Head To The West End To See A World Famous London Musical! Posted By : Andrew Tomkins

By: Andrew Tomkins
Post Date: 2010-03-23 London musicals are world famous, with established productions enjoying long runs in London's best theatres. From comedy and dance to mystery and drama, the choice of musicals in London is superb. Book today to see a London musical and experience the magic of London theatre

Les Miserables

As London's longest running musical, Les Miserables is perhaps the most famous of all London musicals. Having enjoyed a hugely successful 25-year run, Les Mis continues to draw the crowds to London's Queen's Theatre. This epic tale of love and destruction features an incredible score and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Billy Elliot the Musical

Prepare to tap your toes and stamp your feet along to one of the liveliest London musicals! Billy Elliot the Musical is a superb adaptation of Stephen Daldry's hugely successful film. With music by Elton John, the show is as popular with London theatregoers today as it was when it first opened in 2005 at London's Victoria Palace Theatre. This much-loved London musical has won a string of awards during its 5-year run, including Best New Musical.

Mamma Mia!

For one of the ultimate feel-good London musicals, take a trip down the aisle with Mamma Mia! Its 11-year run in London's West End has seen audiences young and old dancing and singing along to Abba's greatest hits. This musical extravaganza is currently playing at London's Prince of Wales Theatre.

The Phantom of the Opera

Andrew Lloyd Webber's must-see London musical The Phantom of the Opera has been enjoyed by millions worldwide since it first opened in London's West End in 1986. Renewed interest in this timeless musical is now expected, as its much-anticipated sequel, Love Never Dies has recently opened at London's Adelphi Theatre.

We Will Rock You

Prepare to rock out at Ben Elton's fantastic musical, which is based on songs by legendary British band Queen. We Will Rock You is one of the most popular London musicals. It has also become the longest running musical at the Dominion Theatre, one of London's largest theatre venues. As well as delighting London audiences, We Will Rock You has also enjoyed a successful UK tour.

The Lion King

A firm favourite with London audiences of all ages, The Lion King is a fantastic musical adaptation of the Disney classic. With amazing costumes and uplifting music by Elton John, this London musical's not to be missed! The Lion King has remained at London's Lyceum Theatre since its West End debut in 1999.

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Five Reasons to Go and See Chicago: The Musical Posted By : Andrew Tomkins

By: Andrew Tomkins
Post Date: 2010-03-01 The drama begins in Act One in which Roxie Hart murders her lover, Fred Casely, and subsequently attempts to blame her bumbling husband Amos for the slaughter (though she is soon found out and arrested). It's in the cell blocks that we are treated to the infamous musical number "Cell Block Tango," in which several other murderesses sing of their crimes.

Other characters introduced are Matron "Mama" Morton, a corrupt prison warden with a favors-exchange system via which she provides mutual services to prisoners, and Velma Kelly, a vaudevillian charged with the double homicide of her adulterous husband and back-stabbing sister.

Velma and Roxie soon find themselves in a struggle to win the limelight of fame which Roxie ultimately wins when she manages to steal Velma's lawyer, the renowned Billy Flynn, who spins the truth concerning the murder of Fred Casely ("They Both Reached for the Gun") and makes Roxie the toast of Chicago at the expense of Velma Kelly's now-obsolete name. Roxie turns down Velma's passionate request to recreate her former sister act ("I Can't Do it Alone"), only to find that the latest crime to make headlines has all but caused Roxie's name to vanish from the public eye as well.

Act two remains just as sordid an affair: Roxie has decided to earn her fame back by announcing a false pregnancy to the press, who begin to fawn over her once again. Amos is delighted by the unexpected news but we eventually learn that he is severely disheartened by the failure of anyone including his own wife, who is supposedly pregnant with his child to notice him ("Mr. Cellophane").

Meanwhile, Billy Flynn calms Roxie's growing anxiety about her upcoming trial with the witty number "Razzle Dazzle," assuring her that everything will turn out fine as long as a proper show is put on for the jury. As promised, Roxie is acquitted, but yet another crime of passion makes news and the blood-thirsty press abandons Roxie's story in pursuit of it. Billy Flynn also leaves, having done his part in the case. Amos is the only remaining character in Roxie's now-vacant life, and even he is driven away by the news that there is, in fact, no baby. With nothing left of their former fame, Roxie and Velma team up to begin a new double act that shakes Chicago down to the core all over again.

The entertainment value of the story alone is reason enough to see this show, but for those who want additional motivation, here are five reasons to go see Chicago: The Musical:

1. The Music
Guaranteed to keep you interested, each number in Chicago is based on a traditional vaudeville act; many of them are even inspired by particular famous vaudeville performers, such as Judy Garland and Mae West. The score itself was composed by John Kander, winner of the Tony, Laurence Olivier, Emmy, and Grammy Awards.

2. The Awards
Chicago: The Musical itself has been the winner of a number of awards, including eleven Tony nominations in the 1976 original run of the show and a Tony in 1997, the Drama Desk Awards, Outer circle Awards, and Drama League Award. An Academy Award-winning film adaptation of the musical was released to much critical acclaim in 2002.

3. The Choreography
The musical Chicago has become synonymous with its choreography, engineered by praised choreographer Bob Fosse, who himself has won eight Tony Awards for his work. Of particular interest here are the numbers "Razzle Dazzle," "Cell Block Tango," and "We Both Reached for the Gun."

4. The Staging
Sets, design, choreography, and sheer visual spectacle for this production are unparalleled and the show often breaks the fourth wall, drawing the audience into its visceral world.

5. The Idea
If nothing about musicals enraptures you, then the intellectual fodder laid out by the themes in the story of Chicago: The Musical is enough to get anyone's mind working. Chicago isn't shy about pointing out how glamorized criminals become once they enter the public eye, nor does it refrain from the central theme that people everywhere are absolutely in love with scandal, no matter how depraved.

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A Guide to Finding the Best Discounted West End Theatre Tickets Posted By : Andrew Tomkins

By: Andrew Tomkins
Post Date: 2010-03-04 Purchasing tickets to a West End Theatre performance can be simple but it's crucial that you know for sure that you're getting the best deal possible when purchasing tickets to a show. This article will be directly related to where you can find the best discounted tickets for performances at London's famous West End Theatre. While also giving advice on how to be sure you're receiving safe and reliable ticket purchases.

