Sandhill Crane notes that the Portland organizers put up signs instructing
people to enter the floor at the corners. I have been told that the corners
are the place to enter the floor. I have also been told the corners are the
wrong place to try to enter because that is where a couple finally has room for
a more expressive maneuver on a crowded floor. Obviously contradictory
information. This raises a question: Where and how have you been instructed
to enter the floor?
I was instructed that good manners dictate that as I approach the floor, or
stand at the side of the floor, I catch the eye of a lead coming down the floor
to "ask" for space. He gives me a slight nod or eye movement to let me know he
understands. Then he pauses to create a space into which I can lead my
partner. This way, he knows I am entering the floor and where. It is a very
civilized and can be done anywhere on the floor. The leads work together to
maintain decorum.
One of the biggest problems I've experienced across the US and in BA, is
couples who barge onto the floor with no consideration. They cram themselves
in when you have your back turned, jump into the corners, and otherwise don't
work well with others. It makes navigation harder than it has to be. It is
terrible to come out of a giro and find another couple who weren't there before
because they jumped onto the floor without appropriate space. And without
appropriate notification.
The St. Louis Hot Winter Tango 2009 had very poor navigation on Friday night
but it was much better Saturday night. Poor floor entering technique was a
problem both nights though.
Thoughts on entering the floor?
Jeffrey Maddox 317.698.8088
Bees, Trees, Plants and Dance
_______________________________________________
Tango-L mailing list
Tango-L@mit.edu
http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/tango-l
