I'm writing in hopes of news from Liz and Bill, whose nearest town
Lyttleton, NZ was hit by a sizable earthquake last night. The Cathedral
was reported in a crumbled state, which suggests more extensive damage.
Pllease let us know if you are OK. Anyone else who hears, please inform?
Andrea (and Bob)
On 2/11/2011 3:14 PM, Liz and Bill wrote:
Hi Martha,
The situation here in NZ is a bit different, as we have no contra
dance tradition and it's pretty new here. I learn a lot from shared
weight and it's helping me establish the tradition that I hope forms
here.
I'm trying to wean the dancers off being dependent on the calls.
Many of the dancers here lack the confidence that they can remember
a dance.
As soon as the dancers seems to be getting into the groove, I cut back.
I find using an incomplete call (e.g. "gents" as mentioned by Joe),
still
gives an indication of what comes next, but helps them take
responsibility for learning the dance. If the a problem develops with,
I may
come back in with full calls.
The beauty of contra dance is dancing without the calls, and by letting
that happen that aspect of the dance is developing.
Not trusting the dancers is too much. Letting is fall apart is
too little.
Cheers, Bill
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