I don't often reply to myself, but I will this time, as I have another
thought to add.
I've thought for a while that our dances say a lot about where we have
been and where we are going as a nation and as a society. Not just
square and contra dances, but polkas, waltzes, ballet, swing, foxtrot,
samba, and also the twist, disco, YMCA, and so many others. A short
while ago I attended the New Hampshire State Council for the Arts Awards
presentations. The stage was shared by a number of award winners,
including Harvey Tolman, one of our favorite contra dance fiddlers, and
Ken Burns, film maker of considerable renown.
Following the awards, I sent a letter to Ken Burns to suggest that he
consider making a film about American Dance, to show how dances here
reflect the history and the social changes and melting pot in our
country. I've enjoyed the films that David Millstone has made with
contras dancing themes. I though that a broader examination of this idea
in the Ken Burns style might be a very interesting film. If others sent
him similar letters (
http://www.florentinefilms.com/ffpages/contact.html ) maybe it would
even happen...
Rich.
Richard Hart remarked on 5/13/2008 10:30 PM:
Hi Chrissy,
I'm often reminded how important it is to respect and learn from the
differences, while enjoying the dance. There are not nearly enough
places like a dance in our lives any more and we are all the poorer
for it.
Rich.
Chrissy Fowler remarked on 5/13/2008 10:19 PM:
Rich,
How nicely put! I was recently involved in conversations that
brought up this same thing -- that our particular form of social
activity can be a place where you can hang out and interact in a
generally positive manner with people with whom you might not
otherwise choose to spend social time and who aren't necessarily like
you! (different background, education, profession, class, gender,
age, politics, religion, sexual orientation, marital/family status,
tax bracket, cognitive ability, social skills, etc.)
Great reminder that you gave us.
Chrissy
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