Re: [Callers] Hand Turns & Safety

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

This is a long term project of mine: to teach and encourage what I call
“the physical therapist approved” way to Allemande. I don’t seem to be
making much progress so am delighted that others care about it, too.

On Fri, May 17, 2019 at 8:55 PM Martha Wild via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> Hear, hear! My sentiments exactly! How on earth are you supposed to “give
> weight” (in the proper way, just a tiny bit so you are both part of a unit)
> and get around each other with a flat, palm to palm contact? The only way
> that works is that people bend their wrists so that they have some purchase
> on the other person. Which hurts my now no longer flat wrist! So wrong,
> painfully wrong. Please, please, please, stop teaching a flat hand
> allemande. It doesn’t work. Curved fingers, straight wrist, the thumb is
> just sort of loose and not doing much. Thank you for bringing that up, Erik!
> Martha
>
> On May 17, 2019, at 3:01 PM, Erik Hoffman via Callers <
> callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:
>
> John Sweeny below hoped we callers would teach more about hand turns and
> the like.
>
> I’ve been thinking on this for quite a while. Years ago I had a discussion
> with Brad Foster. We both lamented the loss of the allemande with mildly
> interlocking thumbs to the modern overprotective thumb against the side of
> the palm allemande. At that time I think I was still in Santa Barbara, thus
> it must have been pre 1994. I wrote an article for our dance rag called,
> “If Allemande Left, Where’d Allemande Go?”
>
> I talked about what I do when someone grips my hand—and I think all of us
> should remove that word, “grip” from our caller’s vocabulary…
>
> But the most important thing I discussed is:
>
>- Our Wrist is Strongest When It’s Straight
>- Our Fingers are Strongest When Curved
>- Thus, however one does an allemande, it should be a hook, with
>curved fingers and a straight wrist.
>
>
> Lately I’ve seen teachers promote the straight fingers, bent wrist, and
> flat palm method. The almost always makes one person’s wrist uncomfortable.
> Not as bad as when someone draws the others hand into that
> almost-Aikido-put-them-on-the-ground position, but usually quite
> uncomfortable.
>
> Thus I hope most of us learn the curved fingers, straight wrist, no grip,
> and, no thumb clamping allemande, ECD hand turn, two hand turn type hand
> connections.
>
> ~Erik Hoffman,
>Oakland, CA
>
> *From:* Callers  *On Behalf Of *John
> Sweeney via Callers
> *Sent:* Friday, May 17, 2019 2:09 PM
> *To:* 'Caller's discussion list' 
> *Subject:* Re: [Callers] Name that Dance
>
> Hi Rich,
>   I would just call it a “Big Set Mixer”.  It is a slight
> variation of the one in the Community Dances Manual.  Callers just make up
> a 32 bar sequence that works for their dancers.
>
>   While it is a good example of all ages having fun together,
> I really wish callers would teach the dancers just a tiny bit about how to
> do better hand/arm turns and swings :-)
>
> Happy dancing,
>John
>
> John Sweeney, Dancer, England   j...@modernjive.com 01233 625 362 & 07802
> 940 574
> http://contrafusion.co.uk/KentCeilidhs.html for Live Music
> Ceilidhs
> http://www.contrafusion.co.uk for Dancing in Kent
>
> http://www.modernjive.com for Modern Jive DVDs
>
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Re: [Callers] Looking for "fun" dances

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

   Linda Leslie wrote some really good ones. Do Si Three is always a big
hit when I call it for kids and parents (as well as at weddings and other
parties where most people have never danced.) She has many more.

http://lindalesliecaller.contracorner.com/dances/very-easy-dances.html


On Wed, May 15, 2019 at 8:51 AM Charles Abell via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> I'm sure there is already a thread on this somewhere, but I'm wondering
> what are your favorite dances for those in the 4-10 year old range.
> Specifically, dances that are not mixers since many younger dancers prefer
> to stay with a particular partner the whole time. I have a number of good
> ones already (Alabama Gal, Haste to the Wedding, La Bastringue, etc), but
> I'd like to expand my existing collection of dances geared towards "little
> ones".
>
> Let 'em rip!
>
>
> --
> *From:* Callers  on behalf of
> John Sweeney via Callers 
> *Sent:* Tuesday, February 13, 2018 9:58 AM
> *To:* callers@lists.sharedweight.net
> *Subject:* Re: [Callers] Looking for "fun" dances
>
> Since so many people enjoy the contrary circling in The Wheel, you might
> enjoy this one as well:
>
> Suicide Square
> http://www.ceilidhcalling.co.uk/danceviewpage.php?view=1=9
>
> It is extremely chaotic!  You can reduce the chaos slightly by getting the
> band to stop randomly during the circling, at which point everyone grabs a
> partner; the band waits a few seconds while everyone finds a partner and
> decides whether they are Heads or Sides, then gives two notes and starts
> the
> next Heads Gallop.
>
> I modify it to give a bit more recovery time:
>
> Start in a big square around the room
> A1: Head couples take partner in a ballroom hold and gallop eight steps
> into the centre and back
> A2: Sides gallop eight steps into the centre and back
> B1: All the men form an outer circle facing in, while the ladies form
> an
> inner circle facing out. All circle left then find a new partner
> B2: Partner Swing - stop early enough to decide whether you are now
> Heads or Sides - Heads get ready to gallop
>
> There is also The Muffin Man Jig:
> http://www.ceilidhcalling.co.uk/danceviewpage.php?view=1=11
>
> Happy dancing,
>John
>
> John Sweeney, Dancer, England   j...@modernjive.com 01233 625 362 & 07802
> 940 574
> http://www.modernjive.com for Modern Jive Events & DVDs
> http://www.contrafusion.co.uk for Dancing in Kent
>
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Re: [Callers] Easy flourishes or other "bonus" movements?