When visiting London it is crucial to see a show in the famous West End Theatre district. The West End Theatre is a professional theatre that represents one of the first public theatres. It is known as the highest level of public performance theatre in the entire English speaking world. The first permanent theatre was built in 1576 and was used by William Shakespeare's theatrical company. The West End Theatre is commonly referred to as Theatreland for its vast production of plays. Although a large majority of theatres in West End are playhouses that receive productions from all over the world there are also a large number of established producing theatres.

One option when booking theatre tickets is to combine tickets with hotel fees at a discounted price. It can be a tremendous deal if you are visiting London and need a place to stay for the duration of your vacation or if you would like to spend the night after the performance.

With online sites you can reserve your seats ahead of time and cut out the worry of getting tickets at the last minute and also view upcoming or current events being shown at theatre.

Another option to purchasing West End Theatre tickets is through an agent but If you chose to purchase your London Theatre tickets from an agent make sure that they are a reputable source. There are several agents that offer online discounted ticket sales which may be purchased in advance or on short notice but you must remember when purchasing tickets, to know the face value of the tickets. Ticket agents will charge a fee when booking your tickets but it should never be more than 25% of the face value on the ticket. Also be sure to look at a seating plan to make sure the seats you request are the ones you're purchasing. You may also purchase a seat that has a restricted view as these seats will be offered at a further discounted price. Once you finally decide to purchase your tickets be sure to look over final paper work and review it thoroughly to ensure all of the information is correct. This will protect your legal rights as a consumer.

The main thing to consider when looking for discounted theatre tickets are what you're getting for your money. Heavily discounted tickets could have a very restricted view or could be from an untrustworthy source. Touts should always be avoided as their ticket prices will never be as low as face value. Choose an online site that has plenty of information and is a secure site.

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The Difference Between Popping And Locking Posted By : Kevin Shwe

By: Kevin Shwe
Post Date: 2010-01-28 Locking is often confused with other dance styles, most notably popping. What is locking? Is it street dance, is it hip-hop dance, is it a funk style?

The answer to this question will draw different responses from different people. However it is generally accepted that it falls under the general 'street dance category.'

It's generally accepted to be part of hip-hop history and the wider term 'hip hop dance' to include locking, popping and breaking.

It is also termed under the 'funk styles' term which is probably the most precise if you want to give it a label.

Usually it's confused with popping because locking and popping both came into being at around the same time, locking coming just before popping in the late 60s. Also many of the early adopters of these dance styles would do performances incorporating both popping and locking in them.

However it is important to note that these are 2 completely different dance styles. When locking and popping are done in the same performance it is sometimes called 'pop-locking' a slightly ambiguous term which has drawn many voices into the discussion whether it's an appropriate term.

Politics aside, locking is deemed to be one style and popping is one style. Locking is generally a lot looser incorporating 'stops' where the movement is stopped before continuing in relation with the funk rhythms.

A lot of the time the postures are quite relaxed and muscles relaxed before they may strengthen up in the actual stops.

Popping on the other hand makes use of flexing or contracting and relaxing of muscles. Often the dancer is popping different parts of the body at the same time.

Both dances draw on certain key elements in their respective styles. For example in locking, 'stopping' the moves and grooving certain moves are prerequisites however the moves themselves may carry many forms and variations.

The same applies to popping, the technique of 'popping' the muscles is used in different moves which may look different but carry the technique of popping in their execution.

Whether to include both locking and popping, or just one of them in a performance is at the dancers' discretion. Usually they would need to have some level of proficiency in both styles to attempt this while many dancers like to base performances around one style.

Of course the best way to differentiate between the dance styles is to watch each of the styles in their own right. Watching a few videos of just pure locking or just pure popping will show you the stylistic elements and many of the popular moves that each style includes.

And then when you come to watch a performance that incorporates multifarious dance styles you can say 'that's some popping' or 'that's some locking.' Quickly followed by 'I know the difference between locking and popping.'

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Kevin Shwe (aka Strawberry KS) is a locking teacher and dancer in London, UK. He continues to educate people about locking since popping and locking are still often confused today. He runs classes and also offers a DVD 'Introduction To Locking' from his website http://www.lockingvideos.com/

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Learning Locking From Tutorials Posted By : Kevin Shwe

By: Kevin Shwe
Post Date: 2010-01-21 Locking continues to be a popular dance form today even if a somewhat underground movement. There are new people who are becoming interested in locking all the time and wish to learn some so they can do a bit for themselves.

Learning a couple of moves from a few tutorials on video websites is definitely a good start. This will start to expose you to some of the locking moves and you will know how to do them with a bit of practise.

However if you wish to take your locking further, it is important to further your education and take an approach that covers the whole dance form in more detail. This is something that can take time to achieve.

Many lockers learn for many years before they ever reach the sort of standard where they are confident performing to an audience or perhaps participate in locking battles or competitions.

The reason it is important to further your education is because locking is a very unique dance style that has its own vocabulary. It has its own performance style, way of doing things with that funky feel, unique rhythms and much more.

It takes quite a lot of exploring of the stylistic elements before you feel that you are really nailing them and actually dancing in a way that looks and feels funky to you.

The reason it takes time to reach this perch line is because an understanding of the dance is key. And once you understand what the dance is about, you also need the bodily understanding so your body knows what it's doing and to make the funkiness evident, so your dancing says something.

Education and practise is the starting place to allow these parts to come together collectively. For when they do something is achieved that is greater than the sum of its parts, something that's just so downright funky.

You must take yourself on the path to understanding the dance and continually explore this dimension as you do any new moves you learn. Whether you choose to learn from DVDs or in person with a teacher, you must pay close attention to the descriptions the instructors indulge you in.

The descriptions are the little details that make the difference. It is often said that the difference between success and failure is tiny. And the difference between understanding the dance and not understanding is tiny, but the visual output and results are miles apart.

One is the visual depiction of funk and the other is just plain empty vacuous moves...or simply put nothing.

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Kevin Shwe, otherwise known as Strawberry KS is a locking teacher from London whose locking tutorials often get thousands of views. He runs his own locking lessons in London and also has a DVD entitled 'Introduction To Locking.' Find out more about his DVD and tutorials at http://www.lockingvideos.com/

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Getting Detailed Locking Dance Instruction Posted By : Kevin Shwe

By: Kevin Shwe
Post Date: 2010-01-12 Getting detailed locking instruction either in person or through another method is necessary in order to sweeten your locking with many of its intricacies.

