to private events. Live music will pick up again in January.
November 14, 2017
With the holidays coming upon us, please double check the listed venues; I expect changes.
The ever popular Starduster Orchestra dance at the Mill Valley Community Center has been bumped up a week for just this month. The dance is tonight at 7:30pm. If you see me standing still, do come over and say “Hi,” and, ladies, ask for a dance.
Last Wednesday, I was pleased to see a change at the Corte Madera Community Center. A few tables with clothes and candles were added and the lights were a bit lower. I don’t know if this feature is permanent, but it sure added to the place. The crowd was slow to arrive, but an hour later the dance floor was seeing 8 to 10 couples. The Ray Simpson Band arranged a Cha Cha for the occasion.
Two days later, we donned vintage attire and visited old Petaluma – beautiful turn of the century homes. The 1910-circa Petaluma Womens Club held a 1940s USO dance with Swing Fever playing Swing and Foxtrot. The rec-room-type dance floor was good-sized. Did you know that crumbled potato chips quicken the surface? Though a one-shot-event, if similar pops up, do consider attending.
Non-dance: We went to see "Pinky" at the Belrose Theater on 5th Street in San Rafael. It received rave reviews in the Marin IJ and we give it raves too. It's a coming of age love story with humor and heart. Two stars...the boy, David, and the girl, Pinky. The gal had won the SF Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle award for Best Principal Actress in 2017 for her portrayal in Venus in Fur (which Chris saw last year and was floored by her excellence then too). The show's final performances are next weekend: Friday, Nov 17 at 8pm and Saturday, 2pm and 8 pm, Nov. 18. Tickets are $21 for seniors and $25 for adults. So worth it!
Order tickets online at http://marinonstage.org/
George’s Nightclub (San Rafael), has dropped the “Latin Caribbean Night” due to lack of attendance. Sunday Bandas (live Mexican/Latin music) will continue; depending on the band, admission is $30 to $50.
The Terrace Room (Oakland) is not maintaining its website, so you will have to phone for information.
November 7, 2017
Friday night, Christian at Dance Arts demonstrated a complex (to me) Silver pattern. The way he taught it made it danceable before we were through. A dance party followed the lesson. I scooted out early to check out the band Loving Cub at the Presidio Yacht Club.
Once there, I found out how the younger crowd likes to “dance:” stand on the dance floor with beverage in hand and watch the band with an occasional sway side to side. And the PYC changed bands from the website listing – no Loving Cub. The band Assateague packed the dance floor with thirty-somethings overflowing onto the deck outside. The music we heard was soft modern rock – nice, but nothing I would dance to, if there had been room on the floor.
The reports I’m getting about the Tonga Room are similar, with the crowd taking over the dance floor and just standing there. More bad news: Tonga Room is no longer taking reservations for fewer than 10 people – wait for dinner could be an hour long.
Back to the PYC: My stay there was measured in minutes. My “partner in crime” and I drove to the other side of Sausalito to find Doc Kraft Band playing at the Sausalito Seahorse. Tiger, a female vocalist has injected vitality into the band. The brick dance floor was filled with all types of dancers, including her very young grandchildren. I thought the room had at least 4 tables too many, making the dance area cramped. We arrived early enough to be charged for admission, but too late for the staff to offer service. I’m not surprised; service has always been a weak point there. So there you have it, the place charges admission and has poor service, cramped brick dance floor, little ones on the dance floor, an occasional dog wandering around – yet, I still recommend the place. The food is reliably good, the stage is raised for visibility, free parking can always be found, fine for people watching, etc.
You Lindy Hoppers probably know about it already … Fog City Stompers are holding a weekend workshop. Dances and lessons will be held in the evenings at different places in San Francisco, go to: http://fogcitystomp.com/
In Petaluma, early evening, Swing Fever headlines a fundraiser for the Petaluma Women’s Club. It looks to have “simple food” and cocktails included in the $50 cost, and some great raffle prizes. We will be there.
October 31, 2017
For those who haven’t had enough Halloween parties, two remain that I know of: Allegro and Hornblower Yacht.
Speaking of Halloween, Chris has a sore foot, so without my darling wife at my side, it was difficult to get in the “spirit” – so I donned my zoot suit (no makeup) and dropped in at Dance Arts Friday. The crowd was respectable in size, but no longer “bursting at the seams” from days of yore.
Saturday, 7th Sons played at the Lighthouse in Strawberry/Mill Valley. Dancers en masse (up to 10 couples on the dance floor) descended upon the place. Wonderful dinner, wine, and friends made the evening fun. Chris socialized as I sought dance partners – of which I enjoyed many (Thank you, ladies). The restaurant was generous in prizes (just about everyone in costume left with a bottle of wine).
I couldn’t make it to the San Rafael Community Center for the Goldenaires’ dance. A report came in that the Manny Gutierrez Quartet has a lady bass player and singer. All was great: the music, the dance floor and snacks. The only problem is the small turnout. Folks, you are missing out on a great dance opportunity by not checking out this Sunday afternoon monthly event.
Mondays at Lake Merritt Dance Center have gone from live Swing music, to DJ, to lessons only. You will now have to go somewhere else for your Swing dance.
Also recently axed was the Line Dancing at Hopmonk (Novato).
Did you get the memo? The well-attended Mill Valley Community Center dance has moved up one week for November only. The Starduster Orchestra will play on November 14 (7:30pm)
October 24, 2017
Halloween is upon us. I’ve found 26 dances where you are encouraged to wear a costume. No costume? In Marin, I suggest you go to D’Lynne’s for costume rental or purchase; it also has an extensive supply of makeup and accessories. The Belrose, also in San Rafael, also has costume rentals.
I spent much time at Eventbrite.com (https://www.eventbrite.com/d/ca--san-francisco/events/) perusing Halloween and NYE events for us. Most that offer “dance,” offer Top 40 DJ dances; but help yourself and check out all the goings on – there is a big bunch to look at.
Some of you expressed interest about my recent scuba trip in Cuba. Here is a video from our dive boat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIUOXcwPwiU.
