Whose Dance Is It Anyway? The Lead, the Follow, and the Magic of Partnership

The Misunderstood "Push": A Lesson in Dance Language

The room buzzed with energy, a mix of nervous laughter and determined footwork. I have noticed many beginner couples with the same frustration when I work with them one-on-one. I hear "He keeps pushing me," or "And when I push her, she just stands there!"

A familiar wave of realization washed over me. This wasn't just a physical misunderstanding; it was a linguistic one. The word "push," so common in everyday language, has no place in the vocabulary of partnered dance. It conjures images of force, of resistance, of a battle rather than a graceful exchange.

"Let's talk about that word 'push'," I interjected. "In dance, we don't push. We suggest. We indicate. We lead." I demonstrated, placing my hand gently on my partner's back, a feather-light touch guiding her into the turn. "It's a conversation, not a command. You're not forcing your partner; you're inviting them to move with you."

The lead will usually go quiet, a sense of understanding settling in. "Think of it like this," I continued. "Imagine you're guiding someone through a crowded room. You wouldn't shove them; you'd gently place your hand on their arm and direct them around obstacles. In dance, it's the same principle, just with more artistry."

That little linguistic shift, from "push" to "suggest," transformed the atmosphere. Suddenly, the tension eased, and the students began to explore the subtle nuances of leading and following. They discovered that true connection wasn't about force, but about a delicate balance of intention and responsiveness. And it was that moment that reminded me, and I hope will remind you, that partnered dancing is a conversation, not a conquest. And as we explore in the blog post above, whose dance is it anyways? It's ours.

The Lead, the Follow, and the Magic of Partnership

Partnered dancing: it's a beautiful, intricate conversation played out with bodies, not words. But within this dialogue, the question often arises: whose dance is it, really? Is it the lead, dictating the moves? Or the follow, adding their own flair? Let's unpack this fascinating dynamic.

The Traditional View: The Lead's Domain

Traditionally, the lead holds the reins. They initiate the steps, guide the direction, and set the overall tone. Think of it as the choreographer in real-time, using subtle cues and physical connection to communicate their intentions. This structure provides a framework, a roadmap for the dance to unfold.

For many beginners, this concept is crucial. It provides a clear structure and a sense of security. The lead learns to communicate with confidence, while the follow learns to interpret those signals with precision.

Beyond Control: The Follow's Essential Contribution

However, to see the follow as merely a passive recipient is a grave misunderstanding. A skilled follow is an active participant, a vital component of the dance's magic. They interpret the lead's signals, adding their own style, musicality, and expression.

Imagine a jazz improvisation: the lead provides the melody, but the follow adds the harmonies and embellishments, creating a richer, more nuanced experience. They can anticipate, respond, and even subtly influence the direction of the dance.

A truly great follow elevates the lead, making them look and feel better. They bring life and vibrancy to the dance, transforming it from a set of steps into a living, breathing expression of connection.

The Dance as a Dialogue: A Shared Creation

Ultimately, the best partnered dances are a dialogue, a give-and-take, a true partnership. It's not about control, but about collaboration. The lead initiates, the follow responds, and together, they create something greater than the sum of their parts.

Think of it as a conversation between two musicians. One proposes a musical phrase, and the other responds with a counter-melody, creating a beautiful harmony. This dynamic exchange is the heart of partnered dancing.

Modern Interpretations: Blurring the Lines

In contemporary dance styles, the traditional roles of lead and follow are often blurred. There's a growing emphasis on fluidity, equality, and shared creativity. Some dances even feature equal roles, where there's no defined lead or follow.

This shift reflects a broader cultural trend towards greater equality and collaboration. It acknowledges that both partners bring unique skills and perspectives to the dance floor.

The Takeaway: It's Our Dance

So, whose dance is it anyway? The answer is: it's ours. It's a shared creation, a testament to the power of connection and collaboration. Whether you're a lead or a follow, remember that you're both essential to the magic of partnered dancing.

Embrace the dialogue, celebrate the partnership, and enjoy the beautiful conversation that unfolds on the dance floor. Because ultimately, the best dances are the ones we create together.