It is not uncommon for talented lockers to take many years to get to where they are; often the place where they start to feel real improvement is when they feel that they've harnessed a greater understanding of the style.

For at its core, it is quite simple once you understand things such as why you're stopping the movements in certain ways, but it may take a while before you can incorporate these into your locking and it actually feels like a normal thing to do rather than some burdensome operation.

Regaling in the music and just 'feeling' it is where many of us want to go. That place of expression where the moves just seem to come out effortlessly and stylishly. This is where you meet that thing called 'freestyle.'

In locking it is a skill to be able to freestyle as well as to dance routines. As it is a style that encourages your own personality and character there are elements that only you can bring to the dance that will come out when you freestyle.

Also freestyle encourages your own thoughts to come out right in front of you and is a process of continual development as you aim to be able to express what you feel at will, on command as soon as the music kicks in and just be there.

What getting detailed locking instruction does is drill many of the basics into you and in conjunction with the learning of routines that will enable you to really get these basics down. The details that enable the locking to come alive should be practised simultaneously with the moves so that they become interlocked and are not two disparate elements.

For the moves must have feeling behind them, you shouldn't be doing moves just for the sake of doing moves. They should be saying something; they should say something about how you are feeling in that moment.

And due to the creative expression element of locking, the way you do a move may not necessarily be the same as another but both can be a realization of that unmistakeable feeling where you feel funky and just want to dance and revel in the joy.

Just like no two people will have exactly the same thoughts, no two people will freestyle in exactly the same way. They may look similar when dancing a routine in unison as a group, but when freestyle is at play you each want to be your own thing.

When you are feeling the music and in the moment, your freestyle will often fuel its own creativity. It is easier to feel the music if from the moment you begin, the funk is present.

Many of the intricacies of locking allow for this - the stylistic elements should actually make the dance easier to perform rather than be a hindrance if you practise them right.

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Additional Articles From - Home | Industry Publications | Entertainment | ArtsAbout the Author:

Kevin Shwe (Strawberry KS) is a locking teacher and dancer from London, UK. As well as teaching regular locking dance classes he has also authored a locking instructional DVD 'Introduction To Locking' which grounds beginners in the basics of the style with a focus on the funk elements. Find out more about it at http://www.lockingvideos.com/

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Sail Into The Sunset - Build A Model Sailboat Posted By : Brian Jones

By: Brian Jones
Post Date: 2010-06-24 Get over the depression of not being able to own your own sailboat by making a small model sailboat instead.

Sailing is a way for man to reconnect with nature. Spending time at sea can be a magical experience for those who love the ocean and boats. Unfortunately, few of use can afford our own sailboat and have to make do with model sailboats instead.

The most obvious answer to the question of how to build a model sailboat is to buy a kit and construct your model from that. However, the designs available are limited to what the manufacturer produces. It's possible to draft your own design for a boat and make a model sailboat of your own.

Such projects are usually made from a lightweight and durable wood such as balsa. To begin your project, shape the hull of the boat by trimming off one end of an 8 inch long balsa wood block to form a symmetrical point. Define the bottom of the boat by shaving along the bottom of the boat to form an angled shape.

With the shaping done, the hull has to be sanded smooth with sandpaper. This allows its shape to be more well-defined. The angled bottom created earlier also has to be sanded so that its edge is rounded.

The sail support mast should be located in the center of the bow. A half-inch deep hole should be drilled in that marked spot in the hull of the boat. A wooden dowel, 0.25" in diameter, is cut down to 6 inches in height and sanded so that it is smooth. This will form the mast of the ship.

To install the mast, a generous application of waterproof glue is applied to the hole that was drilled earlier into the hull. The mast is inserted into the glue-filled hole and the excess is wiped away. Allow up to 24 hours for the glue to set, and assemble the sail in the meantime.

The sail is made from canvas or similar material that is cut to make an equilateral triangle of 4 inches. The sail is attached to mast with glue on one of its edges and the material is wrapped around the mast so that its edges are hidden. The rigging is made by gluing string to the mast where the sail is attached, with the other end of the string being attached to the hull.

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The Top London Theatre Shows and Comedies This Year Posted By : Andrew Tomkins

By: Andrew Tomkins
Post Date: 2010-03-17 Do you have a night of comedy or musical theatre in mind to spend some time with friends or family? Do you want to know what's hot in the west end entertainment and theatre scene? Then read this guide to the top London theater shows.

* Sister Act

Deloris Van Cartier, a popular disco diva finds herself in protective custody within the walls of a convent. Although not happy to be there at first, Deloris finds that she has a greater mission to reform a rundown neighborhood and save the voices of the sisters, she risks blowing her cover. Includes musical scores created by Academy Award Winner Alen Menkin and based from 1992 film starring Whoopi Goldberg. Cast includes Sheila Hancock, Patina Miller, Chris Jarmen, Ian Lavender, and more.

* War Horse

This is the story of a boy who refused to give up on his childhood horse, which has been shipped off to serve on both sides of World War. Therefore, as the boy sets off to search for his beloved horse, the scenes come alive before you as complex mechanics are used to create strong visualization with the centre puppets of the show.

* Mama Mia

Mama Mia is starring Hannah Robertson, Tanya Robb, Lucy Miller, Joanna Monro, and more. As a daughter daydreams of her love and huge white wedding, her single mum Donna, a spirited woman in her forties remembers her carefree times and even the careless nights she spent in her youth. She longs for a better life, and tells her tell while you hear her reminiscing to more than 20 of the best known songs by ABBA, including Money, Money, Money; Dancing Queen, Knowing Me Knowing You, and more.

* Grease

Featured at the Piccadilly Theatre, Grease is everything you missed in high school and it is set to a musical setting. Grease features songs including Sandy and Greased Lightnin', Hopelessly Devoted To You, You're the One that I Want, and more. Grease is starring Noel Sullivan, Siobhan Dillon, and more

* Wicked

One of the most successful musicals of all time within the London vicinity, Wicked includes a musical display of the relationship of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch. Wicked is based off of the original Wizard of Oz movie. Wicked stars include Alexia Khadime, Diane Pinkington, Oliver Tompsett, Harriet Thorpe and more.