Different date, but exactly what and where I was and what I saw/did.
Here is a fun, short dance video, depicting dance through the years (just 1½ minutes):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kc_JhhKN7OU
Dancing with friends at the Mill Valley Community Center is always a bright spot in my month. Regretfully, Chris’ plantar fasciitis (sore foot) flared up. How did she put it? Oh, yes, “If you tell me to go – then I’ll go.” Being a veteran of the marriage wars, I knew damn well to let her stay home. The bright side was more time to dance with the solo gals. The crowd was a tad smaller (because of the Sonoma fires?), but they kept the large dance floor well populated. I was delighted to see many fivers in the tip basket.
Friday, Stompy Jones drew many familiar faces to Rancho Nicasio. The just-a-little-different music of the ’30s and ’40s is refreshing to our ears. Also included, as Stompy says, “some of the more modern music of the ’50s.” The 7-piece band dresses up in ’30s attire to set the mood. John Costa offered a rather sophisticated pre-dance lesson. Dance floor space is adequate. The food and service satisfied the fussy diners that we are. The drive through West Marin’s redwoods is half-an-hour west of Hwy 101.
Saturday, Chris’ slight limp couldn’t keep her down – so off to the City we went, for the “Pre-Halloween Electro Ball” at the “Steamy Sci-Fi Speakeasy” benefiting the Center of Sex & Culture. I dusted off my steampunk top hat and Chris found her corset and off we went. The place is non-descript (we walked by it), but inside, it’s adorned with art work only for the open-minded. All the furniture was moved to the walls to expose a particleboard floor; which was better to dance on than what some of my frequented venues offer. We were surprised that the expected mass of diverse dancers … never emerged. Our other surprise was that this turned into a ASL party (not mentioned in the press release we received).
The “crowd” peaked at just over a paltry dozen while we were there (“Hey, more room for us to dance!” – ed.). We had a good time (“adult beverages” were sold) – but sadly Chris pushed her foot too far. Bernie, the organizer, has held these monthly dances for much of the year, but he will change to a special occasion event from now on, due to poor attendance (stiff competition from nearby venues with live music).
Good news: “Thursday Night Dancing” aka Casa del Mar in Santa Rosa raised $617.00 for the Sonoma County Fire Victim’s Fund, which will be matched by Oliver’s Market.
Welcome to this site, CELLspace, which offers “alternative Milonga” with live music every Wednesday in San Francisco. A one-hour class is offered beforehand. It is at the SOMAarts Cultural Center in San Francisco. They advise FREE parking can be found – just do NOT park at Trader Joe’s.
October 17, 2017
It is difficult to be cheery, what with the tragic fires in the North Bay. The silver lining is that, to the best of my knowledge, all of our favorite venues are unscathed. But I’m recommending you re-verify before attending any venues in Santa Rosa. Both Monroe Hall and the Flamingo Lounge were closed last weekend, but my understanding is that they will be operational soon – if not right now.
Fire benefit events:
Steamy Speakeasy Electro pre-Halloween Sci Fi Ball & Dance Classes in S.F. :
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/steamy-speakeasy-electro-halloween-sci-fi-ball-dance-classes-tickets-38163618410
Casa del Mar Santa Rosa:
http://www.thursdaynightdancing.com
The Ballroom Santa Rosa:
http://theballroomexperience.com/Schedule/Calendar/
Thanks to my wife, Chris, for updating the Wayne’s Window website while I was scuba diving off the southern coast of Cuba. All I did on board a dive boat was eat, dive, dive, eat, dive, dive, eat and sleep – repeat as necessary. I danced a few Salsas in flip flops. All the locals and the Cuban boat crew were delightful. While mostly in the water at the beautiful archipelago Jardines de la Reina; Camagüey and the road to the dock was the only land part of my trip, but it was all good. Tell me again, “Why is there this US embargo?”
BTW: How’s you Halloween costume doing?
October 3, 2017
Halloween is around the corner. Please let me know about venues that I may have missed (see “Watch For”). For costumes in the San Rafael area, I recommend D’lynn’s Dancewear and Belrose.
Do an internet search for “dança geométrica variable.” Not the dancing I do, but find it entertaining; a whole series is available:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6MpABTX4Rs
Non-dance, some random thoughts: Chris and I spent a long weekend in Burbank visiting with friends and touring Universal Studios.
Uber: Leaving the airport was the first time we ever used Uber – it exceeded our expectations, easy to use (gotta have a smartphone), inexpensive, fast pickup.
Tickets: AAA gives a 10% discount for Universal Studio tickets that gets the cost down to $95 each. The price is not all that bad if you spread it over the 9 hours spent there. Selected hotels offer “early in” tickets. IMHO: “Front of the Line” tickets (double the cost) are a waste in non-peak times. We went on a Friday and never waited in line for more than half an hour.
Universal Hollywood: Arrive early and you should see everything you want. We recommend the Studio Tour, WaterWorld show and Harry Potter. Take a wide-brimmed hat and wear sunscreen; and a disposable poncho in the winter. If you have the option, Universal in Orlando is much grander and offers more variety, requiring 2 days to see it all.
Lodging: We stayed nearby at the Garland. Both it and its highly rated Front Yard restaurant are decorated in retro 70s décor. Both are pricey – but everything is. A free shuttle to Universal is provided.
September 26, 2017
I’ve listed in "Venues" a plethora of dances spread over the next 14 days in the North Bay and beyond – hope you find something you like.
Swing aerials: Jim B. found this YouTube dance video with the Big Bopper singing “White Lightning.” https://youtu.be/Jml3gbT8gME
Don’t try this at home!
Rancho Nicasio seems to be the place I love to complain about. Among other things, it was once the poor service in the dining room – but that changed for the better. Now, Bob, the owner, has decided to shut down the main dining room on most Fridays and move the musicians into the bar area. He wants the atmosphere of cozy, crowded and alive, which he says a half-filled dining room can’t give. But now we have no place to dance. Bob says “It is quite all right to dance in the aisles and is frequently done.” This is fine for freestylers, but not for us. Believe me, we tried.