An update on a New Dance Floor for Colonial Heights Swing Dance Club

Exciting News! We're thrilled to announce our plans to purchase a Snaplock portable dance floor for the Colonial Heights community. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we're one step closer to making this dream a reality.

Our Vision

Our goal is to create a valuable asset for the local dance community by establishing the Colonial Heights Swing Dance Club as a 501c(7) nonprofit organization. This will enable us to:

• Own the dance floor: The floor will become a club asset, ensuring its long-term availability.
• Manage club finances: We'll establish a board and a checking account to handle business transactions efficiently.
• Offer rentals: The dance floor will be available for rent to the public for private events, dances, parties, and more.

How Rental Income Will Be Used:

1. Reimbursing Donors: If requested by our donors, our top priority is to repay the generous individuals who have contributed to this project.
2. Funding Club Activities: Once initial funds are reimbursed, we'll allocate remaining income to support club events, trips, and the search for a dedicated dance facility.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Your continued support is essential to the success of this project. Together, we can create a vibrant dance community and provide a top-notch facility for everyone to enjoy.

Make Your Donation Today

Let's dance together! 

Dancing on Concrete - A Swing Dance Club's Plea

We are the leaders of Colonial Heights Swing Dance Club, and we are passionate about bringing the joy of swing dancing to our community. However, we are currently facing a challenge that is hindering our ability to provide a safe and enjoyable dancing experience for our members.

Our current dance floor is made of concrete or tile-covered concrete, which is a very hard and unforgiving surface, this can be further complicated when the floor is not well maintained and becomes sticky. This surface can cause injuries, such as ankle sprains, knee problems, and hip pain, especially when dancing for extended periods of time. We are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable dancing experience for all of our members. To achieve this, we are raising funds to purchase a Snaplock portable dance floor. This dance floor is made of polypropylene base with various commercial grade laminate top surfaces that look like wood that is designed to absorb shock and reduce stress on dancers' joints. It is also easy to set up and take down, so it can be used for a variety of events.

The cost of a 21’ x 21’ Snaplock portable dance floor is about $4,300. We have a generous donor that has offered to match donations up to $5,000 which would result in our ability to get a 30' x 30' floor! Let's make it happen! We are asking for your help to raise this money so that we can provide a better dancing experience for our members. It also allows us to set up on a myriad of other indoor or outdoor flat surfaces of dirt, sand, grass, asphalt, etc.

How You Can Help

There are many ways that you can help us to raise funds for our Snaplock portable dance floor. Here are a few ideas:

• Donate to our spotfund campaign: We have set up a spotfund campaign to collect donations for the dance floor. Please visit our page and donate whatever you can.
• Attend our events: We hold a variety of events throughout the year, such as classes, workshops, and social dances. By attending these events, you will be supporting our club and helping us to raise funds for the dance floor.
• Spread the word: Please tell your friends and family about our fundraising campaign. The more people who know about our cause, the more likely we are to reach our goal.

With your support, we can create a space where dancers of all levels can come together to enjoy the music, connect with friends, and move their bodies without fear of injury. Your contribution will help us build a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant dance community.

Donate Today!

5 C's of Dance: A Path to Mastery

As a dance instructor, I’ve been fascinated by the journey dancers take from beginners to experts. It's more than just learning steps; it's about developing a deep connection with the dance and growing as an individual.

Recently, while attending a USTA (United States Tennis Association) course, I discovered a powerful framework that beautifully aligns with this journey: the 5 C's from the American Athlete Development Model. These principles - Competence, Confidence, Character, Connection, and Creativity - are essential for mastering any skill, including dance.

Let's explore how these 5 C's can guide dancers on their path to excellence:

1. Competence

The foundation of any skill is competence. In dance, this means mastering the basic steps, techniques, and rhythms. As dancers gain proficiency, they build a strong base upon which to develop their skills further.

2. Confidence

As dancers become more competent, their confidence grows. This confidence is essential for taking risks, trying new things, and performing with expression and conviction.