* Billy Elliot Musical

In this musical tell, Billy uses the money his father intended to for his boxing lessons on a ballet class. Despite being the only male student on the ballet, Billy continues to secretly take this class until his father discovers his secret. His father forbids Billy to continue to take ballet lessons, but by this time Billy's ballet teacher has already discovered his talent and enrolls him in a school for talented dancing students. The Billy Elliot Musical is starring Fox Jackson-Keen, Tom Holland, Tanner Plueger, Brad Wilson and Joanna Riding, and more.

* Chicago

Starring Ruth Henshall, Jasna Ivir, Terra C. MacLeod, Ian Kelsey and David Ganley, Chicago is about Roxie Hart who dreams of the big time of fame and fortune. Roxie Hart does reach seeing her dream come true, but it's a bitter-sweet occurrence as she is caught for killing her lover. Does Roxie get away with murder and enjoy her fame? Find out what happens by seeing the musical Chicago.

Top Comedy

* Avenue Q

Avenue Q is starring Paul Spicer, Delroy Atkinson, Jacqueline Tate, Christopher Fry, Cassidy Janson, Jason Moore and Rachel Jerram. This "Pant Wettingly Funny" musical addresses serious issues including racism, being gay, internet porn, dating, and finding your purpose in life by combining a hilarious set of humans and puppets. Avenue Q is an adventure of fun, frolicking and a contagious adventure.

*39 Steps

John Hopkins, Stephen Critchlow, Natalia Walter, and Stephan Ventura are the key comedic stars in 39 steps. This "unstageable thriller" makes 150 roles come alive from famous film scenes of Alfred Hitchcock. 39 Steps includes famous scenes from Escape on the Fourth Bridge, the First Theatrical Bi-Plane Crash, and the Flying Scotsman, and Death Defying finale at the London Palladium.

* The Little Dog Laughed

The Little Dog Laughed is starring Gemma Arterton, Rupert Friend, Tamsin Grieg, Jamie Lloyd, and Harry Lloyd. In this Tony Award Winning play of Douglas Carter Beane's, this UK prepiere is about a handsome film actor who is coming out of the closet, while his agent, a ballsy and tough character, doesn't approve of him being so bold. The handsome actor falls in love with the rent boy who already has a girlfriend. You can find out where this love triangle leads to by seeing The Little Dog Laughed.

So now all that remains is to decide which to see!

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Locking - The Big Step Up Posted By : Kevin Shwe

By: Kevin Shwe
Post Date: 2010-02-01 The dance journey can be compared to a wave. There's your starting place perhaps inspiration, then there's the initial difficulty of learning dance steps followed by the high of eventually getting them. Then there's the big shock when steps get harder followed by the extreme glee of nailing the harder material.

That last little sequence is what we shall look at here, i.e. the step up from beginners/ basics to more complicated and advanced locking. This is the place that can really stymie you if you're not careful.

It is perhaps at this point you uncover all your unconscious obstacles as well as physical obstacles. It may be the first instance where you begin doubting yourself and your ability to succeed.

It is where everything comes out for in times of emotional upheaval this is often what happens. From this disequilibrium you will begin to see everything in the back of your mind, all the excuses and obstacles which may not have come out previously.

Things such as, "I'm not good enough" or "this is too difficult for me" or "I want to give up" or in the shape of doubts "can I really do this?" and "do I have what it takes?"

At this point if I were to add that this is where the dance journey will stop for many learners you probably wouldn't be surprised!

When we have all these doubts and obstacles laid out in front of us what we are really dealing with is pain or perceived pain. These are merely excuses to keep you away from more pain.

As Rocky Balboa beautifully stated, "It ain't about how hard you hit. It's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward."

There will be times when you can't do something, but that does not mean you will not be able to do it in future. You have to keep pushing forward, you must announce to yourself that you are not a quitter and stand tall.

Why do I think this is so important? Because I learnt these lessons the hard way. In previous ventures before dancing I was never a quitter but would beat myself up when I did not do well.

Why give yourself another obstacle? Instead what I do now is laugh it off. Not laugh it off in the sense of I don't care, but in the frame of "this doesn't matter that much" when you make a mistake whilst animated by taking steps to remove the obstacle and move forward.

So the way you conduct yourself is going to be another critical factor in the level of success you attain or fail to attain.

Your ability to attenuate doubts, make them inaudible or else strip them of their power as well as charge forward and go for what you want will have a pronounced effect on your final results.

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Kevin Shwe (Strawberry KS) is a dancer and dance teacher based in London. He continues to spread locking through his locking classes and also his DVD 'Introduction To Locking' which delves right into the basics and making locking funky. You can find exclusive videos at http://www.lockingvideos.com/

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London Musicals - Open on Sundays Posted By : Andrew Tomkins

By: Andrew Tomkins
Post Date: 2010-03-08 Going to see a musical in London on a Sunday used to be near impossible. But a new trend is emerging with more and more West End musicals now open on Sundays. Here are 5 top London musicals for a great end to your weekend

Jersey Boys

Beggin', Can't Take My Eyes Off You, Oh What a Night, Sherry, Big Girls Don't Cry... with so many hit tunes, it's no wonder Jersey Boys has scooped 21 major international awards including the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Jersey Boys is based on the true-life story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks in New Jersey who went on to become one of the most successful pop bands in history: Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Catch a 3pm Sunday performance of one of this London musical at the Prince Edward Theatre before it says Bye Bye Baby!

Hairspray

As London musicals go, Hairspray is a feelgood phenomenon, with big names, big songs and even bigger hair! Based on John Waters' hit 1988 film, Hairspray is bringing the swinging 60s back to London's Shaftesbury Theatre. The heart-warming tale centres around larger-than-life Tracy Turnblad who defies the odds to find fame on local TV dance programme The Corny Collins Show. But will Baltimore's new teen sensation win the show's competition and the man of her dreams? Head along to the Sunday show at 3pm to find out!

Thriller Live

Moonwalk down to the Lyric Theatre in London's West End and rediscover the hits of the man remembered as the greatest entertainer in the world, Michael Jackson. This dazzling, high-energy London musical show follows MJ's career from Jackson 5 star to King of Pop, recreating his most unforgettable moves and songs, including Beat It, Billie Jean, Thriller and many more. And with stunning multi-media effects, a live band and sizzling choreography, you've got even more reason to head along to one of the two Sunday performances (beginning at 3.30pm and 7.30pm).

