19 Nov
2012
19 Nov
'12
7:35 a.m.
My apologies to Kalia for not answering her question sooner.
When I wrote:
I use the optional newcomers orientation, explicit
instructions, careful
Kalia asked:
programming, clear and precise calling, as well
as many implied messages
to
make it clear that integration of first-timers is not only essential but
also fun. Very rarely I will see a couple of first-timers dancing
exclusively with each other. But this occurs only after they have ignored
multiple explicit and implied instructions and have fended off several
attempts by regulars to partner with them. In that case I will intervene
myself, personally, on the dance floor, approach the couple, and explain
the nature of our dance event. That has always had the desired effect.
What do you say to folks who have ignored or brushed
off every other
attempt to effectively encourage them to partner with other dancers? I'm
curious what you say that doesn't get said in the orientation, and if it
works when you say it later, why not just say it during orientation?
I have only had to approach such couples maybe two or three times in the
last 25 years. I make some small talk, ask how they are enjoying the
evening, and then explain that there are no classes in contra dance and
everyone learns by dancing with lots of different people on their first
night. That's pretty much the sum of it. I have mentioned that switching
partners for every dance makes my job much easier.
In some cases these may be folks who want to remain "paired" for the entire
evening. In that case contra dance may be too "community" oriented for
therm. If I ever run into such a couple I would offer a full refund if
they wish to leave...but I would urge them to stay and check it out.
The "secret" is to avoid this situation with multiple explicit and implicit
messages to make it absolutely clear to everyone that first-timers should
be partnered with regular dancers. One of the clearest implicit messages
is to NOT teach anything beyond giving weight and walking during the
orientation. The absence of detailed instruction is the strongest message
to everyone that you expect the regulars to partner with the newcomers.
Starting the first dance without a walk-through and with clear and precise
calling will make this point more strongly than any explicit words. The
regulars always seem to welcome the opportunity to lead the first-timers
with much enthusiasm. The key is to SHOW everyone that you will make sure
they will all be successful.
I hope this helps.
- Greg