But I still recommend Rancho Nicasio. I’ve tried the new menu and as I recall, though minimal in choices, the food was great. The beautiful drive through the redwoods is half an hour from Highway 101. However be warned that real dancing is only in the main dining room. How do you tell? Mostly by whether you will pay a cover charge.
Last Friday night at Rancho Nicasio bar, the Beer Scouts played classic ’60s & ’70s classic rock, leaning to the heavy side. Half the songs could have been danced to WC Swing and maybe a few EC Swings – the rest were not danceable (aside from freestyle).
Frustrated by the lack of room to dance at Rancho Nicasio, we relocated to Trek Winery in downtown Novato, where Todos Santos played “Cantina Americana,” which was soft classic rock with alternative genres. With a glass of wine in a living room-type setting of couches and stuffed chairs, we could adapt some Rumbas to their music, plus we figured out how to do a Cha Cha and EC Swing to other songs on the concrete floor. We considered a Foxtrot and Polka, but foot traffic was a concern. If you like wine, music and an occasional dance, I say “Go.”
New to Wayne’s Window is the Milonguita and lesson at the Emeryville Senior Center, a weekly event, every Friday in the early afternoon (1pm class, 2pm Milonguita). Best of all, it is FREE.
September 19, 2017
This issue of Wayne’s Window contains 180 dances spread over the next two weeks in the greater North Bay (centered on San Rafael, and as far south as Oakland).
Shoe care: Use shoe oil (I’ve heard olive oil is a cheap substitute) to keep your shoes’ leather uppers in good condition. Over time, the leather dries out. Do this every year – six months preferably. Also, don’t wear the same shoes two days in a row – let them dry out. Shoetrees are a good idea.
Outside of my realm of dance, but maybe interesting to others, Tam Twirlers, in San Rafael, will be starting a new beginners’ class in modern Square Dancing. For more info:
http://www.tamtwirlers.org/
Halloween is approaching, so start planning your costume. Also, please let us know about any dance parties out there; I’ve already started the list in the “Watch for” section of Wayne’s Window.
News from the Front Line: Sarah Lee writes: “We were dancing at the Veterans Home yesterday and what a nice crowd they had! At least 40 dancers and quite a few onlookers. The floor is beautiful.
Danced at the Lighthouse Saturday night. The dance floor was awful - very sticky.”
Last Wednesday, I dropped in at the Corte Madera Community Center, for the Ray Simpson Band. I was delighted to find ladies who could dance well. Sadly, we were short on leaders – I didn’t sit out a single dance. Probably eight couples max’d the dance floor that night. It seems the band played a touch more Latin music. I’ll be back next month.
Chris and I were unable to dance Friday and Saturday; but, Sunday, did learn Bachata at Meng and Lucy’s Engagement Party at Dance Arts. Congratulations to a wonderful couple in the dance community.
September 12, 2017
‘found around 90 dances in the North Bay (and beyond) this week – keyboard is smokin’.
For me, an eye opening TED talk explores gender roles in dance:
https://www.ted.com/talks/trevor_copp_jeff_fox_ballroom_dance_that_breaks_gender_roles
Do you recall my raving review of the Speakeasy immersive show in San Francisco? They are offering a 2 for 1 ticket offer, the code is BROADWAY. Fine print: no dancing, only for tickets of $80 or more, and must purchase before 4:00pm Thursday, September 14.
While the cat’s away the mice will play – or something similar. Chris was in Chicago this weekend, leaving me with much free time. I managed to fit in five dances in three days – my calves are sore.
I’ve been mentioning the Veterans Home in Yountville for years – ‘bout time I see if myself. Luckily, one of Chris’ GFs could accompany me, because there was no women available for dance. The two of us were the kids in the room. There is a large hardwood floor surrounded by banquet tables. The dancers peaked around seven couples. The band was mostly brass, playing early jazz, ala Natural Gas Jazz Band, that was mostly Swing, though you Quicksteppers could have fun. The price was $10 with snacks available for purchase. Bottom line: Go, plus it’s a lovely drive.
Saturday, after the WnY dance party, I slipped over to the Presidio Yacht Club where Doc Kraft was playing mostly Swing. The dance floor was over crowded, but the dancers were well behaved, though I my elbows became very wide and my butt stuck out (I’m sure not a pretty sight) to protect my partners. BTW: I was delighted to meet there many friends of Wayne’s Window.
September 5, 2017
The oppressive heat last weekend and Chris’ broken toe negated any dance, though we did hang out with some avid Argentine Tango dancers. My roving reporter ears picked up some tidbits. Such as tangomango.org is more reliable than the venues’ own websites because the tangomango contributors are the hosts/instructors and don’t want any mistakes for fear of losing people. Thus, I’ve learned to glean info now from tangomango and have a skeptical eye at the venues web site. In addition, Marin’s Belrose Theater Milongas are every-other-week and will cease in November – Alma Del Tango will pick up the time slot.
East Bay Waltz in Berkeley is a new entry to these listings. The music promises to be: Waltz, Cross-step Waltz, Polka, Swing, Schottische, and Latin on the second Saturday of each month.
The Beat in Berkeley, besides having the Tango and Swing you see here, has many, many, diverse dances – it might be worth your checking out the schedule.
Are you in the market for some dance clothing or shoes? Dance Arts, in San Rafael, is selling new and used on Saturday September 9, from 2pm to 5pm. And, they will be giving FREE dance lessons, refreshments, and raffles in celebration of National Ballroom Dance Week. Call 415 459 1020 to reserve a space.
August 29, 2017
Posted in "Venues" is a long list of dances (some include lessons) in the North Bay and beyond. Using most word processors’ Search (Ctrl + F) command, you can search/sort you favorite venue or band. For example, simply highlight “Allegro” (without the quotes) then use the “Ctrl” (Cmd on Mac) plus “F” keys to see a list of every place Allegro is mentioned. Or, open Search with Ctrl + F, then type in the box “Allegro”. First you must Copy and Paste into your word processor.
