Ah. The age old question- what makes a good dancer?
Definitely something people have opinions on. Personally, for example, I prefer dancing with people who aren’t liable to start twirling me and other swing-dance-esque movements- I’m also NOT a fast and furious dancer. Mostly out of personal preference and some lightheadedness that I deal with.
I would argue that whomever you are, smoothness and confidence is paramount along with a good connection. Not grabby and not too loose- if you have danced at all you know that too loose of a connection or too heavy a connection can cause injury or awkwardness. It is a delicate balance that beginners especially struggle with.
Smooth and respectful are the two words that I define a good dancer as. If you are watching a dance, you can tell who is smooth (typically the older generation who keep their feet closer to the floor), and who is new, or young- a lot of that crowd tend to have this odd idea about skipping during movements.
I have picked up what I categorize as the old way of dancing because I prefer the way it feels, the energy it conserves, and the control I maintain because of it. Not to mention I am infinitely sentimental and history oriented so I like to keep traditions alive. If I knew all the old ways to balance, I would. Pigeon wings and all. As it is, I use my step-swing balance nearly exclusively now. It sets you up just right for the swing and provides an extra rhythm beat that I find satisfying, and it’s traditional for New Hampshire.
On respect: I have observed some dancers who tend to pull you close for swings, and this can be uncomfortable. There is some distance required- even though we are dancing I still have my personal space bubble. The whole art of defensive dancing is going to be a topic for another article. On the whole, you should be a part of the whole dance, not entirely dancing with each individual person as this is where uncomfortable things can happen, even accidentally.
The other part of respect is that everyone dances at different speeds. I have witnessed younger dancers swinging with the older folks and attempting to swing faster than the other is. Pay attention and swing at a comfortable speed- you should not be dragging your partner/neighbor around in a circle faster than they are comfortable with. Don’t push it.
Do you have qualifications in your mind as to what makes a good dancer? I’d be fascinated to hear from you on my facebook page comment section. I have another article in the works about manners, etiquette, and you. Stay tuned for more!