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

I think that dancers are more open to mastering those basic skills in the
context of a workshop teaching flourishes.

On Sat, Apr 27, 2019 at 12:21 PM Jim Thaxter via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> “More advanced” is a pretty vague term and could be interpreted in various
> ways. I didn’t think Colin’s response was “terribly” sarcastic. That, too,
> may be interpreted variously. Find your own way and be peaceful with it.
> More on topic, get the basics down first, then embellish.
>
> On Sat, Apr 27, 2019 at 11:16 AM Michael Dyck via Callers <
> callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:
>
>> On 2019-04-27 4:19 a.m., Colin Hume via Callers wrote:
>> > On Fri, 26 Apr 2019 14:44:32 -0700, Lenore Frigo via Callers wrote:
>> >> I would like to teach some of my more advanced dancers some flourishes
>> >> or other embellishments to contra dance. I'd like to start with things
>> >> that are easy and obviously that can be smoothly integrated into a
>> dance.
>> >
>> > How about first teaching them how to fit the dance to the music, giving
>> > weight in allemandes and circles, and doing a good buzz-step swing?
>> > Or would that not be considered politically correct?
>> Lenore did say that these are "more advanced dancers", so it seems
>> reasonable to assume that they already know these things. Why would you
>> assume they don't?
>>
>> I can sympathize with valuing fundamentals over flourishes, and I'm not
>> saying you should keep that opinion to yourself, just that I think you
>> could
>> find a less sarcastic way to express it.
>>
>> -Michael
>
>
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Re: [Callers] Contra dancing... on ICE!

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

This is terrific. Will you be posting this to any Contra groups on FB? If
not, would it be okay if I post to Triangle Country Dancers' page? I think
lots of people would enjoys seeing it.

On Mon, Apr 15, 2019 at 1:57 PM Luke Donforth via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> I'd like to share this because I think it's really fun.
>
> Several months ago, I was approached by the coaches of a Theater on Ice
> team about helping put together a program for their 2018-19 Choreographic
> Challenge, which was to showcase cultural dance. Burlington's team, "On
> Thin Ice" wanted to do a contra dance on ice.
>
> There were various restrictions; style and historic elements that they
> wanted included, coverage of the ring, movement on the ice, etc. What they
> generated is not a contra dance, but does showcase several elements of a
> contra dance, and they do it on ice.
>
> You can check out their performance at
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EzYx4XtxSs
>
> It was a learning experience for me, and a fun exercise in deconstructing
> and putting things back together with different constraints. For instance,
> they needed percussive elements in the choreography; I'd originally tried
> to sell them on petronellas; but they all balked at the turning over
> "outside edges" on skates (a harder feat).
>
> It's the first time I've every had folks dance to recorded calls, but they
> wanted them to add to the feeling of a contra (and I won't be travelling
> with them to nationals in Alabama this June).
>
> As a side not, for historical reasons relating to how their program would
> be judged, I used the term gypsy instead of my preference of an
> alternative. I still think they do a wonderful job of bringing contra dance
> to a different corner of the world.
>
> When I went to my first contra dance, I'd never have guessed where it
> would take me. Here's to more fun memories and interesting experiences in
> this community and others.
>
> --
> Luke Donforth
> luke.donfo...@gmail.com 
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Re: [Callers] Leading a 1 hr contra dance

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

Do Si Three by Linda Leslie is another excellent dance for newbies. It has
progression and swings (I encourage elbow swings) and it doesn't matter a
bit where one ends up. It's always been a great success when I've called it.

