Re: [Callers] North Country Ladies' Chain

I think the whole point of a North Country Ladies' Chain is that the man DOESN'T turn around (them Northerners being a lazy bunch apparently!). Yes, I was taught originally that the man just stands still. After the lady has turned under his hand he lowers his left hand and changes the lady's left hand from his left hand to his right hand behind his back, drawing the lady across to his right. However, with the flowing choreography of a modern contra dance I would always be more sympathetic - I make it very clear that I am doing something different by bringing my left hand down strongly as soon as the lady has gone under it and I step forwards slightly, then as I change hands behind my back I step to the left as I draw the lady to my right. It should be a smooth and pleasing experience for both parties. Happy dancing, John John Sweeney, Dancer, England john(a)modernjive.com 01233 625 362 & 07802 940 574 http://www.modernjive.com for Modern Jive Events, Instructional DVDs and Interactive Maps http://www.contrafusion.co.uk for Contra Dancing in Kent