Disco at Questions Night Club

Review Date: 9/20/08

    It’s Saturday night in the strip and nightlife is alive albeit slow compared to the good old Salsa/Rosebud days. Smallman Street is popping with people of all ages and you really have a broad choice of clubs to enjoy. Although the fabulous Boardwalk complex is gone; there’s the Zoo, Privilege, Lydia’s, Eleven, Sports Rock, Krobar, Stratus, and more all within a few blocks.  This area is clearly a good place for bar hopping but for the last three months I’m told that every Saturday, “Questions Night Club” has disco night and we’re here to do the Hustle!

    Firstly, parking options abound. If you don’t mind a short walk, you may want to drive around a little and find a free metered spot on Penn Avenue but why bother? Huge open parking lots are so close for just a flat rate of $5.  The best idea though is most likely valet parking at the door for just $4 - it’s no hassle and the safest choice. Upon our arrival I realized this used to be club “Touch” but the décor now has a somewhat superficial Batman/Robin TV show flare with big green question marks (the Joker?) everywhere and large mirrors suspended along one side wall. The ambience got better as the disco ball and swirling lights kicked in but you certainly knew you’d left the millennium behind. The main dance floor is a good size around 25 x 25 and I was told the management proudly keeps it clean and prepared for dancing. There are at two main level bars, several TV’s (showing football), and a stage where some solo action dancing took place even though it’s carpeted.  Although there is no kitchen or menu here, along the outside wall was a hearty buffet of fried chicken, pasta, slaw, potato salad, fruit salad and greens.  The food is free with admission until gone. There is also an upper level and balcony area which is open to the public on occasion but also stands ready for the VIP crowd and classic bottle service. Smoking is allowed throughout the club.

      The doors open at 7pm but the entertainment is from 9-midnight.  Radio station Q92.9FM does a live broadcast playing classic disco hits. The acoustics are loud and it’s hard to carry on conversations so let’s dance! Initially, the dancing was more freestyle in nature but as the evening progressed, some couples-dancing did emerge. It’s a friendly affair of older enthusiastic party people. It was clear that many of these patrons knew each other.  I’m sure with some effort I’d have been dancing the night away and making new friends but my problem is a lack of enthusiasm for this style, so I stuck to watching. Fortunately, the bar tender was the most attentive fellow I’ve met in a long time.  He was generous with background on the club and made sure my visit was enjoyable. They haven’t tried offering a free dance lesson yet but my big question is, why not?  What is it with this generation of Disco maniacs?  I’d like to see them figure out how to quit jerking each other roughly around the floor and find the consist beat. Either way, they were having a blast and who am I to spoil the fun?  I left early but I highly recommend the event for those of you in this niche. They get a whopping 150-200 or so people through the door and it’s an unpretentious friendly atmosphere.  You really don’t even need to worry much about your outfit.  There is a dress code, which helps keep the riff-raff out, but it was a casually dressed crowd in general. It won’t break the budget either, as there are drink specials and a generous glass of wine is just $5.   As I said before, the location, the club, the music and the people are all in sync with each other, just not with me. So, adieus – you’ll find me next door!  For more information about Questions night club, visit www.questionsnc.com or call 412-434-1400.

Latin Night at Alto Lounge

Review Date: 8/17/08

   Alright so where are the social dancers of Pittsburgh?  What does it take to get you out dancing? Partner dancing has become more popular than ever.  Are you just going to sit on the couch and watch?  For the last year, I’ve been reviewing a different dance event every month and I still see very little evidence that it’s making any impact or difference at all.  Okay, maybe I’m asking a lot but I always reach for the stars.  Whether your dance is Swing, Salsa, Ballroom, Country or Latin; I want to meet you at the club and I’m disappointed when you’re not there!   So what’s the deal?  It’s physically great exercise, it’s the perfect way to meet new people, it will expand your mind and it just might relax away the stress of your responsibilities. Currently, the opportunities around town are plenty but they won’t last long if we don’t participate.  Summer is almost gone.  Now is the time to get out and support the efforts of our club owners who struggle to continue offering these events.  None of the dances are terribly expensive and if you’ve spent time and money learning to dance then your investment deserves the reinforcement of social use! Enough lecture. Let me share another great dance option for you and then you can do nothing if you wish or you can come check it out.