On Fri, Mar 29, 2019 at 11:02 AM Rich Sbardella via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> Casey,
>
> In a one hour gig with lots of newbies, I would suggest not using any
> progressive contras.  There are too many fun dances that usr similar basics
> without the complication of progression.
>
> I have been hired to call such contra dances, but found the most success
> calling dances likes "Rakes of Mallow", La Bastringue, Rural Felicity, Heel
> & Toe Polka, etc.  Few people in the crowd understand what a "modern"
> contra dance is, they just want to move to the music.
>
> Goodluck,
> Rich Sbardella
> Stafford, CT
>
> On Fri, Mar 29, 2019 at 10:05 AM Casey Carr via Callers <
> callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:
>
>> I would also start with a circle - teach giving weight, hand holds, 8
>> counts.  Might teach La Bastringue (keeping partners and 2 hand turn
>> instead of swing).   I would definitely not teach swings in an hour - no
>> ladies chains.   Just circles, stars, allemandes, dos si dos.
>>
>> Depending on the crowd could start with Gallopede or Virginia Reel, then
>> Family Contra would be perfect and end with another simple contra.
>>
>> Casey Carr
>>
>> On 3/29/2019 8:52 AM, Liz Burkhart via Callers wrote:
>>
>> I have a gig coming up at a library wherein I have one hour to teach and
>> call contra dances. It's a mixed crowd, and I heard there may be a lot of
>> tweens present. I think I'd like to focus on bigger picture things - moving
>> up and down the line, swinging, interacting with their set. I imagine I may
>> even cut out courtesy turns in order to minimize the time we spend on the
>> lesson. I've taught for small, mostly inexperienced crowds before but I
>> usually have a lot more time. I'd really rather get them moving than to get
>> bogged down in teaching. Does anyone have insight, suggestions, or advice?
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Liz Burkhart
>>
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Re: [Callers] In honor of George Rettie

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

Bill,
The dance is at the end of Emily’s email.  Note that it is in “indecent”
formation and a little tricky. As was our dear George.
Bree

On Fri, Feb 22, 2019 at 11:15 AM Bill Olson via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> Oh this is so sad.. "Suspenders George" was a good friend and one of my
> very favorite dancers when we toured down that way. George was always
> friendly and always helpful. And he sure was a great "dipper"..
>
> Please forward the Dean Snipes dance and I will call it next chance I get!!
>
> bill in Maine
>
> --
> *From:* Callers  on behalf of
> Emily Rush via Callers 
> *Sent:* Friday, February 22, 2019 3:55 PM
> *To:* Caller's discussion list
> *Subject:* [Callers] In honor of George Rettie
>
> Hi all,
> George Rettie, the NC dancer in the yellow ruler suspenders, passed away
> unexpectedly this week. He'd been dancing since at least the 1980's, and it
> was a rare dance that he didn't attend. He was always the first to
> volunteer (and did, more hours than I can count), personally thanked the
> musicians and callers, danced with beginners, dipped everyone beautifully
> and frequently, flirted with us all, could call one dance (Gene Hubert's "A
> Nice Combination"), brought his children into the dance community, and was
> a favorite partner to many, many dancers.
>
> Myra, Adina, and JoLaine are calling a dance that Dean Snipes wrote for
> George some years ago. If you're calling sometime soon and are so moved, I
> would like to invite you to call it too. If you're dancing, I hope you'll
> go up to the stage and thank the musicians and callers, welcome the
> beginners, and have an extra-good time.
>
> Love,
> Emily
>
> --
>
> George is Rettie, Willing, and Able
> by Dean Snipes
> Indecent (2s crossed), double progression
>
> A1.
> Neighbor balance & swing
>
> A2.
> Pass thru across, turn alone
> Star R 1x, pull by up and down with your neighbor
>
> B1.
> New ladies allemande L 1x while gents orbit 1/2 clockwise
> Partner swing
>
> B2.
> Long lines forward & back
> Ladies right hand pull by, neighbor allemande L 1.5
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Re: [Callers] Put Your Red Hand In

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

Brilliant idea; I plan to use it, too.

Bree Kalb
Carrboro. NC



> On Nov 6, 2017 7:19 PM, "Rich Sbardella via Callers" <
> callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:
>
>> I had a Girl Scout Dance coming up Sunday and I was thinking how I would
>> get 150 six to nine year old girls to know which hand was right and which
>> hand is left.  On the way to my contra calling gig on Saturday, the thought
>> arose that right hand sounds very close to red hand.  On the way to the
>> Scout Dance, I stopped and purchased scissors and some red ribbon (the
>> store did not carry yarn) and asked that the leaders tie a red ribbon
>> bracelet around each scout as they entered the hall.  When I called dances
>> with arm turns I called, "Turn your partner with your red hand, change
>> hands, other way back."  It worked so well that I know I will do it again.
>>
>> I thought I would share this trick, and then ask if anyone has useful
>> methods when working with only children.  Please share some trade secrets.
>>
>> Rich Sbardella
>> Stafford, CT
>>
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Re: [Callers] Moving past self-flagellation

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

I don’t have any additional suggestions but want to thank Maia for the
original post and appreciate all the replies. I think many of us identify
and it reassures me that I’m not the only one who has had to figure out how
to forgive my errors. I’ve found it especially helpful to notice the
mistakes made by well respected callers and how un-flustered they seem to
be by them.