3. Character

Character plays a crucial role in a dancer's development. It includes qualities like respect, discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship. These traits contribute to a positive and supportive dance community.

4. Connection

In partner dances like Swing and Carolina Shag, connection is paramount. It involves effective communication between the lead and follow, understanding each other's movements, and creating a harmonious partnership.

5. Creativity

Once dancers have a solid foundation in technique and connection, they can begin to explore their creativity. This involves expressing themselves through their dancing, adding personal touches, and developing their own unique style.

As we embark on our next Swing and Carolina Shag class series, we'll be incorporating these 5 C's into our teaching. By focusing on competence, confidence, character, connection, and creativity, we aim to help dancers not only improve their skills but also develop a deep appreciation for the art of dance.

What do you think about the 5 C's framework? Have you seen how it applies to your own dance journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Dancing Across Divides: An Afternoon of Unity at the Summer Instructors Ball

This past weekend, we had the privilege of attending the Summer Instructors Ball in Philadelphia, PA. This incredible event brought together dance instructors from across the region, from New York to Virginia, showcasing a diverse array of dance styles. What truly struck me was the power of dance to bridge cultural gaps and foster a sense of community.

A Melting Pot of Dance

The Summer Instructors Ball was a vibrant celebration of dance, featuring everything from Detroit Ballroom to Carolina Shag. Instructors, accompanied by their students, took turns performing short showcases, providing a glimpse into their unique styles and the rich histories behind them.

A Social Dance Haven

Between the showcases, the social floor was a bustling hub of activity. Dancers of all levels and backgrounds came together to share their passion for dance. The blend of different styles created a mesmerizing tapestry of movement, as dancers communicated through lead and follow, exchanging steps and rhythms.

Building Community Through Dance

One of the most inspiring aspects of the event was the sense of community that permeated the space. Dancers from diverse backgrounds came together, united by their shared love of dance. The Summer Instructors Ball served as a platform for collaboration, learning, and inspiration. It reminded me of the incredible power of dance to bring people together and foster a sense of belonging.

Conclusion

The Summer Instructors Ball was more than just a dance event; it was a celebration of human connection and the transformative power of dance. As I left the event, I was filled with a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to continue sharing my passion for dance with others.

Dust off your dancing shoes and travel through time with our Swinging Through Time Workshop!

This 2-hour workshop is your chance to explore the rich history of swing dance through its footwork evolution. Get ready to tap your toes and learn how swing dancing transformed across the decades!

Here's what you'll get for your $25:

• Charleston Craze: Master the iconic Charleston steps of the 1920s, including the side-by-side and the shimmy.
  *To learn more about the history, here a quick video: Abbreviated Charleston History - Lindy Hop and Swing Dance
  
  
• Partnered Charleston: Learn how the Charleston transitioned into a fun and flirty partnered dance in the 30s.
  
  
• Balboa Basics: Discover the smooth and close-bodied Balboa style from California, known for its lollies, paddles and more.
  
  
• Swingout Showdown: Explore the footwork differences between East Coast Swing and Lindy Hop, two major swing variations.
  
  
• Timeless Fun: Socialize with fellow swing enthusiasts, learn from experienced instructors, and most importantly, have a blast!
  
  
• Gourmet Pizza: Choose your favorite pizza from a menu provided by Furnace Neapolitan Pizza Pop-Up
  
  
• 3-hours of Dancing: Stick around and dance as we spin some Beach, Boogie, and Blues with a side of classic country and rock-n-roll from 7pm to 10pm ($5 admission for dance only)

No partner needed! This workshop is perfect for beginners and anyone curious about the fascinating footwork of swing dance.

Sign up today and get ready to Swing Through Time!

Swing Dance Your Way to a More Fulfilling Life: How Dance Can Spark Joy and Connection

Have you ever watched a couple swing dancing and been captivated by their effortless twirls and infectious energy? Swing dancing is more than just a fun activity; it's a gateway to a more flourishing life. 

