Shawn’s No-Nonsense Ninja UPDATE:

1.) Adult Beginner Tap Dance sessions start THIS Sunday…
http://BDXstudio.com/beginner-tap-dance/

2.) Join me in a basic “tap/steppin” class TOMORROW…
http://www.danceimmersion.ca/iabd/iabd.html

3.) Make 2012 INCREDIBLE! Last chance Annual Memberships to BDX…
http://ShawnByfield.com/signup.htm
Read more…

- – - – GO Ninja GO Ninja GO – - – -

* 1.) Adult Beginner Tap Dance sessions start THIS Sunday at BDX! 3pm – 4pm. Now here’s my insights:

I’m gonna be blunt today. Like it or not, this year is gonna zoom by, just like yours did last year. Did you do half the stuff you said you wanted to do last year? Or did you wait until it was “the right time” and ended up “waiting” your year away?

If you’ve been “humming and hawing” or “sitting on the fence” trying to decide what to do with your life… NOTHING will happen if you just sit on your duff. If you really want to learn something, then stop talking, get involved today and learn from the best.

Wanna learn to tap?
Guess what we do at my school?
WE TEACH YOU HOW TO TAP.

Surprise!

You’ve seen pics. You’ve watched videos. Heck, even Breakfast Television was live at our studio Wednesday morning because even THEY know the absolute best place to learn to dance is our place, right here in Toronto. What else do you need?

If Zeus launched a flaming trident from the heavens attached with a hand-written note in parchment saying “Michelle, This is your sign. Now go and dance already…” would THAT convince you?

You’re smart enough that won’t happen. Zeus doesn’t use tridents. Poseidon does. So for heaven’s sake, get your excuses out of the way and get to that beginner tap session. Hurry!

Only TWO DAYS LEFT:

http://BDXstudio.com/beginner-tap-dance/

Byfield Dance Experience dance classes on Breakfast Television

- – - – GO Ninja GO Ninja GO – - – -

* 2.) Join me in a basic “tap/steppin” class TOMORROW morning (Saturday) 10:30am. This week is the International Association of Blacks in Dance Festival and Conference. Funny story:

I performed last night. Did a tap solo to “Funkin’ For Jamaica” a favourite chune of mine I recently used at the #BDX2 showcase. While in my excitement on stage, I broke my right heel tap. Think it flew at somebody in the front row. If that was you, I hope it didn’t ninja-star you in the retina… Sit in the 3rd row next time. (And thanks for watching BTW)

Anyway, I’m teaching a beginner tap/steppin’ class open to everyone. Yes, everyone. No, you don’t need experience or tap shoes. What’s steppin’? Show up tomorrow and you’ll see for yourself! You MUST register in advance:

http://www.danceimmersion.ca/iabd/iabd.html

- – - – GO Ninja GO Ninja GO – - – -

* 3.) Make 2012 INCREDIBLE! Last chance Annual Memberships to BDX because our schedule format changes February 1st. Now there’s even MORE offered at the studio and it’s exciting stuff. Just so you know:

If you want to have dramatically better health AND better dance moves this year, re-read 1.) above and then, DO SOMETHING that will make your dreams come true.

Speaking of dreams…

I can’t speak for everyone, but I DO know many of our students have noticed better flexibility, improved memory, can touch their toes without grunting, can do handstands again, lost weight in their thighs, stomach and heaven forbid- their ass, just from hanging with us a couple times a week.

You don’t have to be at BDX every day. Just twice a week. You’re at work five days a week and it makes you irritable. Two days with us and your jeans fit again… Wouldn’t it make sense to make a choice that benefits your health AND your sanity?

Here’s where to get your mojo back:

http://ShawnByfield.com/signup.htm

- – - – GO Ninja GO Ninja GO – - – -

This Ninja’s out, like a street light in a horror movie.