>
>
>
>
>
> On Mon, Nov 6, 2017 at 11:10 AM, Maia McCormick via Callers <
> call...@listssharedweight.net > wrote:
>
>> So after a gig, I find myself haunted by one or two missteps from an
>> evening — the rolling start that was a little muddy, the thing I didn’t
>> teach clearly enough so the dancers never quite got it — even though the
>> dancers adjusted and all had a good time, and I still had the hall’s trust
>> and goodwill at the end of the evening.
>>
>> Is this a familiar experience for anyone? Assuming you’ve already learned
>> the lesson to be learned there, how do you move past it and stop
>> self-flagellating?Would love to hear some people’s thoughts!
>>
>> Cheers,
>> Maia
>>
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>>
>>
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[Callers] Traditional Dance and Music Retirement Community in NC

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

Hello Everyone,



A group of dancers/callers/musicians in the Triangle area of North Carolina
are in the midst of exciting plans to create a continuing care retirement
community centered around music and dance. We have been meeting with groups
of interested people, conducted a market study (with an excellent outcome),
started working with a group of consultants who design innovative
retirement communities, and have begun fundraising to pay for the design
process.

So far, we have focused on reaching out to local folks; now we are
spreading the word more widely.

If you are curious, please visit our website.
http://dancingintoretirementnc.org/

Right now, the website is the way we communicate with people out of town,
but I'll soon create a Facebook page and then an electronic newsletter. If
you are close enough to Durham, NC to attend a 1/2 day informational
session, let me know if you would like to be invited. We offer one every
few months--the next is August 26.


You can write to me directly or leave a message at the website if you want
more information or have comments/reactions.


Bree Kalb

Carrboro, NC
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[Callers] Similar list for musicians?

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

A brand new baby contra band is eager to learn more. Is there a list like
this one for musicians?

Bree Kalb
Carrboro, NC

Re: [Callers] Sad news: Louie

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

Small correction: the dance Friday is in Durham at the Reality Center.

http://www.tcdancers.org/schedule.html

On Mon, Mar 27, 2017 at 11:52 PM, Joy Greenwolfe via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> The *Triangle Country Dancers* in Central North Carolina would like to
> share the very sad news of *Louie Cromartie*’s passing. Louie was a
> well-loved and admired local dancer, caller, and mentor. We will miss her
> terribly.
>
> *Memorial Events:*
>
> There will be *two memorial dances *in her honor next weekend, both
> Friday, March 31st and Saturday, April 1st, coinciding with scheduled
> dances.
>
> Both dances will be at the Carrboro Century Center in Carrboro, NC. More
> info about dance times, location, and caller/musicians on the TCD website: 
> *http://www.tcdancers.org
> *
>
> There will also be a *memorial service* for Louie, that same Saturday,
> April 1st at 11 am.
>
> The service will be at:
>
> Community Church of Chapel Hill Unitarian Universalist
>
> 106 Purefoy Rd
>
> Chapel Hill NC 27514
>
> Google map
> 
>  link
>  https://goo.gl/maps/wTzAdsgMLv32
>
> There may be some home hospitality for dancers coming from out of town as
> well.
>
> Whether or not you can make it to NC, please keep Louie’s family,
> especially Robert and Thankful, in your thoughts.
>
>
> Joy Greenwolfe
> Durham, NC
>
>
>
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>


-- 
Bree Kalb, LCSW
301 W. Weaver St.
Carrboro, NC 27510
Psychotherapy and Mindfulness Meditation Classes
919-932-6262 x216
www.thewellnessalliance.com
www.facebook.com/carrboromindfulnessandmeditation

Re: [Callers] Modern Western Square Dance for Contra Dancers

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

I'm one of the lucky people who attended Andy's workshop in Durham in 2011.
Although I hit a wall 9or two) earlier than most people in the group I had
a great time. Andy is an excellent teacher and made it all lots of fun, if
overwhelming at times.  If my August wasn't already filled up, I'd
seriously consider doing this again. (Never did get to a local MWSD in the
area although a few of us thought we would.)