Did you know Wayne teaches beginning computing once a month in San Rafael for the local computer club? The next class is on September 7 near the San Rafael library. Contact Wayne for details.
Heads up! A few regular venues are closed because of the Labor Day weekend.
We will be dropping in at the Sausalito Art Festival sometime this Labor Day Weekend. There will be multiple bands every day, though dancing by our standards is nil (e.g. lawn, freestyle & crowded).
Non-dance review: Check out Whipper Snapper in west San Rafael for a delightful lunch or dinner that's not standard fare: think “Caribbean Tapas.” The interior decoration continues the Caribbean-theme colors with lots of matching whimsical art. The owner (Bill Higgins) is also the chef. Ambient music suits Baby Boomers (some off-the-wall, such as Beatles’ music to a reggae beat). For years, the warm Spinach Salad, Fish Tacos, Mussels, and the Sangria stand out to us. Garden-like patio outdoor seating is in back. The staff has always been attentive and friendly. It is roughly eight minutes west off Highway 101 on 4th Street with plenty of free and metered street parking. This neighborhood treat will feed your belly and your soul.
August 22, 2017
We say “good bye” to “Dancing Under the Stars” at Jack London Square. The season wraps up Friday night with an 8:30pm Salsa lesson followed by a mix dance party.
Non-dance reviews: The Speakeasy (not to be confused with the Speakeasy at the Center for Sex & Culture) is a unique experience. Self-described as an “immersive theater” says it all. Great attention to detail with dozens of performers recreate a 1923 San Francisco speakeasy where alcohol and gambling are offered in this hidden lounge. Don’t let its subterranean location fool you – this is a classy gin-joint. I had expected this would be a lighter entertainment fare – wrong. Aside from the cabaret, little frivolity exists. From snitty showgirls to WWI veterans, we see into the souls of our grandparents’ generation.
We found four major sections of the Speakeasy: we were directed at first to the bar (“escorted” ticket), then moved through the casino to the cabaret, and then hung out in the parlor. A hidden door takes us into a secret room with a two-way mirror and speaker, allowing us to observe behind the scenes of a 1920s makeup/dressing room. Everywhere you wander, expect a show of some sort. A place for photos is said to exist, but we never saw it.
Precise details are down to the tin-tile ceiling and vintage cocktails (Chris had a “Corpse Reviver” and me, a “Vieux Carre”). Chris dressed to the “nines” with her flapper dress. This may or may not have been the reason she got a rare personal interaction with a performer. My guess is that over half of the guests did their best to costume up for the occasion.
I highly recommend it. If you go with a group, agree to breakup into couples and venture off on your own. It was a long show, a tad over 3 ½ hours – you get your money’s worth. We parked at the North Beach Garage, 745 Vallejo St. (the competitor across the street has poor reviews and may not be open that late). The parking garage is but two blocks away from the secret location. I can envision us going again – not this year, but later on. Check Goldstar.com for discounts.
In addition, this week we dropped by Albert’s Park in San Rafael for a semi-pro Pacifics vs. Pittsburg Diamonds’ baseball game. Covered bleacher seating, delectable hot dogs (I made an exception eating these – yummy!), beer and cornball-between-innings entertainment. Chris abhors sports, but insists we return again next season. The home team lost, but we still had a ball. Hurry if you are interested - the season is almost over.
August 15, 2017
Thursday, we were in Corte Madera for Circus Vargas. We arrived with low expectations and left with praise. Think of it as Cirque du Soleil – Lite. The circus will be in the Bay Area (San Jose to Petaluma) until September 18. The discount coupons abound – anyone is a fool if they pay rack rate. Email me if you want any tips, such as seating, cameras, etc. Otherwise: www.circusvargas.com
Saturday, was all dance and no lesson at WnY. Frank and Megan mixed up the music to suit everyone’s taste. Regretfully, the ratio of leaders to followers diminished, resulting with double the women to men. Thankfully, some very capable ladies were glad to lead. I kept busy that night.
Hats off to Sausalito Seahorse. It is sending pictures of lost articles of clothing to its email subscribers. Though not available on the web page, it is a commendable effort.
Please share if you have reports that would help our community. Others want to know the good (and the bad) places and dancing tips. Let me know if I may use your name.
I so hate anything negative, but I need to share honest opinions. Bruce was less than enchanted with Eagles Hall. In defense, our recent experience there was more positive when Hot Rod Juke Box played. Our gripe was that it was mostly Swing that hot evening.
“I went dancing at Eagles Hall last night. The venue was as I expected, having driven past this hall for many years. It was in decent shape for its age. Going inside took me back to the early 50's. It looked like they had a well stocked bar as we walked past it to get to the dance floor. Price of admission for non-members was $10 a person.
The floor was actually pretty big, but unfortunately sticky, anyone coming here should bring some powder for their shoes.
The crowd was not that friendly, in that for the most part, they were ultra-seniors (I figure the average age was 78, met one lady who was 94). Whoever comes here should have good floor craft skills since the seniors don’t move much.
Manny Gutierrez Quartet played traditional songs but severely lacked energy. It really didn’t make you want to jump up and dance. But then again this group is over 40 years old; they had much more pep when I first heard them in Pinole about 15 years ago. They were actually playing as a trio that night (one musician short, reason unknown).
We left before the raffle; tickets were 6 for $10. We lasted for 2 hours. We probably won’t go there again by ourselves, maybe with a group.” - Bruce
August 8, 2017
Guest instructor Colin James at Dance Arts made a point worth mentioning about turns: the man leads only the first half a turn; it is incumbent for the lady to finish the second half. Gentlemen, the hand circles in a small halo above her head and slightly less than the diameter of her head. I might add, “gentlemen,” be just that – be gentle, and do not “crank” the turn with your arm or aid with a push from your other hand.
I’ve added new venue: La Pena Cultural Center in Berkeley. It has a Salsa band and lesson on the last Monday of the month. Cost of $5 includes the lesson. Beer, wine, and food are available for cash. Thanks to Joyce for the tip. Further, she reports, “It was absolutely the best. The band is unique with terrific rhythms. Anyone who is a ‘salsalero’ would be in heaven. They start with classes ahead of the dance. The class space filled up and they cut admission to it before the dance.”
