As usual, before the contra dance there is a half-hour session before the
starting time of the main dance. It is advertised, and beginners are encouraged
to come early. Depending on number of attendees and time left, rudimentary
basics are presented and 'lightly' practiced.
I would like this panel's recommendations for dealing with this situation:
the beginners session was offered and attended. The main dance had started
exactly on time when - ca. 20 minutes into the evening - a large group of
absolute newbies appeared and joined right in.
In light of this development the beginners session could have been repeated and
somewhat extended, even in an additional available hall in the same building.
Alas, no further help was offered except for the advice 'try to find an
experienced partner'.
Fortunately, the band for the evening was an absolute delight...
Hanny Budnick
