Re: [Callers] Borrowing call terminology from modern square dancing

Martha wrote: Thanks for making that point. I think the familiarity of the dancing makes the regulars feel more empowered because they "know the drill" and feel more like insiders. With a greater sense of ownership they feel more motivated and confident in partnering with first-timers. So the familiar dances will encourage integration of the newcomers...and that makes the caller look more competent. I also want to suggest, gently, that the idea that everyone wants/needs to be challenged with something new is loaded with a lot of hidden assumptions. Contra dancing is one of the most ritualized activities I know of in our culture. Rituals are very popular in all cultures and many of them have been repeated, unchanged, for thousands of years. Millions of devotees are very pleased with the "same old thing" over and over, endlessly. There is a sense of continuity and solid grounding in traditional ritual behavior that is very popular. I wouldn't bet that "most" people want something challenging and new at every dance. I am not, in the least, a preservationist in any sense. I am encouraged and delighted that contras have evolved even since I have been dancing. But I am questioning the assumption of an innate need for novelty as a basic human drive. Martha then wrote: I'm not sure what you mean by this. Are you talking about the regular, public contra dances?...or special events? And what kind of one night stand are you referring to? Like a wedding, or corporate party? I am curious about this thought. Please expand on this. - Greg McKenzie