   Sunday evenings in Shadyside, the Alto Lounge is ready to accommodate all your Latin dance moves.  It’s a small club just off Walnut Street at 728 Copeland Street (412-682-1074).  Parking is hit and miss on the street but most stores are closed so it’s not too difficult to find something close by and the meters are free.  There’s also a parking garage a block away and open lots here and there.  The neighborhood still seems fairly safe and I certainly enjoyed walking along Walnut St. in the warm night breeze while I window-shopped. In my opinion, this area of Shadyside is another one of Pittsburgh’s truly unique and special spots that should be more appreciated and visited regularly. 

      Once on Copeland Street, the club is just a short distance down on your left. The sign and entrance are somewhat hidden from view at first.  Look around a little and you’ll see it next door to Starbucks, maybe upscale coffee will get you here!  Handicapped dancers may have an issue with steps at the entrance and a full flight more to get where you’re going. We arrived at 10pm but the DJ begins around 7pm, so don’t let your early day job keep you from dancing on Sunday night. The cover charge is just $5 and drinks are about the same.  The ambiance is casual and contemporary with reflective blue lights that give off a sophisticated feel. The barmaid was the only employee I saw all night and she stayed faithfully behind the bar serving drinks and collecting the cover fees.  The entire room is long and narrow with a few sectional style couches in back and other minimal seating areas.  The bar has two big TV’s which allowed us to keep an eye on the Olympics as well as another show - with closed captions only.  The dance floor is an intimate 20’ x 15’ with mixed surfaces of wood and tile, both very clean. I had no problems with foot movement. I suggest they move things around to accommodate more dance space but it certainly wasn’t necessary with so few dancers. Even though the crowd was small, it was an eclectic group representing a wide range of cultures, ages and dance levels. 

      The music was a mix of Latin rhythms, mostly Bachata and Merengue but Salsa was a close third.  The well-seasoned DJ Marlon Silva has good dance music especially for beginners.  Just about anyone can learn to dance Merengue and Bachata with a little instruction.  My preference would be more current Salsa mix music but then I’m not a beginner.  I’m also a little confused when Marlon speaks as his accent is not always easy to understand but he’s been a consistent supporter and promoter of Latin music and dance in Pittsburgh for at least 10 years now. He can be reached at 412-242-8112.

     So wrapping up my review, I’d like to challenge you to a game called “Where’s Janet”? The first person to introduce themselves to me and mention this article at my next review night will win a free dance class. So come on out and dance, take a chance. Let’s pump up the social scene here in Pittsburgh. For more information go to www.altolounge.com

Swing at Sassy Marie’s

Review Date: Wednesday 7/16/08

           If you like summer hot, then head on out to Sassy Maries for the hottest new swing dance event in town.  Every third Wednesday, Neon Swing X-perience plays live dance tunes that heat up the night and raise the roof!  Located just off East Ohio Street in the North Side, this historic family run “speak-easy” has offered Pittsburgh good food and entertainment for generations.  Formally known as James Street Tavern, jazz & blues have been the norm for years but now they’re really on the right track. Good swing dance music should be welcome anywhere but bringing together an appropriate venue and a rockin’ live band, so close to the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, is surely a compelling reason to get out and dance.

         On the corner of Foreland and James Streets, you can’t miss Sassy Maries but don’t be fooled by the main entrance to the restaurant.   Dancing takes place upstairs in a separate area called the “foot-note”.  I didn’t see any signs but if you head for the inconspicuous side door you’ll be in the right place.  A friendly doorman will then point you up the steps where again you may be confused on where to go but just one level up, give the door a tug and suddenly you’re in another world.  It’s like going back in time….cool and relaxed, tall 20 foot ceilings, low hung fans, high-set windows, small round tables with black tablecloths and beautiful hard wood flooring.  I can just visualize movie scenes with mob guys sitting around, smoking cigars, playing cards and taking in the dance hall girls kicking it up across the stage but back to reality…..