The Lion King

Adapted from Disney's much-loved film The Lion King, this award-winning musical has been given a new lease of life on the West End stage, and is one of the most popular London musicals with families. A colourful feast with imaginative costumes, stunning effects and powerful rhythms, The Lion King has something for all ages. Set in the majestic Serengeti Plains of Africa, the story follows Simba on his moving and momentous journey from young cub to King of the Pridelands. Sunday showings roar into action at 3pm (or 2.30pm from 6 October 2010 onwards).

Legally Blonde: The Musical

Fluffy and fabulous, Legally Blonde The Musical makes the perfect end to a fun-filled weekend. The award-winning Broadway hit show, adapted from the much-loved film starring Reece Witherspoon, is currently painting London pink at the Savoy Theatre with shows every Sunday at 3pm. Join homecoming queen Elle Woods (played by Sheridan Smith) as she enrols at Harvard Law School after her ruthless boyfriend, Warner (Duncan James, formerly of chart-topping band Blue), dumps her for someone more serious. This London musical's criminally good fun!

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Add Pizazz to Jazz Outfits Posted By : Svetlana Marintcheva

By: Svetlana Marintcheva
Post Date: 2010-04-18 Just like its musical form, jazz dance is characterized by improvisational, impromptu and imaginative performances. Just as long as you know your dance technique, you can experiment with the movements to come up with new choreography to any old music. Jazz is one of the few art forms that allows for the melding of other dance styles like ballet, contemporary, acro, lyrical and hip-hop while also influencing these dance styles.

In the same way that the dance movements are imaginative, so are the jazz outfits. Typically, you choose your dancewear based on the dress code of the dance studio where you are enrolled in. For the most part, however, the preferred dancewear is usually tights and leotard coupled with jazz shoes. Jazz pants can also be worn and come in a variety of lengths. The important thing is that you can move comfortably in the outfit especially as jazz dancing is characterized by body contortions, leg splits and arm spreads.

And don't forget the leg warmers, either. You will need these knitted thingamajigs to keep your leg muscles protected from the cold during the warm-up exercises. Now if you are into mixing fashion and dance, you can go online or to a specialty boutique for the latest trends in jazz dance outfits. You can choose from a variety of colors and cuts as well as styles and sizes that it almost feels like being let loose in a candy store as a child.

And lest you think that jazz outfits are boring, think again. You can choose from float-y, flirty and flashy materials like chiffon and sequins, especially during dance recitals. You can feel feminine one moment and then masculine the next step with just a few flicks of the hand to remove or replace clothing attachments.

Now that the outfit has been settled, let's discuss the jazz shoes. You will most often be required to purchase these special shoes, which look similar to ballet shoes although with smaller heels, for your own protection while dancing. Plus, these shoes help in the smooth execution of the dance moves, especially in turning as well as in helping to keep your balance.

Jazz dance costumes are probably the most glamorous, glittery and goose bump-inducing attire of all the dance forms, thanks largely to the versatility with which you can mix and match the individual items. And so, whether you are dancing to a lyrical tune, dancing to a story or just plain dancing for self-expression, add pizazz to your jazz dance costume and feel the difference in your movements.

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Svetlana Marintcheva of Adagio Ballet is glad to offer a wide variation of lesson types, like jazz dance classes, at our dance studios located in Fairfax and Arlington Virginia. Stop by our site or call us today to learn more.

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Quick Laughs: The Best Short Jokes Posted By : Brian Jones

By: Brian Jones
Post Date: 2010-04-21 Humor is a good way to break the ice, and short jokes are particularly effective as they are easy to tell and easy to remember. Below are some of the best short jokes ever, from the silly to the sophisticated.

Love thy neighbor all through the day... But first make sure her husband's away.

In the 1st year of marriage, the man speaks and the woman listens. In the 2nd year, the woman speaks and the man listens. In the 3rd year, they both speak and the neighbors listen.

A man tells his wife that a man is like a fine wine; he always gets better with age. The next day, she locks him in the wine cellar.

There's a couple lying in bed. The man says, "I'm gonna make you the happiest woman in the world!" The woman answers, "I'll miss you."

A wife tells her husband, "Give me some money; I want to buy a bra." The husband replies, "What for? You have nothing to put in it!" Then the wife says, "But you wear shorts!"

A husband says to his wife, "When I'm gone, you'll never find another man like me." The wife answers, "Why would I want another man like you?"

A husband tells his wife, "You know, our son got his brain from me." The wife says, "You're probably right. I still have mine with me."

Why did the monkey fall out of the tree? Because it was dead.

How do you keep a fool in suspense? "I'll tell you later."

Why was the blonde staring at a container of orange juice? Because it said, "concentrate."

A guy walks into a video store and says, "Can I have 'Batman Forever?'" And the store clerk says, "No, you have to bring it back tomorrow."

What's the difference between chopped liver and pea soup? Anyone can chop liver, but not everyone can pee soup.

Light can travel faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them talk.

A patient says, "Doctor, I think I'm a bell." The doctor says, "Take these pills. If they don't work, give me a ring."

"Doctor, you have a patient here who thinks he's invisible." The doctor replies, "Tell him I can't see him."

"Doctor, I have a problem with my memory." The doctor asks, "When did it start?" The patient says, "When did what start?"

"Doctor, I feel like a pair of curtains." The doctor says, "Pull yourself together!"

A man calls emergency; "Come quickly," he says, "my little son swallowed a condom!" 5 minutes later, he calls back, "Its okay, I found another one."

Hopefully, this list of the best short jokes will keep the laughs coming as quickly as they are told. In conclusion, here are 2 more short jokes and one really long joke: Joke. Joke. Joooooooooooookkkkkkkkkkkkkkke!

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Locking Videos - The Best Place To Start Posted By : Kevin Shwe

By: Kevin Shwe
Post Date: 2010-02-02 With the advent of YouTube, there's been a very fast coming of age for many dance styles. Styles which are often considered somewhat underground such as locking, popping and breaking now have a much wider audience.

Due to the worldwide success and prevalence of YouTube you now have the opportunity to watch and learn from dancers that just a few years earlier you may never even have heard of. And as in any field, there are many talented people who are perhaps not household names that you can discover as well. I have experienced many instances where I've stumbled across a 'related video' to find a dancer or choreographer I knew nothing about but said to myself "I don't know who that was, but that sure was good!!"