Novato has two beginner-intermediate dance (smooth, Latin, nightclub) lessons on Wednesdays. You may already know about WnY, but did you also know about Margaret Todd Center? Regrettably, both conflict by being on the same day. 5 one-hour classes are $66 to $76 (standard fare) at the center. Go to www.novatofun.org or visit the center.
Goldstar (https://www.goldstar.com) is a often referred to as a “bucket shop” or “ticket discounter.” Call it whatever you like – it is a money saver! Chris and I have used Goldstar for years, getting up to 50% off on big name venues (Beach Blanket Babylon, S.F. Giants, etc.) We just bought tickets to The Speakeasy – okay, it was only a 10% discount, but still the same, a savings. I suggest you check out the website every now and again.
August 1, 2017
Cat’s Corner has moved to the Swedish American Hall on Market near 16th.
Non-dance review:
“39 Steps” is a marvelous four-performer play at the Ross Valley Players’ Barn. Amusing, but never did laugh out loud. Almost slapstick. Lots of stage crafting and breaking of the 4th window. Be astonished when an actor plays two roles at simaltaniously. Included are many Easter Eggs of references to Alfred Hitchcock movies. Tickets are $22--show is worth it. Always good to support community theater, especially when it's fun.
Friday found us at the Hopmonk in the town of Sonoma (there are three Hopmonks). We are fans of surf music, so the band, Aqua Velvets, lured us to have dinner there. Hopmonk has the usual restaurant and bar plus an expansive courtyard and deck (fire pits and heaters when necessary). All areas had a considerable crowd this night.
The trio kept the amplification down, almost background music. If there had been dance space, we might have eked out some Rumbas and one East Coast Swing; but management chooses to fill the wood floor with tables. I suppose we could have danced outside on the deck. The defined entertainment area had 9 tables that could seat up to 30. At peak, fewer than half the tables were occupied. There was no cover charge, yet the tipping was abysmal – five of us tipped during the first set. Is it too much to cough up $5 each?
Back to the restaurant, we ordered Calamari, Pulled Pork Sliders and Mussels with Fries. The food was bland but eatable. Service was timely and courteous. Entrance and parking is in the rear. Due to the lack of dance floor, future events won’t be listed here.
Saturday night, the 7th Sons packed the house at the Lighthouse in Strawberry. The band self-describes their music as “Hippie,” in other words, rock of the ’60s and ’70s (sorry, no In A Gadda Da Vida). While we lasted through the first set, the dance floor was full, but not overflowing. Freestylers were at a minimum. My partners and I danced mostly Night Club 2-Step and West Coast Swing; while one couple did a magnificent Argentine Tango to the same music. One song we danced East Coast Swing and two others we forced a Cha Cha and Rumba.
I suggest you put the combination of Lighthouse plus 7th Sons on your “To Do” list. We were all pleased with our food and service. Now if only they would re-pad the dining room chairs …
Sonoma County Fair is August 3 through 13. Here is a schedule of the bands:
Thursday – August 3: The Marshall Tucker Band** at 7:30 pm
Friday – August 4: Guerro de Grupos at 7:00 pm
Saturday – August 5: Life in the Fast Lane: Eagles Tribute at 7:30 pm
Sunday – August 6: Graciela Beltran at 7:30 pm
Monday – August 7: Lauren Alaina** at 7:30 pm
Tuesday – August 8: Foghat** at 7:30 pm
Wednesday – August 9: WAR** at 7:30 pm
Thursday – August 10: The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute** at 7:30 pm
Friday – August 11: Batalla de Bandas at 7:00 pm
Saturday – August 12: Trent Harmon** at 7:30 pm
Sunday – August 13: Banda Machos at 7:30 pm
**Limited number of optional concert and dinner packages available.
Optional Dinner Package $60
includes Fair admission, dinner & reserved concert seat
Optional Concert Package $32
includes Fair admission & reserved concert seat
Bands on several stages as well – see Fair Schedule
http://www.sonomacountyfair.com/fair/sonoma-county-fair.php
Thanks for the list goes to So Co Dance Beat (http://socodancebeat.com). What makes this Sonoma County website unique is it is starting to describe the dance floors at different venues.
July 25, 2017
I guess you are helping to spread the word, my website, www.wayneswindow.com, is getting more and more attention with every week – keep up the good work. Reminder, this is all non-profit – I’m retired and want to give back to the dance community.
Part 2: Mill Valley Community Center vs. Corte Madera Community Center
Some of these comments may apply to other places that you dance at. “Thank you” to those who responded to my query (see below) “Why are there more people at Mill Valley Community Center compared to Corte Madera Community Center?” My perceived order of answers in importance:
The band: The Starduster Orchestra is more in tune to playing to the dancers, by mixing up with an expanded variety of music. The Ray Simpson Band received complaints about too many “traveling dances,” which can be wearing. Lack of Latin dances was noted. I’m sure Nightclub, besides EC Swing (WC Swing, Hustle, NC 2-Step, etc.), would be appreciated too. A few noted the professional attire of Starduster. More than a few mentioned the quality of music was better with Starduster. In defense, technically, Ray Simpson is having a practice session when we attend.
I ask, “How hard is it to plan and map out the songs?” People of Note at the Margaret Todd Center, hands out a printed list with recommended type of dance.
Floor: Obviously the artificial wood floor won out over the concrete floor at Corte Madera. Concrete is not conducive to experienced dancers. When I pointed out that Sausalito Seahorse has a brick floor and it is busy, the response was that the social bar/restaurant setting makes up for it.
Ambiance: All gave the nod to Mill Valley’s room being more airy and open. Someone actually called Corte Madera’s “oppressive,” which I feel is too strong, but we all have our opinions.
Band breaks: The wisdom of playing recorded dance music during “half time” at MV, keeps the dancers’ energy engaged. Historically, people go home during a band’s break. It was noted that a few bar bands at other venues play straight through 2 hours just to keep the room full.