         A preliminary dance lesson was scheduled to start at 7:30 but not much was happening until 8pm. By then, about 15 participants stepped up to the dance floor to learn basic jitterbug.  After boisterous encouragement by dance instructor Chris Roth, 8 couples emerged to practice.  A half hour or so later the main event began as the well dressed band members, totally in character, took the stage.  How sweet it was!  Neon Swing, now celebrating their 10^th anniversary, has evolved into a great dance band.  They treated us to some new and old favorites all well suited for dancing.  Most songs were jitterbug (single swing) style but an occasional east coast, cha cha or rumba snuck into the mix.  No time was wasted as the moderately sized dance floor filled up quickly and about 30 dancers showed off their skills.  There was a wide range of levels from very beginner to advanced, yet all were fairly raw, loose and friendly.  Some seasoned dance couples arrived together but the men were generous in offering to dance with the many available women and the instructor was constantly dancing too.  As the first set ended, a second lesson ensued as Chris taught some additional moves to the growing crowd.  All in all I guess around 60 people passed in and out but I’d say this event is destined to grow.

          Now if you’re like me perhaps North Side is not typically your first choice of destinations.  It’s time to change those preconceived ideas!  The north shore development has brought positive change to this area and continues to encourage a more up-scale atmosphere to the entire neighborhood. It’s also important to note that the Sassy Maries staff is truly dedicated to creating a safe environment.  They provide a convenient parking lot aside the building and it’s equipped with motion sensor lighting and camera surveillance.  Additionally, when you’re ready to leave, there’s always someone available to accompany you to your car.  So I highly recommend dropping by next month.  This is a local hot spot for dining and dancing that won’t suck your wallet dry.  Prices on food and drink are reasonable, parking is free and dancing is only $5.

          In ending, I’d like to thank everyone for an entertaining evening and great hospitality. For more information visit Sassy Maries @ www.sassymaries.com or call 412-246-0355.  Dance instructor Chris Roth may be reached at 412-531-8320 or www.steelcityballroom.com.  One more note, extra special thanks to the band members and in particular, Mike Urick - SrgntSwing@aol.com.   Please check out their newly released CD at www.neonswing.com or call 724-331-7335.

West Coast Swing at Wightman School Community Center 

Review date: Friday June 20^th, 2008

      Personally, country dancing is not my niche nor do I tend to like the down to earth country music that is typically thought about when country dancing is mentioned.  However, my life was enriched and enlightened this past weekend when I found myself doing West Coast Swing dancing to a wide mix of contemporary, blues and Motown music. Each third Friday, the Wightman center in Squirrel Hill comes to life with a country twist.  Starting promptly at 9pm, Stephanie Batista organized about 20 people into couples and began explaining the West Coast Swing 8 count rhythm.  With a humorous approach, she slowly drew in the rather stoic crowd.  Eventually through persistence, smiles and a more relaxed attitude grew over the room.  She continued on to teach a common move known as the basket. After a slow start, things really started loosening up when she turned on the music and we all started switching partners.  With the help of her partner and husband, Aaron, we observed the correct way to do the dance and then tried our best to mirror their smooth coordinated movements through our own interpretations. Everyone was having fun whether a beginner or advanced and it seemed that most participants were somewhere in the middle.  By the end of class, we’d actually tried 5 different patterns but best of all everyone had clearly relaxed and we now had something in common to practice. As the evening progressed, I continued to feel a more than expected friendliness in the atmosphere.  Was this a country thing?