So I sometimes get asked for my advice on where you should start looking when it comes to locking videos and dancers.
In my mode of thinking, the most natural and logical place to begin would be at the beginnings at the roots from the guys who created the dance, i.e. Don Campbell and The Lockers.

There may only be a handful of videos up there, though I do recall attending a Don Campbell masterclass (a good grounding in the history of the dance) and he had videos of locking footage he had. But from these OG videos you can glean where the dance started from with everything from what has become the classic locking uniform to the individual styles of each of The Lockers.

Watching this OG footage I would definitely recommend at some point, a few years ago you had the excuse of it being hard to find, now you can watch it if you have an internet connection! Apart from this historical footage which remains relevant, I really believe what is really important when looking at locking videos is to find people that inspire you.

For if locking is something you are serious about getting good at, then your endeavour will only be as strong as how inspired you can remain on your journey. And where does this inspiration come from? People whose dancing you find inspiring and also the dreams you hold for yourself.

While I could name some lockers worth watching, it is worth doing some discovering for yourself as there are many different style of locking. What's one person's button is another's zip.

If you find the dancers that make you light up and fly out of your seat eager with determination to learn what you're witnessing you're finding inspiration. The final message I would add is don't spend all day watching videos. If your true intention is to be good at locking, only you can do the work your inspiration cannot do the work for you.

It can fuel you up and start the engine but you've still gotta drive the damn thing. There is a vital distinction to be made: What you're after is inspiration not dependency.

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Kevin Shwe (aka Strawberry KS) is a locking dancer and teacher based in London. He continues to coach dancers through his locking videos, lessons and DVD 'Introduction To Locking.' Find out more about his exclusive videos at http://www.lockingvideos.com/

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Girls Just Wanna Have Fun with the Top Girly Musicals of London's West End Theatre Posted By : Andrew Tomkins

By: Andrew Tomkins
Post Date: 2010-03-24 London's West End is home to so many excellent musicals and what a great way to have a girls night out. Take your pick from our collection of some of the best theatre out there.

Chicago/ Cambridge Theatre

This one is an especially saucy production that many of the female persuasion will enjoy. A chorus girl named Roxie enlists the help of a sleazebag lawyer to get acquitted for murdering her lover. The movie was a huge hit in cinemas, and the theatre production will have you laughing and experiencing all types of other emotions throughout the entire two hours and fifteen minutes.

The Day Before Spring/Lilian Baylis Theatre

This semi-staged performance that was actually written in 1945 tells the story of a married woman who meets up with the man she almost made her husband back when they were younger at her college reunion. He still has feelings for her, which is documented in his current best selling novel.

Debbie Reynolds-Alive and Fabulous/Apollo Theatre

This is a fabulous girly type production for the more mature ladies. Movie and TV star Debbie Reynolds stars in a one woman show as she talks about her more than 50 years in show business, her amazing life of singing and dancing, and her many husbands. Actual MGM footage is included in the show which provides a sense of nostalgia.

Dirty Dancing/ Aldwych Theatre

This is one of the biggest girly movies of all time, and whether you have seen the movie or not you will appreciate the live musical. It includes all the hits from the 1987 blockbuster including She's Like The Wind, Time Of My Life, and Do You Love Me? along with some new numbers. The theatre production includes some of the movies most memorable moments, but it was re-written for the stage, meaning there will be some added scenes as well. The story of the vacationing Baby and the troubled dance teacher, Johnny, spawns a classic love story that is the epitome of love conquers all.

Grease/Piccadilly Theatre

The hit movie spawned one of the best selling albums of all time, and more than 20 years later is still one of the most recognizable films with some of the most well known songs of all time. The love story of Sandy and Danny is a two hour and ten minute production that will make you want to stay out all night. Hit songs include Sandy, You're The One That I want, Grease(Is The Word), Greased Lightning, and Hopelessly Devoted To You.

Hairspray/Shaftesbury Theatre

Big girl Tracy Turnblad from Baltimore has big hair and an even bigger heart. She gets her break at stardom living her dreams as a dancer on the local TV dance show "The Corny Collins Show". Transformed from geek to chic, she still has to try and win the heart of the hunky Link Larkin, vanquish the reigning princess of the local programme, and force the TV show to consider integration.

Legally Blonde The Musical/Savoy Theatre

Based on the movie starring Reese Witherspoon, homecoming queen and college sweetheart Elle Woods just doesn't know how to take no for an answer. She heads to Harvard Law School after being dumped by her boyfriend and proves to herself and everyone around her that being yourself is the only way to live. This is a fun choice to start your ladies night out.

Mumma Mia/Prince of Wales Theatre

What better setting for a girly production than a mother and daughter together on the night before the the girl gets married. The production is inspired by the songs of the group Abba. Just like the hit movie, this play has scenes that will leave you falling off of your chair in laughter.

Passion/Donmar Warehouse

Based on the book by James Lapine, this is the story of Captain Giorgio Bachetti. This military hero gets transferred to a remote and abnormal Italian outpost which whisks him worlds away from his beloved Clara. After meeting the cousin of his commanding officer, Fosca, inconceivable and shattering consequences arise stemming from her influence.

Sister Act/London Palladium Theatre

If your looking for something funny, you've found it. Deloris Van Cartier, a disco diva, ends up in a convent portraying a nun after witnessing a murder and being put into hiding by the police. She makes friends and fans among the students and fellow nuns, but what about Mother Superior?

These are some of the best girly productions playing at the West End theatres. Other productions that may be of interest to the ladies include Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, Sweet Charity at Haymarket Theatre Royal and Priscilla Queen of the Desert at Palace Theatre. When girls just wanna have fun, a trip to London's West End might be just the place to go.

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Book Your Theatre Tickets Now To See A Top New Musical In London! Posted By : Andrew Tomkins

By: Andrew Tomkins
Post Date: 2010-03-23 The West End presents some of the hottest new London musicals! With famous faces headlining exciting new productions at London's best theatres, there's never been a better time to catch a show. Here's our pick of London's top new musicals

Love Never Dies

Andrew Lloyd Webber's long-awaited sequel to his hit musical, The Phantom of The Opera, has taken London's West End by storm. Premiering at London's Adelphi Theatre, Love Never Dies continues the love story that made Phantom one of the most popular London musicals of all time. Don't miss the chance to see Christine and her masked mystery man reunited in London once again!