While achieving ultimate fulfillment involves various aspects, here's how swing dance can significantly contribute:

1. Body and Mind in Harmony: Swing dancing isn't just about fancy footwork, think the Carolina Shag. It's a full-body workout that gets your heart pumping, improves coordination, and boosts flexibility.  The rhythmic nature of the music and the focus required to learn the steps can also elevate your mood and combat stress. 
   
   
2. Find Your Tribe: Swing dance classes are a fantastic way to meet new people who share your enthusiasm. This fosters friendships, creates a sense of belonging, and combats feelings of isolation.  Imagine a room filled with individuals eager to learn, laugh, and celebrate the joy of movement together.
   
   
3. Confidence Through Movement: Learning a new skill like dancing can be challenging. But mastering those steps and expressing yourself through movement is a powerful confidence booster. As you progress, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for your body's capabilities and feel a sense of accomplishment.
   
   
4. De-stress and Unwind: Let's face it, life can be overwhelming. Swing dancing offers a perfect escape.  It's a chance to lose yourself in the music, have fun, and express yourself creatively.  This can be a valuable tool to de-stress, improve your mood, and leave your worries on the dance floor. 

But the magic doesn't stop at the end of the class:

• The Community Keeps Growing: The world of swing dance extends far beyond the classroom. Social dances, workshops, and even performance opportunities often arise. This allows you to:
  
  
• Expand your social circle: You'll interact with passionate individuals, potentially building strong friendships and a supportive network.
  
  
• Become a Dance Master: Delve deeper into specific styles, improvisation techniques, or even explore the world of performance.
  
  
• Travel the World (One Swing Step at a Time): Swing dance events and festivals are held worldwide. Participating in these opens doors to unique travel experiences and cultural immersion.

Remember, a flourishing life is a multi-faceted journey. However, taking the first step into a swing dance class can be the spark that ignites positive changes in your well-being, social connection, and personal growth. So, dust off your dancing shoes, and be prepared to swing your way towards a more fulfilling life!

FREE** 6-week Beginner and Intermediate Swing and Carolina Shag dance classes will start up again at the following times and locations:

Every Wednesday night starting on April 10th and ends on May 15th
Colonial Heights Community Building, 157 Roanoke Ave, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
Beginner Lesson: 7:15 pm / Intermediate Lesson: 8:15 pm

Every Thursday night starting on April 11th and ends on May 16th
Colonial Heights Moose Lodge, 170 Moose Ave, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
Beginner Lesson: 7:00 pm / Intermediate Lesson: 8:00 pm
**For Moose members and qualified guests:
The Moose requests that any participant that is a guest and is not from the same household consider a Moose membership ($45/year) after two classes.

You can use this form to register for either class:
Spring 2024 Swing Dance Class Registration Form

Feeling the Spark of Collaboration Ignite!

 

Last night's intermediate class was pure magic! As we guided our students through building dances in layers and linked patterns, we witnessed something truly special: the seed of collaboration blossoming within our dance community.

It wasn't just about mastering moves (though those footwork combos were on point!), it was about connecting, responding, and building together. Watching them weave improvisations into each other's sequences, supporting each other with encouraging smiles and playful energy, and creating spontaneous moments of shared joy filled our hearts with so much warmth.

This is exactly what we dreamed of when we introduced this teaching approach. We wanted to encourage communication through movement, to break down barriers between dancers, and to spark a sense of shared ownership in the creative process. And last night, we saw it happen right before our eyes! ✨

We're so grateful for every single student who embraced this journey with us. You inspire us to keep pushing the boundaries of dance, to build a community where connection thrives, and to celebrate the joy of co-creation.

Here's to the future of our dance community, where collaboration ignites creativity and where every dancer feels empowered to add their unique spark to the collective flame!

#dancecommunity #collaboration #joyofdance #improvisation #buildingtogether #inspiredbyyou

P.S. Don't forget to share your favorite moments from last night's class in the comments! We'd love to hear all about your #collaborativecreations!

If you would like to experience the joy of swing and Carolina Shag dancing, come on out to our next beginner sessions that start on January 17th, 2024 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Colonial Heights Community Center!