Bree Kalb
Carrboro, NC

On Sat, Mar 18, 2017 at 3:59 PM, Andy Shore via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> I realize this post qualifies as both shameless self-promotion, as well as
> possible improper use of this list for (somewhat) commercial purposes, but
> I do think this topic may be of particular interest to contra and trad
> callers and choreographers. Scold me if you must.
>
> I'll be teaching a special weeklong workshop at CDSS American Dance and
> Music Week at Pinewoods (Plymouth, MA) August 8-15, 2017 titled "Modern
> Western Square Dance for Contra Dancers".
>
>
>
>
>
> --

Re: [Callers] Variations of 3-33 by Steve Zakon-Anderson

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

I agree with Mark! This is a fabulous dance as it is and the dosido for the
women is just hard enough to be a fun challenge. (When I was a new dancer,
dosido 1 1/2 was the hardest move for me to do gracefully and on time. I
was so happy when I got it right!) When the caller teaches the alternate
B2, I hide my disappointment, but its not as satisfying as the original.

On Friday, December 16, 2016, Mark Hillegonds via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> Hi,
>
> I have always used the original version and don't ever recall the dancers
> having trouble with the DSD progression. While I respect and admire the
> folks creating variants they find helpful for their needs, for me, if it
> ain't broke, I'm not going to fix it.
>
> Also, I must say that pleased me greatly to see Maia's reference to my
> home town of Ann Arbor!!!  :)
>
>
> On Dec 16, 2016 4:27 PM, "Maia McCormick via Callers" <
> callers@lists.sharedweight.net
> > wrote:
>
> Fwiw, if I were to write a variation of 3-33-33 (and wanted to avoid
> ladies chain/star L), I'd do a figure like in Al Olson's 'Ann Arbor Four':
> long lines (8), P alle. R 3/4 (4), ladies alle. L 1/2 (4). Agreed that
> ladies' allemande L out of long lines, while there's no reason it doesn't
> flow, is bizarrely counterintuitive!
>
> On Fri, Dec 16, 2016 at 4:18 PM, Bill Olson via Callers <
> callers@lists.sharedweight.net
> > wrote:
>
>> Hi Kalia, yep, I agree.. I guess I should have said more about why I
>> preferred the original.. Anyway this is a great dance, a modern classic,
>> and i call it often..
>>
>>
>> bill
>>
>>
>> --
>> *From:* Callers > >
>> on behalf of Kalia Kliban via Callers > >
>> *Sent:* Friday, December 16, 2016 9:05 PM
>> *To:* callers@lists.sharedweight.net
>> 
>> *Subject:* Re: [Callers] Variations of 3-33 by Steve Zakon-Anderson
>>
>> On 12/16/2016 11:48 AM, Bill Olson via Callers wrote:
>> > 3-33-33
>> >
>> > Steve Zakon (Duple improper)
>> > A1 Balance N1, N1 pull by R, N2 pull by L , N3 Balance, box the gnat
>> > A2 N3 pull by R, N2 pull by L,  N1 swing
>> > B1 Circle L 3/4, Partner Swing
>> > B2 Long Lines F, Ladies dosido 1.5
>> >
>> > I'm aware of a "fix" to 333 where the W DSD 1.5 at the end of B2 was
>> > replaced by a W allem L 1.5.. I  think I remember talking to Steve about
>> > this and he referred to this as an "approved alternative" HIMSELF..
>>
>> I've both danced and called this alternate ending, and that allemande L
>> is pretty counterintuitive for the women.  It causes some glitches as
>> folks fight with their natural instinct to allemande R.  It works, but
>> you'll need to be really clear with the dancers that it's the
>> non-obvious hand there.
>>
>> Kalia
>>
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>> 
>> lists.sharedweight.net
>> This mailing list is for callers and people who want to be callers for
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>>
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Psychotherapy and Mindfulness Meditation Classes
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Re: [Callers] new (?) dance - with a shadow swing

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

I'd like to add this to my collection. Have you named it?



On Tue, Sep 20, 2016 at 1:48 PM, Luke Donforth via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> Hello all,
>
> I know the list has had big debates about shadow swings in the past. If
> you don't like 'em, you can pitch this. This dance was written for someone
> who wanted a shadow swing, and is something I might call at a shadow-themed
> festival session. As shadow swings go, I like the idea of swingus
> interuptus going from shadow to partner.
>
> To my knowledge, it's a new composition. Haven't gotten to test it yet.
> But I present it for comment and/or collection.
>
> Becket, cw
> A1
> Circle L 3/4
> Neighbor Swing
> A2
> Promenade across with neighbor
> Left Diagonal Ladies chain (to shadow)
> B1
> women start 1/2 hey straight across by Right shoulder
> Women Do Si Do 1x
> B2
> Shadow swing
> Partner swing
> (no slide required, circle with couple straight across)
>
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>


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Bree Kalb, LCSW
301 W. Weaver St.
Carrboro, NC 27510
Psychotherapy and Mindfulness Meditation Classes
919-932-6262 x216
www.thewellnessalliance.com
https://www.facebook.com/carrborokorumindfulness

