Hi All,

There are several places where almost no applause occurs after a dance.
In some communities, when I've been subjected to that experience, I've
asked, "were we off tonight?" The reply usually is something like, "no,
the dance was fine (or even great), we just head for our next
partner..." I know sometimes it's just the night. Sometimes, though,
it's the community's habit. I spoke with a renowned musician the other
day, who will no longer play for a certain series. One of the reasons:
lack of applause -- lack of that palpable sense of appreciation.

I think dancers don't often know that applause really makes the band and
caller feel better. If they feel better they play better. And, as a
dancer, applause usually makes me feel better, too. Any ideas on how to
encourage applause? Or, if you're in one of those communities where
applause is minimal, does it bother you?

~erik hoffman
    oakland, ca