Hi Jacqui,
Make sure that folks take hands-four (I'm assuming that you will be
calling contras) -- all the way to the bottom of the line. Take your
time getting that done -- it sends as clear signal that you care about
the dancers and are watching them. Then begin teaching, clearly, slowly
if necessary. Do a second walk-through. Then begin the dance. Call the
first few times through *very* clearly. Maybe the dancing will be sloppy
at first if many folks haven't listened, but after a few iterations, it
will come together. Remember, it's *their* dance.
Also, you might want to watch how some other callers cope with noisy
crowds. You may see major differences and effectiveness.
Sometimes, starting with a strong "Long lines forward and back!" -- will
get everyone's attention. Even if that is not the first move of the
dance. As long as you keep smiling, which I know you do.
BTW, no matter how noisy or boisterous the crowd, I never say "shhhh" or
equivalent or raise my voice. Haven't done that in more than twenty years.
Good luck with your first full evening!
Woody
On 8/13/2013 9:55 PM, Quiann2 wrote:
Hello,
I'm a new caller and have been noticing recently at some dances that the crowd
is quite chatty and noisy and it can take a long time to get them to settle
down and listen to the walk through. And then even during the walk-through the
noise level rises again so that some people in the hall can't hear the walk
through. I'll be calling my first full evening next month at a venue that is
known for the chattiness of the dancers. I want people to be able to socialize
but I also want dancers to be able to hear the entire walkthrough. Can you give
me some tips on how to balance socializing (i.e. how to judge when to start)
and ways to regain their attention mid-walk through without sounding like a
schoolmarm or raising my voice? Thanks much!
Jacqui
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Woody Lane
Caller, Percussive Dancer
Roseburg, Oregon
http://www.woodylanecaller.com
voice: 541-440-1926 cell: 541-556-0054
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