Re: [Callers] Novelty & Gimmick Contras

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

Hi Linda,Yes, I forgot to note that it is double progression.  And you are right, the solo part of the dosido is actually 3/4. But I'm not sure what you mean by '...and must turn around." The 1s are facing down, the 2s facing up during all of A1. Did I misunderstand your question?Regards,Bree-Original Message-
From: Linda Leslie <laleslie...@comcast.net>
Sent: Mar 17, 2016 1:40 PM
To: Bree Kalb <b...@mindspring.com>
Cc: "callers@lists.sharedweight.net" <callers@lists.sharedweight.net>
Subject: Re: [Callers] Novelty & Gimmick Contras

Hi, Bree!That is a very novel way to get into a short wave Balance! and not al tall gimmicky, in my view. I watched the video…thanks for including the link. I have two questions for you:It seems the dance is double progression, correct?For the single do si do: the dancers stay back to back with their Neighbors to start, and actually do a 3/4 dosido into the wave, and must turn around  (neighbor now in right hand), right? This means that each dancer is facing their original direction of travel once in the wave. The link really helped with this move; when I read the dance, in my head I was picturing the dancers moving very differently.Thanks for the dance!warmly, LindaOn Mar 17, 2016, at 1:00 PM, Bree Kalb via Callers <callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:I wrote a dance that has a move I've not seen in a dance before. Although I'd rather not call it a gimmick. The 'reviews' so far have been good. There’s a video of Jack Mitchell calling the dance here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEp2vlYq1Nc=youtu.beThis is My Brain on Buddha ImpA1  Partners DoSiSo as a couple just ½ way until back-to-back with these Neighbors.    Drop hands with your Ptr, and complete the DosiDo solo with the N you have your back to,    until the women can take L hands, Rt to N, in a wavy line of 4. Balance the wave, walk forward to next Ns in a new wave of 4.A2 Balance this wave; with this new N, Swg.B1 Face across, Mad Robin (Gents sliding in front to the right to start)   Men keep moving to cross the set to your Ptr; Swg.B2 Circle L ¾; Balance the Ring, Calif TwirlA dancer suggested naming the move in A1 “Double Dose.” I like it, but another caller, Jack Mitchell, discouraged me from making up a new name when just explaining the move will do.  I’m curious what others think. ___Callers mailing listCallers@lists.sharedweight.nethttp://lists.sharedweight.net/listinfo.cgi/callers-sharedweight.netBree Kalb, LCSW301 W. Weaver St.Carrboro, NC 27510919-932-6262 ext 216http://www.thewellnessalliance.com/BreeKalb.htmlhttps://www.facebook.com/carrborokorumindfulnessRegarding the Use of Email -- Please Note: Although I use a firewall and my computer is password protected, my emails are not encrypted. Therefore, I cannot guarantee confidentiality of email communication. If you choose to communicate confidential information with me via email, I will assume that you have made an informed decision and I will view it as your agreement to take the risk that email may be intercepted. Please be aware that email is never an appropriate vehicle for emergency communication.  If you are canceling an appointment less than 48 hours in advance, please also leave me a voice mail message at my office.

Re: [Callers] Novelty & Gimmick Contras

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

I wrote a dance that has a move I've not seen in a dance before. Although I'd rather not call it a gimmick. The 'reviews' so far have been good. There’s a video of Jack Mitchell
calling the dance here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEp2vlYq1Nc=youtu.be

This is My Brain on Buddha Imp

A1  Partners DoSiSo as a couple just ½ way until
back-to-back with these Neighbors.    Drop hands with your Ptr, and complete the
DosiDo solo with the N you have your back to,    until the women can take L hands,
Rt to N, in a wavy line of 4.     Balance the wave, walk forward to next Ns in a
new wave of 4.

A2 Balance this wave; with this
new N, Swg.

B1 Face across, Mad Robin (Gents
sliding in front to the right to start)   Men keep moving to cross
the set to your Ptr; Swg.

B2 Circle L ¾; Balance the Ring,
Calif Twirl

A dancer suggested naming the
move in A1 “Double Dose.” I like it, but another caller, Jack Mitchell,
discouraged me from making up a new name when just explaining the move will
do.  I’m curious what others think.

 

Re: [Callers] Recognize this dance?

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

Either way is fine with me; I won't know for sure which I like better until I dance it.Also, I think the balance in the wave might work best forward and back rather than Left and Right. I would like you all to tinker with it to suit your preferences and needs.  And I'd love to know if you call it and how well it works (or doesn't.)-Original Message-
From: Bob Morgan via Callers <callers@lists.sharedweight.net>
Sent: Mar 11, 2016 10:56 AM
To: 
Cc: Caller's discussion list <call...@sharedweight.net>
Subject: Re: [Callers] Recognize this dance?