Tables and seating: Never an issue to me, since I seldom sit down and consider tables as something that takes up floor space. But some appreciate the aura a table creates as a place to socialize. Mill Valley and Ashkenaz are the only non-restaurant/bar that has tables that I know of (Bay West was appreciated the few times they did it). Chairs lined up around the perimeter are practical, but stark.
Promotion: Starduster self-promotes and has a few loyal fans who further promote it. Heaven knows that all community centers fail to promote dances on the websites – I’m speaking to those all over Northern California! I’m challenged to find a community center website where I can type in “dance” and easily find something close to what we seek.
Dancers: Unanimously, I heard about the abundance of good quality dancers at Mill Valley. The same people apologized for sounding snooty, but qualified it by saying good dancers attract others.
Cost: Was never mentioned, aside from the cheap tipping at Mill Valley (and elsewhere).
Parking, location, time and snacks: None mentioned.
Anymore comments? I’ll be glad to consider posting them (anonymously?) here.
July 18, 2017
Bad news for the USS Hornet. The Fourth of July event was to be one of its big fundraisers and instead it sank with a loss of about $40,000 because of a power outage over the west side of the island. Things were just starting to roll, when at 3:30pm the electricity went out for about 5 hours. Donations are being sought because the organization had already paid upfront for the entertainment, equipment, etc.
Last week, the Ray Simpson Band played to just over a dozen attendees at the Corte Madera Community Center. I’m at a loss as to why the Starduster Orchestra packs in a crowd (around 100) at Mill Valley Community Center with a fee and Ray Simpson does not and is free.
The pluses and minuses are:
Cost: Mill Valley is $10 (plus tip), Corte Madera is free
Floor: Mill Valley wins with a artificial wood rec room floor, over the CM concrete floor
Time: MV starts at 7:30pm on a Tuesday, CM starts at 8:00pm on a Wednesday
Music: IMHO: MV has the slightly better band – both have roughly 16 members
Half time: MV has recorded dance music during the band’s break
Seating: MV has chairs and tables, CM just chairs (tables take up space)
Snacks: MV has slightly less variety and quantity than CM
Parking: Both have free parking; MV has more spaces
Location: Both are about the same distance from Hwy 101 in Southern Marin
Frequency: Starduster plays 10 times a year, Ray Simpson plays 11
So, as you see by my analysis and personal opinion, Mill Valley is the better venue, but not that much, which, in my mind, doesn’t account for the large disparity in turnout. Is the concrete floor just that bad? I’d love to hear your opinion.
BTW: both bands are now on Summer break and will return in September.
July 11, 2017
Chris and I were in the Big Easy last week. We were able to eek out a Hustle – once, and that is all the dancing we did. No, that’s not true! At the luggage area at the Oakland Airport, frequently heard is a gentleman in 1910s attire (straw hat and all) playing a keyboard. While waiting at the carousel, we did an East Coast Swing.
Stompy Jones is no longer playing at Lake Merritt Dance Center. Fans of the band can find them next at Rancho Nicasio July 28. Did any one see them on the USS Hornet Independence Day?
While on the subject of Lake Merritt Dance Center, the listings for dances on the web page has been drastically reduced.
Presidio Yacht Club has no listings on its web page for music, though I know the Lonestar Retrobates play there every second Sunday of the month.
Remember, there are no dances this month at either the Margaret Todd Center or Mill Valley Community Center.
July 4, 2017
Correction: Manny Gutierrez has NOT been performing for “a good forty years.” Toni writes, “This year he will have been playing 63 years.”
Dear Ladies...Chris, Wayne's wife here. Some lady friends were lamenting the lack of dance partner requests. I'd like to make some suggestions: “Lady in Red” is more than a good Night Club Two-Step song. It is also a way to produce a dance request. The other evening at the Mill Valley dance, I realized that across the room and through the crowd, a seated lady stood out – solely because she wore red. This made me think of other tips besides being visible beyond bright colors:
Wear dance shoes, many men notice the purpose – not so much the design or style.
Show you can dance—Don't sit out dances early. Once the gentlemen can see you dancing they will notice your style and will come clamoring for it. (Wayne says this matters a lot and really works.)
If sitting, show interest in the music, tap your foot, sway; show you feel the music.
Stand up and be near the perimeter of the dance.
Smile.
Ask for a dance. This is the 21st century.
Back to Wayne …
In reviewing the Lake Merritt Dance Center website, I’m sorry to report many of the dances have been dropped (Tangos, Tea Dance, Ballroom, etc.), the website calendar has few listings.
Allegro has dropped the Bachata practice on Wednesdays.
Presidio Yacht Club’s website is void of bands; though I suspect some weekend activity, such as the Lonestar Retrobates, who play on the second Sunday of each month – which, by the way, is a pretty good band, playing at one of my favorite dive bars.
Balancoire (S.F) is abruptly closing for renovation and restructuring. Cats Corner will find a new location for the July 19 dance. I’ve not yet heard from the Ra Milonga people.
More bad news, the Fenix website is down, so no postings about them in Wayne’s Window.
Will it ever end?! Shades of Blue website is down. Please confirm before going out.
Reminder: No dances in July or August at the Mill Valley Community Center and the Margaret Todd Center.
Here is a ray of sunshine: The Flamingo Lounge (Santa Rosa) has added a Thursday Salsa & Bachata lessons and dance.
June 27, 2017
If you know of any venues that I should consider, please pass them along, and/or have them contact me. Contact info is available at the "Contact Me" tab on the far right above.
Tuesday, over 100 dancers and listeners filled the Mill Valley Community Center for one last dance before the Starduster Orchestra takes their summer break. Everything was “right.”
Friday, Chris (being in Chicago) loaned me one of her girlfriends and we dropped in at Dance Arts for the Quick Step workshop. Christian and Jamie taught it well to a group just large enough that we didn’t crash into each other. We stuck around for the general dance, then left early to another venue.