Do something for YOU today. Sending you Hiii-YA! energy to knock 2012′s lights out,

- @ShawnByfield

Adult tap dance shoes

Leading Dance Studio Wants Every Adult To Enjoy Their Warmest Winter Ever, With Toronto’s Hottest Adult Tap Dance Classes

The hottest beginner tap dance classes are coming Sunday, January 29^th. Join BDX Studio for an amazing season of tap dance geared specifically to newbies

Toronto, ON: January 24, 2012 – Byfield Dance Experience announces beginner tap dance classes throughout the winter and spring in downtown Toronto. Byfield Dance Experience, Canada’s leading dance studio for adults, announces its new tap dance session for 2012, catering to beginners, newbies and anyone with two left feet.

“There’s never been a better time to learn how to dance, and take a tap dance class, especially right here in Toronto” says Shawn Byfield, director of Byfield Dance Experience. “There’s a huge interest in tap dance and such a vibrant, growing community here. Plus, there are so many clubs and lots of live music, it’s crazy to live here and not learn to dance, or at least try it out. Our classes are energetic, fun, and completely step-by-step.”

Byfield Dance Experience tap dance classes take place on multiple days, but the beginner tap dance session happens Sundays in Toronto. No experience is necessary. Classes are filled with regular people who want to build their passion for tap dance, have an outlet to release energy and get great exercise.

For people who have made resolutions to get healthier, lose weight or feel more energized but haven’t started on those goals, now is the time. Many will be surprised at how much of a workout tap dance is, and how dancing can enrich their lives. Dancers will learn a skill that they will enjoy for years to come.

Don’t delay, classes start soon. Registration and information is available at www.BDXstudio.com. Get started today, and jump-start your 2012 goals!

About Byfield Dance Experience

Located downtown Toronto, Byfield Dance Experience (BDX) is an inspiring Toronto dance studio space created by Dora Award winner and Gemini Award nominee Shawn Byfield. A National authority in dance choreography, expert instructor and veteran of the entertainment biz, Byfield created BDX to enhance culture in Toronto. BDX is Toronto’s exclusive recreational dance studio for lovers and supporters of dance who may or may not have any dance training whatsoever. Inspiring adult tap dance classes are offered from a professional, fun and energizing staff in a positive, social atmosphere.

# # #

Heads up: We’ll finally have BEGINNER tap dance sessions at BDX! It’s taken a bit of time, but I’m pretty stoked about it. And they start SOON. If you’re interested, here’s the details:

Absolute Beginner Tap Dance
8 Week Sessions – SUNDAYS 3pm:
SESSION ONE: January 29th – March 25th

You’ll notice it says Session One. That’s because if you really want to learn, it takes at LEAST 3 sessions of basic beginner training before you start shuffling on your own. At least. We haven’t set the 2nd or 3rd start dates yet because we need to see if you’re *seriously interested* in continuing.

Adult beginner tap dance in Toronto with Rebecca

You’re in for a special treat: Toronto’s top tap dance instructor for beginners Rebecca Lewis-Mastoras will be teaching these sessions! Rebecca is 3rd generation tap dancer. It literally runs in her blood.

Another heads up: her beautiful baby Samantha might be at the classes with you. She’s 2 years old. And she’s ALREADY jumping for tap joy. Maybe Samantha will teach a class or two? I’ll be around to see you too, you can’t get rid of me.

ANOTHER special treat: Each session will only be $179 for 8 weeks of awesome. I’ll have a link online very soon so you can easily save your spot.

Adult beginner tap dance in Toronto at Byfield Dance Experience

TAP SHOES? Yes, you WILL need to borrow or purchase tap shoes if you don’t have any. I recommend:

Malabar Dance & Theatre Supplies
14 McCaul Street, Toronto

Get a pair of FLAT SOLED LEATHER SHOES. No 3 inch heels. No shiny patent leather. No jazz shoes with taps on the bottom. They should be sturdy. If they look cute, like a 5 year old would wear them, don’t buy them. Look at the shoes below and get those. SECRET: Say you’re training at Byfield Dance Experience and they should also give you a discount.