     At the end of the lesson hour, a “Snowball” style activity transitioned us into actual social dancing while still mixing things up.  There really seemed no need for the ice breaker though as I’d already felt the open range of different partners calling to me. As the dance party began I’d say there were around 50 dancers, generally middle aged, all ready to kick up their heels in this wonderfully big venue.  If you’ve never been to Wightman Center before, let me explain.  This 1890’s schoolhouse has become a regular social & recreational facility that holds many dance events.  Although the free street parking can be challenging, once inside you’ll find lots of space to dance.  The gymnasium/ballroom floor itself is about 60’ x 40’ and there’s a stage as well.  Located on the third level, you’re welcome to walk the steps but there is an elevator just around the main entrance corner.  Although a greeter sits inside the front entrance with a vast array of beneficial informational handouts I’ve never seen or heard him mention the elevator. I guess being dancers, we’re supposed to want the exercise!  Anyhow, it’s a little secret every newcomer should be told.

    Once upstairs, you’ll typically see chairs along the walls where you may claim a personal spot but I didn’t see anyone sitting.  The sound system is always good especially with a computer mix of DJ music like they had tonight.  There is no alcohol and no smoking however refreshments are allowed.  In the outer lobby, some packaged snacks were freely available and for $1 you could help yourself to soft drinks, water or juice.  Convenient clean restrooms are just a few steps away. Once the lights go low, you can almost forget the high-school dance feel.  I was told it was a slow night with only 50 of us but usually around 70 people show up.  Perhaps more arrived later as we could not stay late.

    All in all, I give this event a strong 2 thumbs up. For just $8, you get a very complete professional lesson, dancing until 1am and the highly likely chance of making sincere new friends. The most memorable aspect of the evening was the relaxed social atmosphere. In my opinion, that’s exactly what summertime is all about so take off your shoes (street shoes that is) and step into this laid back country style event soon. You might just end up wanting to stay “down on the farm” all year round!  For more information on West Coast Swing  dancing or classes please visit www.PGHWCS.com 

SALSA atTusca

Review Date: 4/15/08

    Spring nights will always give me that unsettled impulsive feeling to do something different. If you get that urge too, may I suggest you make your way over to the south side on a Tuesday night to experience a new Salsa dance at the moderately priced restaurant called Tusca.  The long desired warm air and fresh smell of the season won't be the only stirring force you encounter as the well known DJ, Bobby D. begins playing that addictive Salsa music we all know and love.  Whether you're in the mood to simply listen; to dance; or to enjoy a varied cuisine of Mediterranean, Italian or Spanish flavors; you'll find it here. Tuscas wide menu options from brick oven pizzas and flatbreads to global tapas will excite your taste buds while you enrich your evening with Latin music and dancing too. The tiered level seating and open kitchen might allow you to simply sit and enjoy conversation or people watching but as soon as the dinner crowd fades around 9:30pm, the tables are pushed aside and the dance lesson begins. On this night, about ten people took that proverbial step outside the box and put forth a diligent try. For the next 20 minutes the focus was quick, quick, slow; quick, quick, slow. Bobby D was patient and didn't quit until each person understood and demonstrated the basic moves ensuring some success with it afterwards. Even in a group setting, I must say Bobby D's instruction method is thorough & personalized.  After class was the perfect time to practice what you learned because not too many advanced dancers had arrived yet. The smallish dance area was wide open and available as the great music continued.

    So, did I mention that social Salsa dancing is the most regular dance activity offered in Pittsburgh?  Well, it is.  On almost any given night, you can go local Salsa dancing and now Tuscsa offers another classic opportunity to get out there and dance.  It won’t even sting your budget with a meager $3 cover charge!  You can also street-park for free or opt to take advantage of the $3 evening discounts at nearby parking garages. The club atmosphere is cool and calm yet conveys an upscale vibe. It’s non-smoking, dimly lit and inviting. The full service bar has whatever you need to help you relax and the restrooms were convenient and clean. So why are you not joining in? There were about 100 people in and out during the evening but less than half really danced. I'm thinking it's a lack of knowledge and confidence with partner club style dancing.  Perhaps you know some Mambo, Cha Cha, Rumba and even Merengue but here these rhythms seem interpreted a little differently. Sure, many of the regular crowd has their own slightly uncommon style but so what? The Salsa scene is small to start with so let's not get intimidated, let's just have fun.  These events need your participation to survive and your style is right for you, for now. So gather a few current friends and head out to a Latin club night soon. Eventually, you may be inclined to do as the Romans do, then consider a social styling lesson in Salsa, Cha Cha, Bachata or Merengue. It's well worth it because Latin night club dancing is here to stay.