Field report: Dance Arts is a Marin icon, over 30 years of teaching dance in San Rafael. Lessons throughout the week are so varied in type and level. Free parking is abundant.
Later that same night, we were at the Sausalito Seahorse listening to the 7th Sons. We adapted to the 60’s and 70’s rock, using EC & WC Swing and Latin dance. More than half the crowd were freestylers. We had enough room to do tight patterns.
Field report: I’ve become a fan of the 7th Sons trio. They play the music I grew up with to near perfection. I’ve never been disappointed in their sound. Expect the dance crowd to be weighted in freestyle. Sausalito Seahorse has a brick floor that is surprisingly danceable. The food is “good” and service is “bareable.” There is free congested street parking, but I’ve been lucky finding a space in the lot hidden behind the restaurant.
Cream’s “Sunshine of Your Love” is a Cha Cha?! Desperate to have at least one dance, I found an agreeable lady, we made it a Cha Cha Saturday night at the Sausalito Seahorse. The sextet, MarInfidels, were playing 70’s rock, and virtually everyone was freestyling, and if you know me, I look like a spastic monkey when I try.
Field report: MarInfidels (get it? Marin + fidels) is a “good” band if you like 70’s rock, but expect a freestyle crowd.
Earlier that night, I dropped in at the Lighthouse (Strawberry/Mill Valley). I had only seen Doc Kraft once, in concert, a long time ago at Dunphy Park. The five of them started out flat, the men singing were weak and the musicality was only slightly better. After the opening four sounds, I was asking myself why this band had a known dedicated following. On the sixth number, the female vocalist joined them. They rose to life. She set a spark to the music, and they took off. Soon dancers filled the floor (mostly freestyle) and the band seemingly feed off them and got even livelier.
Field report: Doc Kraft plays the oldies that one can do East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing and Night Club 2-Step. Expect the majority of the dancers to be freestylers. The Lighthouse is about 5 minutes east off Hwy 101 with a view of a cove in Richardson Bay. I’ve always been happy with the food and service. There is no cover charge, so please be extra generous tipping the bands. Parking is free and abundant.
Sunday, solo, I started with a visit to the San Rafael Community Center where the Manny Gutierrez Quartet plays on the last Sunday of every month. This is a Goldenaires event, so it comes as no surprise that the average age is in the mid-seventies. Manny plays a wide variety of music but seems to favor the Foxtrot. $10 gets you in, and there are enough goodies and snacks to make a meal. Free parking on the lot.
Field report: Manny has been playing a good forty years and has a rigid play list for the dance crowd. Expect a little of everything, including a Line Dance and Polka.
After that, I drove south east to Livermore (without traffic it is 1 hour from San Rafael) to the Castle Rock Restaurant. The Take Two duo out did some quartets in versatility and quality. Since the dance floor was a medium-long rectangle, traveling dances were difficult and the band realized it by keeping the majority of dances stationary. There were lots of East Coast Swing, Rumba, Cha Cha, etc., with a smattering of Foxtrot and one Waltz. I joined the table of Joallyn Bohn’s students. She is an instructor at Two Left Feet (Danville). She and her students socialize outside of the studio. I found this concept refreshing and delightful, or maybe it was the friendliness of the people that made it so fun. I would encourage instructors to consider following suit.
Field report: Drive time is the deal breaker, but in reality not much further from San Rafael than it is to Napa or Santa Rosa. The duo, Take Two, gave a solid, flawless performance deserving more than the $8 entry fee. Castle Rock food was “good,” service was “very good.” It also has a full bar. Free parking in the lot.
June 20, 2017
Last Thursday night Chris and I dropped in at 19 Broadway to see Kool Whip, whose name I’ve been seeing for quite a while, and here was a chance to see them without a cover charge. The quartet plus a talented female singer played classic rock: Journey, Led Zeppelin, Bee Gees, etc. The 15’ x 20’ x 25’ triangle dance floor had only 2-3 freestylers making it was near empty this night, allowing us to get in a Cha Cha, EC & WC Swing and a Hustle. Over half the music was best danced to by freestyle.
Saturday we checked out Eagle’s Hall in El Cerrito. Without much traffic it was less than a 20-minute drive from San Rafael. The layout reminded me of the Santa Rosa Moose, what with a (non-air conditioned) hall with wood dance floor, separate bar and kitchen (no food was served this night). I saw a dozen couples or more dancing with comfortable space (more room could be gained by moving/removing tables). A pitcher of cold water was always available on this hot evening, and adult beverages were available for purchase at the bar in the other section. The six-member band Hot Rod Jukebox played mostly 50’s rock. Virtually all the songs were East Coast Swing/Lindy. A few songs slowed down enough for a West Coast Swing; no Cha Cha, Rumba, etc. The music was great, though singing was not their strongest suit. I say a “GO” for the oldies and Swing. It is easy to get to and offers lots of free parking.
Sunday, we drove (45 minutes from San Rafael) norht to Jack London State Park to see over two hours of Broadway Under the Stars, a non-dance event. My advice: go see it! It runs through July 2. I recommend Premium Seating for the better seat cushions and preferred parking. Even with preferred parking, we skipped out during the last number; I suspect those who used the shuttle may have had a long wait. Wine and food is sold there (save $2 and bring your own plastic cup). Other shows by this troop will also play at the Winery Ruins.
June 13, 2017
Two bands are taking Summer vacation from their Marin venues. In other words, dance this month, because they won’t be back until September. Starduster Orchestra at the Mill Valley Community Center and People of Note at the Margaret Todd Center.
Ray Simpson Band at the Corte Madera Community Center plays in July, but will take August off.
From the trenches: Jon recommends the Oaktown Strutters as a band to watch for. He saw them at the Terrace Room in Oakland. He liked how this NEW band focused on the dancers. As I’ve reported previously, I like the ambiance and food there and never had a problem finding free street parking within two or three blocks.
Michael and Phia went to Temple of Israel in Alameda to dance to Dave’s Swingtime Big Band (4th Monday of each month). They liked the band and dance floor plus the location was not difficult to find. The report is that the place was almost empty. Sounds to me as a great opportunity to dance without having to worry about being bumped into.
