Introducing Chestnuts

Now that we have danced a few Chestnuts and analyzed a couple in great detail I offer a few comments:

These dances are different – not that there is anything wrong with that – but the caller needs to recognize the differences and make sure the teaching gets the dancers ready for something they might not be accustomed to.

While the individual figures might appear to be ones we do all the time – the transitions, the way they are approached and the position of the dancers might not be as familiar.. Even the timing of the figures might be something the dancers are not ready for.

The caller needs to identify these and teach them in a way the dancers are comfortable with.

Probably the biggest challenge for the caller is to sell the dancers something that is a little different. People attend the dances because they like the dances we normally do – changing that – even a little requires a very well planned out presentation by the caller.

We have the same issue with squares. We have to be very convincing that the dances will be fun. Kathy Anderson does this as well as anyone – her squares are much more readily accepted – and she can do 4 or 5 in an evening without most dancers not minding at all.

“We are doing this dance because we should” or “ because it is good for you” is not acceptable. Do you know any kids who enjoy their vegetables more because their parents said they were good for them?

So there is the challenge – if you want to introduce more of these older dances – or even different formations – you don’t need to convince me or the other board members – you need to sell the dancers on it. Try a bit and talk to the dancers – see what they like or don’t like – then adjust accordingly.

Thanks,
Mac