As I read that it's a four count allemande, almost a pull by left, to give a 12 count swing. Either option works I suppose. BobOn Fri, Mar 11, 2016 at 3:36 PM, Colin Hume via Callers <callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:On Fri, 11 Mar 2016 08:27:19 -0500, Bree Kalb via Callers wrote:
> B1    Women allmd Left 1/2; Ptr Swg

Bree -

I like the dance, but I would make the allemande left one and a half -
I think that fits the music better.

Colin Hume

Email co...@colinhume.com      Web site http://colinhume.com


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Bree Kalb, LCSW301 W. Weaver St.Carrboro, NC 27510919-932-6262 ext 216http://www.thewellnessalliance.com/BreeKalb.htmlhttps://www.facebook.com/carrborokorumindfulnessRegarding the Use of Email -- Please Note: Although I use a firewall and my computer is password protected, my emails are not encrypted. Therefore, I cannot guarantee confidentiality of email communication. If you choose to communicate confidential information with me via email, I will assume that you have made an informed decision and I will view it as your agreement to take the risk that email may be intercepted. Please be aware that email is never an appropriate vehicle for emergency communication.  If you are canceling an appointment less than 48 hours in advance, please also leave me a voice mail message at my office.

Re: [Callers] Recognize this dance?

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

No one has claimed this dance, so I guess I get to. Since it unfolded with 
little effort as I was driving home from meditation practice, I’ve given it an 
appropriate name: Dancing the Eightfold Path.   For a tight space (like the 
house concert/dance party I was thinking about at the time) you might 
substitute a gypsy/roundabout/gyre/whatever-term-you-prefer for the N Dosido.

From: Bree Kalb via Callers 
Sent: Friday, March 04, 2016 7:25 PM
To: Caller's discussion list 
Subject: [Callers] Recognize this dance?

This emerged as I was driving home Wednesday night listening to a Latter Day 
Lizards CD and thinking about needing some fairly simple, but interesting 
dances to call at an upcoming dance.  I can’t find it in my collection of 
dances, but it’s so generic, I think someone else must have composed it and I 
was merely remembering.

A 1   N DoSiDo; Swg

A 2   LLF Pass thru to an ocean wave (women take left hands); Balance the 
Wave

B1Women allmd Left 1/2; Ptr Swg

B2Circle L 3/4; Balance the ring, California Twirl

Thanks!

Bree Kalb
Carrboro NC






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[Callers] Recognize this dance?

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

This emerged as I was driving home Wednesday night listening to a Latter Day 
Lizards CD and thinking about needing some fairly simple, but interesting 
dances to call at an upcoming dance.  I can’t find it in my collection of 
dances, but it’s so generic, I think someone else must have composed it and I 
was merely remembering.

A 1   N DoSiDo; Swg

A 2   LLF Pass thru to an ocean wave (women take left hands); Balance the 
Wave

B1Women allmd Left 1/2; Ptr Swg

B2Circle L 3/4; Balance the ring, California Twirl

Thanks!

Bree Kalb
Carrboro NC

Re: [Callers] another new word idea

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

I've been undecided, and stayed out of this discussion. But this helps me make a decision. I have a lot of respect for Martha and Grant (and am addicted to their podcast), so I'm going to experiment with using a different term.I suspect the folk process will sort this out over time and that the most respected callers (e.g. those who are sought after for dance weeks and weekends) will probably influence what the rest of us do.Bree Kalb-Original Message-
From: Martha Wild via Callers 
Sent: Jan 27, 2016 1:23 PM
To: callers list 
Cc: Martha Barnette 
Subject: Re: [Callers] another new word idea

Well, I have changed my opinion. I decided to talk to Martha Barnette and Grant Barrett at Away With Words about the g-word controversy, figuring that if anyone could shed light on the origins of the words and the ethical use of language it would be them.They said that the origin is NOT the Welsh, but is indeed the same word used for the Romani people. And they also felt that it was a highly negative word and that we should try to find an alternative name for the move within our community. I think that the discussion will be on the next show - so if you are interested, tune in to Away With Words to hear their take on the subject.I”d prefer a word that has a similar quality - a soft sound - and a similar two syllable nature to it. That’s why gyre is a little bit problematic for me, on top of whether to make it a hard or soft “g". Tipsy? Mimsy (going along with they Jabberwocky theme)? Gimbal or gambol isn’t bad but isn’t very soft sounding. But it would be good if we didn’t have 20 different terms in different groups so that dancers going from one place to another would be OK when medleys were called. I can’t say I like many of the suggestions yet.Martha

Re: [Callers] Does this dance exist? / Beginner dances with chain, without star-L prog

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

I have been calling this dance for years with the title Foxglove and the author 
Tom Thoreau. 