No dancing: but this caught my eye. Throughout August, in the Napa Valley, classical music will be performed at various vineyards. http://www.musicinthevineyards.org/
“The Summer of Love Experience: Art, Fashion and Rock & Roll” is an exhibit at the de Young Museum through August 18 (free the first Tuesday of every month). http://deyoung.famsf.org/
In the same vein, at the California Historical Society at 678 Mission in S.F, is similar exhibit through September. https://californiahistoricalsociety.org/exhibitions/summer_of_love/
While I’m on a roll … Broadway Under the Stars at Jack London State Park (Sonoma) is where we’ll be Sunday. https://transcendencetheatre.org/broadway-under-the-stars/
June 6, 2017
Montreal Swing Riot is a dance event that promotes Lindy Hop, good swinging jazz and street culture.
Thanks to Mary DeLave for finding “Swing Riot Invitational Battle Part 3” when Lindy Hoppers dance to Hip Hop and Street dancers Break dance to Swing music.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7O6kPEPOoaE&ab_channel=montrealswingriot
Word of the day: “bailongo” Spanish adjective for “dance.” e.g. musica bailongo: music for dancing or music you can dance to. I found “bailongo” being used on web pages for Argentine Tango.
Speaking of Tango, I’ve found a few more Practicás and Milongas to add to my list.
May 31, 2017
Dancing on cruise ships is great for the ego. Chris and I just spent two weeks on the Aegean Odyssey, a small 350 passenger cruise ship with an equally small 8 x 20 oval dance floor. Not a problem – we were the only ones consistently on the dance floor. Those who know me know I’m a good Bronze dancer; well-let-me-tell-you, our fellow passengers were complementing us to high Heaven, even asking if we are pros (ha-ha). Chris and I kept telling them “You should see our friends back home!” We’ve experienced the same on other ships in the past.
Attached are two weeks of dances I’m aware of in the North Bay and beyond. Use caution, I’m writing this with serious jet-lag – please double-check for accuracy.
While failing my research on free “Friday Nights at the de Young,” I did come across a wonderful web site listing all types of free events in the Bay Area: sf.funcheap.com
I’m sure the Presidio Yacht Club is having music, but the website is void of any listings.
Follow up about Servino in Tiburon: management moves tables (like Sausalito Seahorse) to accommodate the dancers. The last dance had room enough for 6 to 7 couples doing Swing.
May 9, 2017
Do me/us a favor, help pruf-read my venue list. If you find a misspelling or wrong price or especially a wrong time – get back to me so I can tell the others. Waynes_Window@comcast.net
Another long list this week – over 300 venues. Yup, Wayne is going on another trip. The next Wayne’s Window won’t be until the end of the month.
Looking at Allegro’s schedule, I see they are slipping in some live music for certain dance parties. I’ll note all live music in italics.
A favorite of mine, the Presidio Yacht Club, has a website that drives me bonkers. It is often out-of-date or no listings. When bands are listed, there is no mention of genre. Thursday nights have evaporated – Maria has not been sending out emails or posting on the site.
A new venue in Marin have been added: Servino in Tiburon, I’m told has a dance floor for 18 to 20 dancers.
This looks like a deal! The Belrose Theater is having on the second Wednesday of the month (May 10) an $8 dinner and Ragtime Band with “dance if you like.” I won’t be able to make it, but could someone check it out and report back? Thanks.
We welcome to these pages, SoCo Tango. This Argentine Tango Club has Practicás and Milongas in Santa Rosa near the JC at the Odd Fellows Hall.
Flamingo Lounge has added Bachata lessons and dance on Thursdays. Lessons start at 7pm, open dancing starts at 9pm. $10 cover charge includes lessons and dancing.
No dancing at Ghiringhelli Pizzeria, but fun to listen to is the Natural Gas Jazz Band. They usually play the second Sunday of each month in the afternoon.
May 2, 2017
Margaret Todd Center (Novato Parks and Recreation) is teaching beginning ballroom dance on Wednesday nights. This Fall, they will also offer Tap on Tuesdays. While on the subject of Margaret Todd Center, we attended the Tuesday monthly dance. It is in central Novato, about 5 minutes off Hwy. 101. The wood dance rec. room floor could easily handle 20 couples or more, but this evening, 5 couples were the most on the dance floor at any one time. Oh, there were more people, but well over half the attendees sat while enjoying the cookies and coffee. 50% of the music played by People of Note was Foxtrot, some Waltzes, a couple of Swing tunes, one Tango, a couple Rumba/Bolero and a Samba. As mentioned before, each table has a much appreciated song list with the suggested type of dance.
I am tickled to find another dance studio in Marin, BodyVibe Studio. Many of you may know Andrea Nelson-Novak (formally Bay West), who teaches there on Tuesday nights. In conjunction with Suzie’s Studio, there will be First Friday dance parties at BodyVibe.
Besides having their own, the two studios have a joint website. The Marin Calendar is comprehensive in listing Marin (including competitors’) beginner/intermediate dance lessons, plus a few dance parties. I suggest you bookmark: http://www.comedancemarin.com
While on the subject of studios, I’ve added one in Petaluma to the Learn portion of my website: www.wayneswindow.com. Say “hi” to Helen Andrade’s Steppin’ Out Dance; at this time it is lessons only – no practice sessions nor parties.
Last Saturday, Chris and I dropped in at the Lighthouse Bar & Grill on Strawberry Point (Mill Valley) to listen to Sweet City Blues (formerly The Full Tilt Band). The danceable, kicky band drew in many followers, plus a regular crowd and the place was near full. Yet, the talented dancers didn’t crowd, allowing upward of 10 couples on the small dance floor (a little overflow onto the adjacent slate floor). Sweet City Blues churned out mostly Swing with a few Latin and Night Club 2-Step numbers while we were there. It was my pleasure to dance with half-a-dozen guests. Ladies, if you see me, come over, say “hi” and let me know if you’d like to dance – Chris doesn’t bite, unless you like that sort of thing.
