DanceSpots

Dance brings people together at Dance Times Square

by Robert Abrams
March 29, 2002

For a schedule of classes and events, go to www.dancetimessquare.com or call (212) 994-9500. Their address is 156 W 44st, New York, NY 10036.

Have you ever noticed that when a roomful of people are dancing they often find themselves drawn closer and closer together into the middle of the room? Dance can bring people together in the most unexpected ways. I have such a story.

Two nights ago was Passover, a time when people get together to remember. Afterwords I wandered over to Dance Times Square, mostly because I was only two blocks away. Plus, I was hoping to accidentally run into someone I have met there recently. (I did just happen to be in the neighborhood, I swear. When the bill comes for dinner I will be able to prove it.) Dance Times Square is a relatively new studio in New York City. The space is stunning, with architectural detail and gold leaf on the ceiling. This is one ballroom studio that actually looks like a ballroom. The staff is friendly. They have an incipient and growing community.

As it happened the person I was looking for was not there that night. As it turned out though, my first tango teacher was there. At first, I thought I must be mistaken. It must be someone who looks similar. After a few minutes of awkwardly staring at each other and awkwardly looking away, we finally figured out that each of us was who the other thought they were. I haven't seen her in perhaps four years. I knew her from the Palomar Ballroom in Santa Cruz, California, another ballroom with real architecture.

Later on that night I thought I saw someone else I used to know. She looked different, but her smile was the same. I haven't seen her since high school, which must make it 16 years. At the time neither of us knew Argentine tango existed. I know I didn't.

So the next time you drift to the center of the ballroom, look around. You never know who the dance may bring you.

Once a month Dance Times Square holds a free open house. In addition to general dancing there is often a performance by one or more professionals and students. Here are some pictures from the March open house.