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Letters to the (Assistant) A & E Editor
It was apparent from the time Shifty removed his shoes that we were in for quite a task. As we embarked upon the tutorial under the supervision of Dominic Figueroa, a freshman in the Columbia Dance department, Shifty’s slow-labored movements suggested that the rewards of an all night, eardrum-popping dance excursion at the Crobar may be more of a distant dream than an immediate reality. We knew we had our work cut out for us, but we went ahead anyway. Then, after five hours, a case of Red Bull, and a dozen pairs of sweat-soaked socks, week one of “Save the Last Dance, For Shifty” was a success. Working with Shifty’s arsenal of popular 80’s dance faves, the “Running Man” and the “Roger Rabbit,” Figuero helped Shifty incorporate these movements with activities that Shifty regularly performs. Since Shifty spends his days as a full-time truck driver for an Amish dairy company, the fruits from the enterprising young dancers labors are the instant classics “Driving the Car” and “Churning the Butter.” It was only by “thinking out of the box” that the dancing duo was able to provide us with a glimpse into the next frontier of the new dance revolution. But don’t worry, folks, this is just the beginning. Here are excerpts from Shifty’s latest correspondence: Dear Columbia Chronicle,… Damn, I think you guys are the bomb! I felt truly free when I was “Churning the Butter.” That was the first time that my hands, feet and pelvis moved as one. The “Dom man” (Figueroa) helped me get in touch with parts of me that I have never felt before! I knew my childhood on the farm would pay off. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to use those moves over the weekend because my mom was using the car, but boo-ya, I’ll be kick’n it for real when I “Drive the Car” all this weekend. I’d like to give props to all my homies at the Chronic (Columbia Chronicle), because you are all dope! I will never forget you guys. Peace,I’m sure I speak for all of us here at the “Chronic” when I say thanks for the “props;” but we are not through with you yet. I can tell by your tone that your confidence is up, but please Shifty, don’t get ahead of yourself. We have merely taken the first steps in a journey of a thousand miles. Although your moves are not quite developed enough for mass consumption, the steps that you do have are ample fodder for in-home practice sessions and perhaps the occasional showcase in obscure suburban bars; but I think you are doing a disservice to “the dance” if you share your moves prematurely with the general public. Please don’t be confused; those dance steps that Dominic showed you are just the foundation for your future dance empire, not the empire itself. Don’t worry; due to our ample resources in the Columbia College Dance Department, we will be able to further your development. With that, keep up the good work, keep practicing, and keep in touch. Thanks, I am speaking from the heart when I say that this experience has been as rewarding for me as it has been for the players. The warm glow that radiated from Shifty’s face, as well as the Chronicle staff, as he successfully maneuvered the difficult semi-circular arm movements of “Churning the Butter” really made me feel like I made a difference. For the readers of the Chronicle, please share the joy with us by viewing the video footage* of Shifty taking those first dance steps of towards a better tomorrow. Before long, we will all save the last dance for Shifty. *Approximately a 4 minute download, but definately worth the wait. Video will launch in a new window. You will need the Quicktime Player to view this movie. Back to top | Home The Columbia Chronicle is a student produced publication of Columbia College Chicago and does not necessarily represent, in whole or in part, the views of Columbia College administrators, faculty or students. |
February 26, 2001
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