Re: [Callers] Telling couples to switch at the end of a contra set

Mark, This is a great question that is more profound than it looks. I think you are spot on in your assessment that this reminder is not necessary. In fact I would submit that reminding dancers of this is counter-productive for two reasons: First: The reminder to cross over at the ends of the set can cause consternation among newcomers who must now remember another "rule" that might trip them up. This communicates, by implication, that the dancing will be more difficult than it actually is. Second: The reminder is, in fact, absolutely unnecessary unless the caller assumes that at least some of the newcomers will be paired up with other newcomers. This is an important point. When the caller gives this instruction it is implied that the caller expects some newcomers to dance with each other. Thus the caller is giving implied permission for the regulars to leave the newcomers to fend for themselves. Consider the alternative: If the caller never gives this instruction it is implied that she expects ALL newcomers to be paired up with more experienced dancers. Thus by leaving this instruction out the caller is inviting the regulars to take a proactive and essential role in partnering with newcomers. The same can be said for many other instructions, such as what to do if a couple leaves the set, or how to line up into contra lines. Why not assume the support of all of the regulars and actually give them an important role to play in partnering with newcomers? There is no need to state this explicitly. The regulars will note the lack of this information, see that they have a role to play, and will welcome the chance to guide newcomers. It is much more fun to dance with newcomers if you can "show them the routine." Leaving out this information actually makes it more fun to dance with newcomers. What you do NOT say communicates important information, and is often a better way to make the point. If you want newcomers to be welcomed and embraced by the regulars then leave this kind of task to them and thus give the regulars a vital role to play. This is much more fun for the regulars than just standing still while listening to the caller explain something that they could show the newcomer in a fraction of the time. I have been calling this way for years. I have never had a problem with newcomers missing the information, and I am convinced that it subtly encourages the integration of newcomers. Just a thought, Greg ************* At 04:37 PM 12/1/2010, you wrote: