FEATURED ST. LOUIS STEPPER OF THE MONTH DECEMBER 2009 - JANUARY 2010
This page is dedicated to featuring a St. Louis Stepper each month, and their contribution to the Art of Steppin".
Nathaniel (Nate) Norman
Chicago Stepper in St. Louis
Nate was chosen to be a
featured stepper of the month via nomination. Several St. Louis
Steppers felt he deserved to be recognized do to his dedication and hard work instructing new comers to the
art of Steppin' in St. Louis.
Chicago Old & New Skool Stepper since 2003.
Nate was taught by (2) of the best Chicago Steppers (heavy hitters)
Donnie "Dance Master" and Tony Dowell. He also had continued
instruction in the art of steppin' by Master Stepper and Chicago
Instructor "Ms. Gladys" becoming a master in the art of Old & New Skool Steppin.
Did he learn well from his mentors? Absolutely! This editor first encountered Nate at Club
Situation in St. Louis, on a Tuesday night and knew right off the bat he has got to be
from Chicago! His style graceful, footwork on the mark, hand signals
and turns smooth, patience with his partner guiding her across the
floor. I was truly impressed, had to dance with this new comer to St.
Louis. Mind you Nate didn't know me from Adam, he had no idea I was
an Old Skool Stepper from Chicago. When we started, Nate knew right
away what to do. In about 30 seconds into steppin' he checked out my style and immediately conformed.
He knew I was Old Skool and adjusted his footwork accordingly to
enhance our look as a couple on the floor. That's what real steppers do! He did not lead me into a lot of spins and turns (New Skool) instead he guided me more into footwork with few spins and turns (Old Skool) it was a pleasure to step
with him.
This editor just had to know more about this young man who stepped like an Old Skool Heavy Hitter!
The Interview:
Like many Chicago Steppers now living in St. Louis, Nate relocated to St. Louis from Chicago two years ago with his job. He was desperate to find were St. Louis was steppin'. He loved the dance and sorely missed sweet home, Chicago. Nice surprise, he found us, the St. Louis Steppers Community.
Starting out Nate was just steppin' with anyone who knew the basics, however, as he got more and more into St. Louis Steppin' he realized they needed a little help. He began instructing on the floor, the ladies really appreciated him giving his time to them at no charge, he was doing it for the love of the dance. Just a really nice guy, laid back and too cool with the perfect steppin' instructor's demeanor! He became high in demand with the ladies.
As time moved on Nate has continually instructed old and new steppers who need his help in enhancing their style in the art of Old and New Skool Steppin', never asking for payment for his services. He well deserves an honorable mention on this site.
On behalf of all the stepper's you have helped and those who just love to watch you work the floor i.e. this author, We Thank You Nathaniel (Nate) Norman for your hard work and dedication to a dance we all love!