[Callers] Shadow Swing Disclaimers?

[Linda Leslie via Callers]

Thanks, Jim! This is a great idea, and I agree with you that interactions with one’s shadow might be used as a teachable moment. Your insight is appreciated.
Linda

On Oct 10, 2015, at 7:31 PM, James Saxe via Callers <callers at lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> Back in September, we discussed a topic raised by Maia McCormick:
> 
>> ...
>> 
>> There do exist some really fabulous shadow-swing dances that I would love to be able to call, as long as I could do so without putting anyone in an uncomfortable position. Do folks have ideas for ways to mitigate the potential harms of shadow swing dances?
> 
> [See below for Maia's full message.]
> 
> I've had an idea that I don't think anyone mentioned.  First, a
> disclaimer:  I don't imagine that what I'm about to say will
> sway any of you who are dead-set against shadow swings in any
> circumstances.  However, if you feel compelled to reiterate your
> opposition, I hope you'll have the courtesy to respect Maia's
> original request and do so under a different "Subject" line.
> 
> Anyway, my idea is:  Use the occasion as a "teachable moment".
> 
> When you get to the shadow swing during the walk-through, or
> perhaps during the second walk-through, point out to the
> dancers that they'll be swinging the same person every time,
> and give them a chance to discuss what is or isn't comfortable
> for them.  You might give examples: "Please don't dig you're
> thumb into my neck", "My arm is not a pump handle', "Not too
> fast", "Not so close", etc.  Or you could make general remarks
> about believing you shadow if they say something hurts, or
> about how the person whose less interested in being flirty is
> the one who gets to decide, etc.  And remind people to that
> they can make additional adjustments during the dance.
> Exactly what points you (the caller) want to mention, what
> words you choose, whether to employ humor, etc., will depend
> on what fits your personality, what you see as the likely
> issues in the particular community, how much time you feel
> you can spend before moving along with the dance, etc.
> 
> Note that this idea can be applied to shadow interactions
> other than swings.
> 
> For example, if a dance has an allemande with shadows, you
> might let women and men (or dancers in those roles) take turns
> showing each other their preferred hand holds, strength of
> connection, etc.  You might encourage them, if they have
> different preferences, to give each other's suggestions a
> fair try, but with the very important proviso (better stated
> sooner than later) that nobody should be pressured into
> doing something they think may be painful.
> 
> If the action with shadows is a chain or a right and left
> through, you could give dancers a chance to talk about their
> preferences regarding twirls or about making the courtesy
> turns feel comfortably connected without being *too*
> comfy cosy for anyone's comfort.
> 
> You could also occasionally invite people (and give them
> some time) to have such discussions with their partners.
> 
> Just a thought.
> 
> --Jim
>