Hi fellow contra callers :)
I am wondering if any of you have little activities/exercises that you use
to help dancers improve their knowledge/skills of contra dance?
I know there's lots of opinions on whether this is even necessary or should
be offered. However, I have a few situations where I've got dancers who
are keen to improve their skills and I'd like to have various fun ways of
doing so.
I'd love to hear your ideas!
One activity I remember from mannnnny years ago in Ottawa was led by Adina
Gordon. She had us form up in contra lines and then she would say 1-2
(maybe 3?) figures. We weren't to dance the figure... instead, simply go
to the spot where we would end up after the figure(s). I remember this as
being a lot of fun and a great learning experience.
I also remember from that same session something about sending some dancers
out of the room and teaching the dance to others and then doing the dance.
(I don't remember the details.)
Thoughts?
Any advice/ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Emily in Ottawa ON