From: frannie via Callers 
Sent: Sunday, September 13, 2015 1:39 PM
To: Maia McCormick 
Cc: callers@lists.sharedweight.net 
Subject: Re: [Callers] Does this dance exist? / Beginner dances with chain, 
without star-L prog

That dance is almost Push the Button "by" Rick Mohr except it has Ladies Do si 
do instead of Allemande.  There's also Small Potatoes by Jim Kitch. 

~Frannie

On Sep 13, 2015 10:30 AM, "Maia McCormick via Callers" 
 wrote:

  Wanted a beginners' dance with a chain but without a star-L progression. 
Jotted down this one. I find it quite likely that someone has written it 
before: 

  [untitled], imp.
  A1: N b
  A2: long lines forward & back
  ladies chain
  B1: ladies alle. R 1x
  P swing
  B2: circle L 3/4
  bal. ring and pass through

  So a) has this been written? And b) can folks recommend already-written 
dances that meet my criteria?

  Cheers,
  Maia

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Re: [Callers] Family dance questions

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

I've done house parties with just a fiddler who was very familiar with dance music and knows how to maintain the beat and play square tunes. Not everyone can do that. Does your dance community have a list serve or Facebook page where you can ask for that kind of assistance? Unless you can find someone with those skills, it might be best to have no music.Linda Leslie's DoSiThree is one of my favorite beginner dances, but usually after they've done some simple circles. Linda posted here a week or so ago her excellent strategy for getting people dancing and into a spiral that turns into a partner-less circle. I thought I 'invented' that approach, but it seems at least 2 of us came up with the idea. It works really well, especially if you enlist some helpers to get it started and to urge their friends to join. When I call at weddings I make it a condition of my contract that the bride and groom will play that role for at least the first dance. On Tue, Aug 4, 2015 at 6:18 AM, Claire Takemori via Callers  wrote:I want to learn to call & share family dances with more kids to spread folk music and dancing in our area (SF bay area, near Santa Cruz).

I've got an opportunity to teach dances for my son's nature class.  It will range in age from 5 to 15 years.  There's an option to work with just 8 years and up for some or all of the dancing.

My questions:

1. Can you recommend some really fun dances for starting out?  The first couple have be great so I can win them over with fun.

2.  I'm wondering how vital music is to the success?  I think really great live music is a major part of my joy of contra dancing.  We are not allowed to use electrical amplification.   I'm wondering if I could use a single fiddler?        And how do I locate a local fiddler who might volunteer playing?  Maybe a talented youth?

3.  I won't have a mic and will have to use a bullhorn.  Any advice?  I don't have a naturally loud voice, but do sing so I know about projection and belly breathing.

4.  They are thinking of 8 consecutive weeks, once a week for 15-30 minutes (before nature classes head out hiking).   Is 8 weeks a good initial exposure?  How long should each session last, 30 minutes?

5.  We might culminate with a "field trip" to a local barn dance.  Any advice for the preparation for that?

Thanks for any advice!

claire takemori



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Bree Kalb, LCSW301 W. Weaver St.Carrboro, NC 27510919-932-6262 ext 216http://www.thewellnessalliance.com/BreeKalb.htmlhttps://www.facebook.com/carrborokorumindfulnessRegarding the Use of Email -- Please Note: Although I use a firewall and my computer is password protected, my emails are not encrypted. Therefore, I cannot guarantee confidentiality of email communication. If you choose to communicate confidential information with me via email, I will assume that you have made an informed decision and I will view it as your agreement to take the risk that email may be intercepted. Please be aware that email is never an appropriate vehicle for emergency communication.  If you are canceling an appointment less than 48 hours in advance, please also leave me a voice mail message at my office.

Re: [Callers] sticky floors

[Bree Kalb via Callers]

Our main venue is air-conditioned and we also have large fans, but we 
still get really hot and some dancers open the windows, thinking it will
 help. It doesn't. One of our dancers suggested that keeping the 
windows closed would cut down on in door humidity and prevent the stickiness. It
 seems to have worked. Since the original question was about stickiness during humid weather, 
it seems that moisture is the culprit there as well. Adding any other ingredients 
(corn based or otherwise) to the moisture sounds like a potential mess.  -Original Message-
From: Mary Collins via Callers 
Sent: Jul 20, 2015 2:36 PM
To: callers@lists.sharedweight.net
Subject: [Callers] sticky floors

Has anyone experienced issues with their wooden dance floors becoming sticky during humid weather?  If so, what if anything has been done to alleviate the problem?thanks. Mary C. - Buffalo-- “Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass ... it's about learning to dance in the rain!” ~ Unknown