THE PAST Summer Swing Studio was opened by the Principal, Marcia Summers, in the state of Western Australia in the November of 94 . The purpose of this studio was to teach and develop the styles of dances under the banner of Rock'n'Roll, both socially and competitively. Rock'n'Roll Dancing has been, and still is, a great way to meet people and an interest for those who wish to make it their sport. The studio strives for excellence in its dancers in this area. Over the years of being in WA, the studio has produced more than its fair share of Competition Champions. They have not only won here in WA, but also in interstate competitions such as the following: 1995 - South Pacifics 1996 - La Classiques Adelaide, SA. 1997 - Crown Casino Championships Melbourne, VIC. 1998 - Southern Star Adelaide, SA. 1998 - Crown Casino ChampionShips Melbourne, VIC. 1999 - Southern Star Adelaide, SA. 1999 - Crown Casino Championships Melbourne, VIC. 1999 - Australasian Championships, NSW. 1999 - Master's Games, QLD 2000 - Southern Star Adelaide, SA. 2001 - Crown Casino Melbourne, VIC. 2002 - Rock'n'Roll Masters, QLD 2002 - Rock'n'Roll Rockabilly National Championships Windsor, NSW 2003 - Rock'n'Roll Rockabilly National Championships Windsor, NSW 2004 - World Rock'n'Roll Freestyle Championships, QLD. 2004 - Crown International Grande National Rock'n'Roll Championships, VIC. Presently dancers from the studio hold the Titles in the following catergories: Juvenile Junior Youth Adult Over 35's The studio is proud of the dancers that have attained such excellence in the sport of Rock'n'Roll and will continue to teach at this level, socially and for competition . The sport and development of Rock'n'Roll will continue to be the main objective of this studio. Training and the development of teachers to a professional level of accreditation is also an important part of this studio's criteria . 1994-2004 The studio continued to train and teach all styles of Rock'n'Roll and was always open to new and wonderful suggestions from either its students or social dancers. Over the past years the development of the dancers started to show through and stands equal to any of the Eastern States, which have led the way in Rock'n'Roll previously. The future of Rock'n'Roll in Western Australia will continue to grow and develop especially with talented and bright young teachers paving the way. We have noticed a greater increase in the competition dancers. They journey from Geraldton, Bunbury, Albany and this is great. NEWS FLASH To all students With the resignation of so many prominent professionals from almost every state leaving the A.D.B. and joining Dancesport Australia, it poses the question " WHY "??? To date this is un-answered in the dance scene, both in Ballroom and Rock'n'Roll. It will be interesting to see what will be offered to the dancers and professionals by these bodies. I suppose only time will give us an indication as to what will eventuate. Whatever may be decided let's hope it has the professional dance studios, existing societies, dancers and members' interests foremost at heart. I hope that the fragmentation which exists within the industry will "one day soon" be rectified. Let's hope so. A word from the Principal. As a dancer myself, I know it is a wonderful feeling to be able to dance well. Especially if you have a partner who shares your love of this social activity. If you have the confidence to get on the floor and dance in public, then you also have the choice of how you wish to dance; either well, great or fantastic. This is up to the individual and the time and effort you are prepared to put in yourself, as an individual dancer. But above all, the most important thing to remember is Dancing should be FUN!!!! Additional News To date, Dancesport Australia seem to have done very little for the Rock'n'Roll side of the industry; or the amateur dancer. You would think that, as they hold the World Rock'n'Roll Confederation Membership, they would at least put in the effort to get this dance form up and running under their umbrella. Why has this not happened??? It has been my experience at two interstate competitions that the amateur dancer has to spend their own time and money for their lessons, buying costumes, training, fundraising etc; yet while given a trophy for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place; only get a piece of paper without even their name or event written on it for 4th, 5th and 6th place. Meanwhile, professionals are receiving PRIZE MONEY for 1st place of over $1,000. Surely it would be feasible to assume that the organizers can take into consideration that the amateur dancer has often travelled interstate for this competition, and give ALL minor placings a trophy; maybe by reducing the prize money for the professional (after all these are "AMATEUR COMPETITIONS"). Many amateur dancers that compete in competitions all over the country, are disgusted by the way they are treated; especially the Rock'n'Roll dancers. At some of the competitons, they seem to be herded through the events "like cattle through a yard". There would seem to be a lack of respect for this form of dance, which I myself find appalling. Every dancer deserves the respect and recognition of being a competitor (even if they may be a bad one). The money that is collected for their entry is the same colour, and without these entries the amateur competitions would not run. There are many members of this industry who see the injustice that is being committed towards the amatuer dancer. Let's hope Dancesport "sees the light" and DOES SOMETHING positive. Changing the subject, remember Studio Teachers are alway's available to assist any dancer with their personal development. The quality of our instruction, in the technique and mechanics of dance with movement, is a priority within this studio. Dancers wishing to improve, should contact us. THE FUTURE The future of Rock'n'Roll in Western Australia is in a healthy condition with studios and teachers performing their duties and teaching the different styles of Rock'n'Roll. By working together over the next decade the Industry of Rock'n'Roll will continue to grow. It is unfortunate for me that my health is not what it should be and the decision to return to the eastern states is one of the main reasons for my departure . I believe that the state of Western Australia has enough experience to continue without my input. I will be relocating the studio to the Northern part of New South Wales and while able, will continue the development of Rock'n'Roll. I have enjoyed my Ten Years here in W.A. and hope that the contribution I have made has been constructive. Good Luck to all teachers and dancers. I hope you enjoy your dancing as much as I. Long Live Rock'n'Roll - Marcia Summers |
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