I know I've seen some beginners attend a dance camp and truly enjoy
it. The ones who have a good time tend to be very confident people.
On the other hand I've also seen beginners feel very uncomfortable at
dance camps. Some, for example feel that they're holding the group
back because they aren't as skilled. Usually they end up watching
the dancing.
What I look at is the skills required to dance at a community dance
verses the skills required to dance at a dance camp. The skills
required for dancing at a dance camp may be over their heads. There
isn't enough time to practice and digest all of the various moves
thrown their way.
I often hear people say, "come on it's easy". But for some it isn't
so easy. People's skills vary tremendously. We contra dancers find
contras to be easy and accessible. Maybe there are other activities
that we would find challenging.
So here's an invitation for all you hot shots. Let's go white water
kayaking. You have your choice of an easy class 2 river with an
average instructor OR you can take on that roaring class 5 river with
a truly amazing instructor. You may roll over and hit your head but
you will be inspired!
The last thing I think we should consider is the experience of those
who have been dancing for some time. I'm sure they go to dance camps
for various reasons. Some may go because of the higher level dancing
and that means having few or no beginners.
Tom