Re: [Callers] Neighbor swing only dances

Just this past Saturday I started off my program with a neighbors-only-swing dance: The Belles of Auburn by Roger Knox duple improper published in Balance and Swing by Ted Sannella Ted suggests Washington Quickstep, and I almost always use jigs for the dance. Starting the evening with jigs is a way for the band to warm up, and the sashay figure is lively without being difficult. A1 Sashay down with the next below (with ones in the center, back to back with partner) Sashay back to place A2 Balance and swing neighbor B1 Down the center four in line, turn as a couple Four in line, come back to place B2 The same two ladies chain, over and back Ted adds that the dance was written in 1958, when Roger Knox was calling and was trying to remember Beaux of Oak Hill, an older and similar dance. I applaud Chris's rationale for wanting to have more of these dances in his repertoire: "I keep running into situations where I have a high percentage of beginners who want to dance with each other and it would help to have them practice the swing with experienced people early in the evening instead of trying to do it with their partner." Be aware, though, that not everyone will understand your reasons or, upon hearing them, agree with them. Two regular dancers at my event came up after I called Belles of Auburn to complain: "I thought there was something in the caller's handbook that specified that all dances have a partner swing in them." I explained that with the large number of beginners present etc. etc., but they weren't buying it. (Sidelight: I noted that this couple danced exclusively with each other all night, didn't ask the newcomers to dance, and generally lined up at the head of the center set as often as possible.) As a caller, you're going to hear more from the regular dancers than from the first timers, and it's really important to stick to your guns. (Hmm... is there a less belligerent way to say that?) Don't ignore what they have to tell you, but don't be fooled into thinking that their perspective is the only one. Yes, they will be the most vocal but if you cater just to their wishes, sooner or later you're going to run into trouble. Someone has to be looking out for those first time dancers and the perennial beginners, and that someone is the caller. (Plus, of course, the most advanced dancers in the hall, who will be your allies out there on the dance floor, quietly making a point of dancing with the newcomers and offering them smiles and reassurance plus gentle instruction.) David Millstone