Legally Blonde the Musical

Forget painting the town red, London musicals just got a whole lot pinker since Legally Blonde burst onto the scene! Based on the hit film of the same name, Legally Blonde the Musical has brought a touch of glitz and glamour to London's Adelphi Theatre. This hilarious new musical stars Duncan James and Sheridan Smith and features catchy show tunes that are guaranteed to get you dancing in your seats!

Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical

Staring London musicals' West End favourite Jason Donovan, Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical is one of the most colourful and flamboyant musicals that London has ever seen! Based on an Oscar-winning film, this heart-warming musical has wowed the crowds at London's Palace Theatre since it opened last year. Having recently scooped a number of awards, including Best New Musical, Priscilla promises a truly fabulous night out in London.

All the Fun of the Fair

If you're a David Essex fan you won't want to miss his sparkling new London musical, All the Fun of the Fair, when it opens at the Garrick Theatre next month. This hot new show is a unique chance to see a musical legend return to the London stage. Inspired by his debut album, the musical will star David Essex himself performing some of his greatest hits. Tickets to see All the Fun of the Fair at London's Garrick Theatre are on sale now, book yours today!

Hair the Musical

Dig out your flares and platform shoes as peace, love and a cool 60's vibe is set to hit London! Hair the Musical will make its much anticipated return to the London stage next month, and it's sure to raise the roof at London's Gielgud Theatre. This feel-good musical has already caused a sensation on Broadway and it looks set to have the same effect on London! Plus, for the first time ever in the history of musical theatre, the full New York cast will transfer for the London musical's opening night. Book your tickets now to be part of the action!

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What's Hot in the West End? A Guide to the Top London Theatre Shows Posted By : Andrew Tomkins

By: Andrew Tomkins
Post Date: 2010-03-17 When visiting London, the first question you need to ask yourself if whether you want to see a musical, comedy or play and the second question which you must ask yourself is which show to attend! Anything that you could wish to see is always playing in London's West End. Just be sure to book your tickets ahead so you don't miss the shows.

Even if you have seen a production of a Musical in another country, London's West End can offer you another view of the same show. Many times the productions are varied enough that the show which you saw before is barely recognizable. If a new actress or singer is in the lead role of a production, the entire experience is altered into a fantastical one which will leave you delighted time after time. So be sure to check out what is available in London's West End and book ahead. You don't want to miss out on the show of the season.

So what's hot in the West End right now? Here is our Guide to the Top London Theatre Shows. There are several Plays, Comedies and Musicals which you can enjoy while visiting London. Here are some of the amazing shows which you might want to catch this season:

Adrian Grant's "Thriller Live" which pays homage to the late Michael Jackson. It is a live production that will make you remember the best of the "King of Pop's" greatest hits. The music is perfection and the choreography is just what is needed to make this event the show of the year. Do not miss out.

Maurine Dallas Watkins's "Chicago" staring Ruthie Henshall, Terra C MacLeod, Ian Kelsey, David Ganley and Jasna Ivir. It is one of the hits of the season which will leave you wanting more. The choreography by Ann Reinking is stunning. The cast is flawless and the costumes will take your breath away. It is one of the best productions of "Chicago" yet to date.

When it comes to Comedy you simply must catch Jason Moore's "Avenue Q". It is a fun and lively comedic show which everyone has loved from the start. "Avenue Q" is hip and young and the perfect thing to catch while visiting London's West End.

If you wish to catch a play while visiting the hippest part of London's best, then be sure to see Stephen Daldry's "An Inspector Calls". It is running at the Wyndham. This production reminds one of the days when a play had a special pleasure to it. This will make an evening in London's West End the perfect night event.

Also playing is William Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night". While you might have seen it elsewhere, if you've never seen it in London's West End then you haven't seen "Twelfth Night" at all. You simply must see this wonderful production of staring Richard Wilson, James Fleet, Richard McCabe, Nancy Carroll, Alexandra Gilbreath, Jo Stone-Fewings, Sam Alexander and Miltos Yerolemou. It is wonderful and a Classic to be enjoyed. It is playing currently at Duke of York's. London and Duke of York's is a perfect night out for you and that someone special.

At ticket vendors online there are often special offers to be had. Be sure to ask about the reduced prices for many productions. Also remember that booking ahead can often save you not only time, but money as well. Enjoy the night in London's West End this season for the shows that will make your Thespian Heart soar!

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Are You Learning To Dance Locking? Posted By : Kevin Shwe

By: Kevin Shwe
Post Date: 2010-01-25 Like undertaking the task of learning any dance style, learning locking takes time, practice and perseverance.

There is also another vital ingredient if you wish to take it to a high standard. And that ingredient heeds itself in the form of an understanding of the dance.

When you are a beginner you will be eager to charge towards learning the moves, which is understandable and in fact to some extent the moves do play a role in locking's signature style.

However possibly even more critical is to grasp and to understand the dance itself. For there is something that underpins even all these moves and it makes itself known in the form of 'funk.'

Funk is a vital ingredient of locking. It cannot exist without it. This is not talking even about funk being pervasive in your surroundings but having that funk inside you, so that is a part of you and your dancing.

Funk does not need to be surrounding you if you have the funk in you. You do not even need music to dance to if there's music inside you.

A prime example of the funk being with you is watching 'The Lockers' dancing to Swan Lake if you can ever get your hands on the footage or DVD. Swan Lake would not be classed as funk music by any stretch of the imagination, yet The Lockers are still funky when they dance to its soundtrack and make the performance work.

There are elements to locking that make it work and make it different from other styles. And this leads to why you should learn locking as a style in its own right.

Often elements of locking will be incorporated into choreographies that may include other dance styles but if you wish to learn locking to a high standard you really need to take the time to learn it on its own.

Figure out its structure and grooves, its touches and subtle flavours that make it unique. Once you can see why these elements are in place you can develop a bigger picture and begin to understand with greater clarity what you can bring to the dance.

You need to know what the 'rules' are before you can break them. Having said that 'rules' would be a rather terse term and is really being used to say 'what the dance embodies that makes it unique and makes it function properly'.

You want your locking to look like locking. And that comes from understanding all of these various elements that are characteristic of locking.

