Re: [Callers] spiking the 'booking ahead'

On May 18, 2006, at 10:25 AM, Seth Tepfer wrote: What did I do? Can't remember..... We have the same problem in Boston and we're talking about it (no info yet). Personally, I make a point of not booking ahead when we have extra men, as is often the case here. I actually say,"I'm not booking any dances ahead because there are lots of men sitting out." FYI: a lot of dancers hate being manipulated by the post-mixer "and keep this partner for the next dance...." Dancing with friends is a very important motivator for people to come to dances, so they want choice in the matter of who there next partner is. Often after I've called a square I'll say, "STOP! If you got to dance this square, please find someone sitting out for the next dance." That tends to work pretty well because they tend to hold the square formation until I tell them what's happening next, so they are sitting ducks for that kind of instruction. It also means the applause for the band gets cut off, but I just make sure the band gets their due later. If I call at private dance parties for experienced dancers, I request that dancers not book ahead, and I ask the hosts to post signs to that effect. People are good about it, which is nice. -- Lisa