Adult beginner tap dance shoes in Toronto

There’s your info. If you have questions please CALL THE STUDIO at 416-917-1169. No question is dumb, so give us a ring and leave your number and email address, so Rebecca can get you more details in the next few days!

- @ShawnByfield

Ok! Welcome to the start of your new life.

I have tons of good stuff to share that’ll make 2012 your best year ever. Byfield Dance Experience is still growing and is transitioning into an even better, well ah, experience. THIS IS JUST PART ONE of all the info. Seriously, this place is gonna rock harder than AC/DC.

Let’s get started. BTW, I’ll give you breaks every now and then…

THE ONLY RULE: Lick It Clean

Back in the day, a friend of mine used to call her strict Stepmom her “Step Monster.” True story. So as your old-school, wooden-spoon-yielding strict Nona, I’m telling you now: You can’t leave until you clean your plate. Lick it clean.

If you’re anything like me, too much info at once means you start skimming through… then skipping parts entirely. Because it’s info overload. So this is in chunks because I need you to read EVERY word, preferably twice.

~~~ OK! TIME OUT ~~~

Heads up: There’s ALWAYS two people with legit A.D.D. that ask unnecessary questions. I don’t want you to be a third sidekick/wheel/annoyance; two’s enough. Some of my subscribers are ruthless, and will mercilessly roast you like a squealing pig on a stick. Think Lord of the Flies…

So before you type any questions in the comment box, legit read everything. ~~~ END TIME OUT ~~~

CTRL + ALT + DELETE = NEW Thinking

Here’s part of an email I sent to my BDX team before 2012:

“…Delete what you think of the studio. Because BDX is now a super-fun FITNESS AND ACTIVE LIFESTYLE STUDIO… People want and remember things, places and services that offer something different.

We’re different. And we care about people. To move forward with the new mentality, you’ll notice three things on the schedule:

1. Class times are shorter
2. This new thing called “Dance Workout”
3. This new thing called “Tap Technique”
4. More classes for tap dancers
5. No membership classes on Sundays

BDX is now pretty much like a gym, with a mix of classes on the weekly schedule. Just like Goodlife or Extreme Fitness. The DANCE WORKOUT classes are basically 45 minutes of sweat monster classes. The cardio, strength and stretch we do in warmup is now it’s own class because many people want to work out and come specifically for THAT aspect. The EXERCISE.“

~~~ OK! TIME OUT ~~~

Did you see the Easter egg I purposely threw in that email? If you read EVERY word, you’d find “you’ll notice three things on the schedule.” And how many points are there after? Count em up…

Yeah, five. Not one single person on my team caught that one. Hmmm. Guess I have more changes to make than I thought.  ~~~ END TIME OUT ~~~

Look At This! It Gets Bigger When You Click It (That’s What She Said)

BDX NEW Schedule February

Now Read Below. Because It Helps You Better Understand The New Schedule

Basic format for DANCE WORKOUT:

• 25 minutes of mostly-constant dance movement (teachers fun mix of aerobic, dance, plyometric and anaerobic exercise)
• 5 minutes of aerobic cool down
• 15 minutes of strength & stretch
• Keep in mind, it’s called Dance Workout (You won’t leave pretty, bring a towel & water)

Basic format for TAP TECHNIQUE:

• 10 minutes of foot isolation based exercises (toe taps, heel digs, shuffles, riffs, cramp roll variations, etc)
• 10 minutes of cardio based steps (like running flaps, pickups, wings, shuffle pickup changes, etc)
• 25 minutes of specific, fine-tuning, technique exercises and routines to improve foot agility, weight transfer, stamina, execution and musicality
• Keep in mind it’s a TECHNIQUE class

The 60 minute hip hop/ tap CLASSES are for mostly straight choreography. You’ll love and dramatically benefit from this class, because it provides more time to improve your MEMORY, co-ordination and further develop your STYLE.

BTW: If you have one, two or even three left feet, the beginner hip hop class is PERFECT for you.