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Kevin Shwe (Strawberry KS) is a locking teacher that coaches students who want to learn locking through his classes, videos and DVDs. Find out more about his videos and lessons at http://www.lockingvideos.com/

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12 Tips For Choosing A Locking DVD Posted By : Kevin Shwe

By: Kevin Shwe
Post Date: 2010-02-17 A locking DVD can be an exciting purchase - for many people this event will highlight the beginning of their locking education. So I've decided to compile a list of my top 12 tips when selecting a locking dance DVD for learning purposes:

1. Search for a DVD that will help you learn how you are using your body as you dance, not just do the moves. You want to dance with feeling, not just be a man made robot capable of pulling off a few moves.

2. Aim to get hold of a DVD that will teach you how to be funky when you do the moves. It's all about the funk, whatever you do in locking has got to be funky and it's a big part of the dance.

3. See if you can get samples of the instructor's teaching style to make sure that it suits you. Teachers have different ways of explaining things and you are bound to find some that you are more comfortable learning from than others.

4. Learn from teachers that have expended a lot of time and energy into learning locking. In other words you want to learn from a teacher that will have some of their own knowledge to pass on, as opposed to someone that has learnt it as a fourth or fifth choice dance style.

5. Don't expect one DVD to teach you everything! One hour of teaching would just be skimming the surface.

6. Make sure everything is broken down for you. When you are in the learning stage, you want to know exactly what each part of your body is doing and when. You don't want to second guess!

7. Select the right level. If you are a beginner, start at beginners!

8. Make sure your instructor knows who Don Campbell is!

9. If you are buying a locking DVD, don't expect a popping and locking DVD unless it says that's what it is. A locking DVD will normally be just that - just locking included.

10. Make sure your instructor knows the difference between popping and locking!

11. Expect to work hard - don't select a DVD because you think it will keep you seated in your chair.

12. Do your own research. In addition to getting your hands on a DVD, learn about the history of the dance, get to lessons and learn as much as you can about the dance style you are studying.

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Kevin Shwe (Strawberry KS) is a locking teacher living in London, UK. He teaches many locking lessons, has his own locking DVD out and loves to share his love for locking with students everywhere. Find out more about him and his videos at http://www.lockingvideos.com/

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Do Locking Tutorial DVDs Have Anything To Offer? Posted By : Kevin Shwe

By: Kevin Shwe
Post Date: 2010-01-20 Locking is something that the more you get involved in it, the digger you deep and really immerse yourself in its milieu, the more satisfaction you will derive.

Unfortunately in many places around the world this level of detailed instruction in locking is just not available. If you're lucky enough to live in a city where there are teachers, you should with alacrity rush to them if they are respectable teachers and dancers.

So what of those of you who are not in line with such a blessing? The other option will be to learn from locking tutorial DVDs. Actually there aren't many locking DVDs out there which probably reflects its somewhat underground status and that there are less people who do locking than perhaps hip hop, salsa or other styles.

What locking DVDs have to offer is that they have a temporal advantage. A DVD may be an hour or two and in that time you can cover much more of the style and with more effectiveness than from a 5 minute tutorial.

Of course 1 or 2 hours is probably not going to be enough to turn you into a locking master, however a large part of the deal is practise. You will not master 1 or 2 hours of education in 1 or 2 hours. It will take many hours to really learn what you are taught in 1 or 2 hours.

Once you've learnt these moves you can then set forth exploring their relation with other moves and how you can combine moves together in fashions that may not be covered in the DVD.

The thing with locking is that mastering the basics is very important as you come back to these time and time again.

It is worth spending the time nailing the basics and getting them down rather than learning lots of moves without any real proficiency. For it's not about the moves, it's about HOW you do the moves.

This is pretty much an all encompassing rule in all of dance that you can internalize for yourself. It's the reason why two dancers can do the same move and one makes you go 'wow' and the other makes you want to put lemon slices in your eyes.

And this proficiency comes from paying attention to the details, which a DVD can do effectively. It can show you the many facets to a move rather than just the basic move.

The better you get, the more detailed you will have to get to find real improvement. So you're having to explore more and more to get to the real fabric of it.

What this also does is prepare you for more advanced material. More advanced moves often deal with bigger movements, hence if it looks wrong it will probably look really wrong as your arms and legs will be swinging all over the park!

If you've spent time mastering basics, you have that sensitivity and acuteness to detail that can then make these moves work without having to do extra trudging.

The acumen you develop from mastering the basics is a keen eye to detail, which is one of the bedrocks of all great dancers. It all starts with the basics.

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Kevin Shwe aka Strawberry KS is a locker and locking teacher based in London, UK. He is the author of the locking tutorial DVD 'Introduction To Locking' that helps beginners into the basics and funky elements of the locking dance style. Find out more about it at http://www.lockingvideos.com/

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Looking To Start Dancing Locking? Posted By : Kevin Shwe

By: Kevin Shwe
Post Date: 2010-02-10 So how do you learn locking, where do you start, what's the best way to go about it? All good questions that shall be addressed here in this quick article.

The thing to know about locking is that essentially it's about personal expression. It's about expressing what you want to do, doing what you feel like doing.

Of course before you can get to this point and be really creative, you really need to understand and know the dance beforehand. You need to know the dance, what it is all about, what makes it work and what makes it unique.

Once you've got this down and can do the dance then the real expression can begin, and you can start introducing your personality and character into the dance.

Before we can reach this destination of course, we must feed the stomach and educate ourselves about locking. And how do you do this?

Well you have several options. If at all possible try and learn in class from a teacher that knows their stuff. This is very effective as you can learn, ask questions and observe all at the same time.

The other main option is to learn from a DVD. This is also possible and can equip you with enough knowledge of the dance and the moves that you can then begin creating for yourself.

The thing that is important when learning from a DVD is that of course you need to do it, and not just watch it. Inside a class they'll have you working for a full hour or more, from a DVD you can't be lazy and have to get up and do it!

But if you're willing to give it a go, this can also be effective. It is also important that the DVD doesn't become a crux and videos become an endless search for new moves.

It's not about the moves, combinations or rhythms that other dancers are doing. It's about learning what you need to know, and then using this knowledge to do what you want to do.

One of the things I remember when hearing Don Campbell speak at a talk he held in London is that he chose the members of his dance crew because they were all individuals and danced uniquely.

He would for example watch one of the dancers and think, "I don't know how to do that but it looks good and it's locking!"

Once you know what you're doing, know what the moves are and how to make them funky then you've got knowledge. So now the quest is not to be identical to another dancer, but to be you and offer something of your own for the world to see.

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