I haven't been following this topic of lead/follow at all but Bree's
statement really caught my eye. I'm very curious to know what it's
like to dance as a women with men who have a wide range of skills and
personalities.
Sorry if this has already been discussed...
I should set aside an evening and dance disguised as a women to
really understand what the experience is like.
Tom
I'd like to repeat the point that the terms lead/follow are implicitly
communicating to (some) male dancers that they are in charge. Not
only does
this create pressure, but I think it contributes to a growing trend
I'm
noticing at my local dance; fairly new male dancers assume I'll
happily
follow their lead and seem dismayed (even insulted) if I choose not
to. This
sets up a dynamic of conflict rather than the friendly cooperation I
consider the soul of contra dancing.
Bree Kalb
Carrboro, NC
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