Hotlanta 2006

Dancers Sizzled at Hotlanta 2006!

By Susan McFerran

The 10th annual Hotlanta Dance Challenge took place October 18-21, 2006 in Atlanta, GA., at the Renaissance Waverly Hotel. This was the first time the competition was held at this venue and I found it to be a terrific choice. This hotel has fantastic facilities, many first-class amenities, courteous and efficient staff, a great location, with close access to surrounding shops, restaurants -- and a beautiful main ballroom, with practice space outside, large enough to accommodate an event of this size.

With more than 6,500 entries, the Hotlanta Dance Challenge has grown over the last 10 years into one of the premier Pro-Am events in the country and Dancesport world. The credit and congratulations must go to the organizers, Eddie Ares and Nancy Senner who have tirelessly put together a fun-filled 4- day event that offers something for everyone who loves dancing! In addition to the competition levels in all Pro-Am, Amateur and Professional events, workshops were held by Rufus Dustin & Diana McDonald, Paul Holmes & Marie Hansen.

New this year was the Newcomers Rising Star Ball, Oct. 20-21st. Held in the second ballroom of the hotel, this event provided Newcomer students and first time competitors a chance to compete "just for the fun of dancing." At the same time, they also got to share the many benefits of attending a big competition appropriately nicknamed "The Blackpool of Pro-Am." What a great idea! I got a chance to judge in this ballroom and found the energy and enthusiasm to be tremendous.

Keeping the competition in the main ballroom running smoothly and on time was the Chairman of Judges, Jackie Rodgers. This is a huge event, and she did a perfect job of coordinating with all the Judges, Scrutineers, Deck Captains and MC's. Keith Todd of Dance Beat provided the music, and, as always, played the best, most inspiring dance songs for all events.

The highlight of the competition on Saturday night was a professional exhibition put together and choreographed by Wendy Johnson. This spectacular show featured many professional competitors from all the American and International Styles: Smooth & Rhythm, Latin & Standard. Wendy choreographed a true entertainment show with production numbers that were thoroughly enjoyed by all!

My congratulations and admiration go out to Eddie and Nancy for such a successful event!