So. There’s your schedule. You’ll notice for the most part, it isn’t drastically different from the current times. What days work best for you? Chances are you can fit two classes in one day, if you choose to be super cool.

And Oh! There Goes The Buzzer

And it looks like our time is up. Thanks for listening to WBDX Radio. Tune in to PART TWO in a few days. You rock for making time to absorb this.

Please know that we’re still growing so things WILL CHANGE. Get used to embracing change, because change isn’t just for your wallet anymore. These adjustments are designed to make your experience even MORE enjoyable. And…

…As you continue taking classes at BDX, you’ll feel stronger, sexier & more confident. Not a bad deal, eh?

I’ll address other new stuff in the next part, like what happens on Fridays, on Sundays, how your monthly membership investment will change slightly, and Jay-Z’s newborn baby*.

Be sure to write or tweet any comments you may have below, so I can get you the answers A to the SAP!

- @ShawnByfield

*PS: Just kidding. I promise to not talk about Beyonce’s baby. Who cares? Their baby won’t change your future one bit. But classes at BDX can, and will improve your life.

Blessings to you, your family and friends! Read here for some timeless New Year inspiration. Sending you as much positive energy as you can handle.

- @ShawnByfield

2012 is here… and I need some help with the upcoming Year Of The Dragon. (I’m a Dragon in Chinese horoscope. Ni hao ma to all my Asian peeps, we’re taking over!)

Know anyone AWESOME looking to be helpful? If so, send them this personal letter from me. I’ll be interviewing asap. Open to any keener who loves people, loves the arts, sales, marketing and, did I mention loves people?

Download the Awesome, Hilarious & Thought-Provoking Personal Assistant Letter from Shawn Here

I do believe a little motivation daily can go a long way. Here’s a short quote from Anthony Robbins. Cheers to your tomorrow.

- @ShawnByfield

Check out the man! Santa Claus dancing at Byfield Dance Experience! http://www.BDXstudio.com BDX Studio is the official worldwide dance trainer and fitness coach of Hip Hop Santa Claus.

Pure awesomeness.

- @ShawnByfield

Hip Hop Santa Claus trains at Byfield Dance Experience

So guess who had a private lesson with me a few days ago?

Don’t let the belly fool you, because Santa’s got talent. The North Pole’s best-kept secret isn’t who’s on the nice list, but who’s on the dance floor.

Official Business Yo’

If you didn’t already know, I’m Santa Claus’ official dance coach- right here in Toronto. Every year, I help Santa get ready for his global sleigh ride, to drop off toys and dance passes (aka the best gifts ever) to eager peeps worldwide.

Before we started, I asked him what he thought of his belly and if that would stop him from bustin’ out. His reply:

“While most people hit the gym, I hit the dance floor. Most people see me as a jolly fat man. But underneath this suit I’m a lean, mean, dancing machine.”

True story. So how does he do it every year? Here’s the secret…

Santa uses hip hop classes to increase his energy levels, which builds his stamina for his global trip on Christmas Eve. To get him fired up, he consults a dance expert (yours truly) to help him prep for the big day. Muscle-head gym trainers make him feel a bit intimidated (shhhh… I’ve said too much) so he feels more comfortable at my dance studio and “Dance Mix ’85.”

Hey, he’s old skool. Like REALLY old skool. Zapp & Roger baby!

Bearded Fat Man Finds Way To NOT Exercise And Still Stuff Cookies In His Face

Claus KNOWS dancing is terrific exercise and an excellent alternative to the gym. And the best part?

You don’t FEEL like you’re exercising. You’re too busy grooving and having fun you totally forget you’re working out. Pretty cool. Old White Beard made some great progress in our hip hop class the other day and had a few sweaty words before he left:

“I love bringing joy to people’s lives. But more importantly, dancing brings joy to MY life. Groovin’ on the dance floor keeps me movin’ on Chrstmas Eve. Ho ho ho!”

Do you relate? Is the dance floor your favourite place to celebrate the holiday?

- @ShawnByfield