   So shake off the old and bring on the new by visiting Tusca Tuesdays. There's a strong rumor that soon the glass side wall by the bar will open up to the street for sidewalk dancing. You don't want to miss that. What a great way to stay in shape, meet people, make new friends and enjoy summer in the city.     

     Grazie to Ray Hanis and Bobby Dunlap for the hospitality and information. For more details on Tusca call 412-488-9000 or visit www.tuscatapas.com  To contact Bobby D. go to www.swingpgh.com.

BALLROOM at Blueberry Park

Review Date: 3/15/08

    Ahhhhhh……….a true Ballroom party. It’s hard to find a good place to glide across the floor to a wonderful waltz or a jazzy foxtrot and the next thing you know, you’re doing mambo & swing; but that’s exactly what I did!  Dance events that mix up the styles are absolutely a true dancer’s joy. Why else do we learn all those different styles of dance in the first place? So grab your best dance shoes and head out to “Shall We Dance”

     Once a month, generally on the third Saturday, Blueberry Park Activity Center in the Franklin Park Community is the perfect place to practice all your partner dances. Although it took extra effort to find the location it was well worth it. In actuality it’s only a hop, skip & a jump away from the Camp Horne Exit of 79 in the North Hills but unfortunately the roads are just plain confusing and not well marked.  Also, once you arrive, the park presents its own problems. With no street lighting, you have to drive past the ball field in the dark. Once you do find your way to the back parking lot you’ll finally see the spot. Fortunately, there’s plenty of free parking and no walking around in a bad neighborhood.

    On this night, the building doors were open and a warm inviting vibe reached out to me.  I suddenly forgot the trouble I’d had getting here, and hurried inside where the music delightfully surrounded me. This must be a fairly wealthy neighborhood because the venue is more like a country club than a community park building. The decor is classy with a high cathedral ceiling, large windows and a solid wood floor. The music system sounded great and the rest-rooms were convenient, clean & pretty. Soft lighting around the walls allows everyone to put their best face forward and the smooth wood floor allows your best foot forward too.  If you can’t dance here, you can’t dance anywhere! 

    Tonight about 60 dancers mixed it up and worked on polishing their dancing skills. It seemed that 85% were intermediate level or better but even the beginners were encouraged and felt comfortable.  Most people arrived with a friend or few but I didn’t get the feeling of non-inclusion.  I had many dances with several partners and was welcomed into conversations with strangers who felt like friends before the end of the night.  The dance runs from 7:30 - 11pm.  It’s a BYO everything - snacks, mixers, appetizers and alcohol are all okay. Wine seemed to be the choice of favor but there is access to a kitchen for more involved options.  The floor is approximately 70’ x 35’ which felt big enough to whisk around but small enough to stay intimate. Even with so many people on the dance floor, I never felt cramped.  There are plenty of seats along the sides of the floor but it didn’t feel like a high school dance and everyone was dancing regularly anyway. Green was the prominent color of clothes due to St. Patty’s day but the style was generally conservative yet slightly relaxed. The regular DJ, Jivin' Johnny Siefken, played excellent selections that only another good dancer, like himself, could provide. Two thumbs up!  Sam Perry and Patty Grass are the co-organizers and I understand this event has been held for approximately 3 years now.  Where have I been?  I think this is the best kept secret in the suburbs.  So let’s pass along the word.  The $10 cover is clearly worth the value of such good company & clean fun.  Thanks to all.  My evening was divine. 

    Please note that there will be no dance this year in June or July. For more information please contact Sam Perry at mustangsammy@comcast.net or 412-600-1988.