Thanks, Jim! This is a great idea, and I agree with you that interactions with one’s shadow might be used as a teachable moment. Your insight is appreciated. Linda
On Oct 10, 2015, at 7:31 PM, James Saxe via Callers <[email protected]> wrote: > Back in September, we discussed a topic raised by Maia McCormick: > >> ... >> >> There do exist some really fabulous shadow-swing dances that I would love to >> be able to call, as long as I could do so without putting anyone in an >> uncomfortable position. Do folks have ideas for ways to mitigate the >> potential harms of shadow swing dances? > > [See below for Maia's full message.] > > I've had an idea that I don't think anyone mentioned. First, a > disclaimer: I don't imagine that what I'm about to say will > sway any of you who are dead-set against shadow swings in any > circumstances. However, if you feel compelled to reiterate your > opposition, I hope you'll have the courtesy to respect Maia's > original request and do so under a different "Subject" line. > > Anyway, my idea is: Use the occasion as a "teachable moment". > > When you get to the shadow swing during the walk-through, or > perhaps during the second walk-through, point out to the > dancers that they'll be swinging the same person every time, > and give them a chance to discuss what is or isn't comfortable > for them. You might give examples: "Please don't dig you're > thumb into my neck", "My arm is not a pump handle', "Not too > fast", "Not so close", etc. Or you could make general remarks > about believing you shadow if they say something hurts, or > about how the person whose less interested in being flirty is > the one who gets to decide, etc. And remind people to that > they can make additional adjustments during the dance. > Exactly what points you (the caller) want to mention, what > words you choose, whether to employ humor, etc., will depend > on what fits your personality, what you see as the likely > issues in the particular community, how much time you feel > you can spend before moving along with the dance, etc. > > Note that this idea can be applied to shadow interactions > other than swings. > > For example, if a dance has an allemande with shadows, you > might let women and men (or dancers in those roles) take turns > showing each other their preferred hand holds, strength of > connection, etc. You might encourage them, if they have > different preferences, to give each other's suggestions a > fair try, but with the very important proviso (better stated > sooner than later) that nobody should be pressured into > doing something they think may be painful. > > If the action with shadows is a chain or a right and left > through, you could give dancers a chance to talk about their > preferences regarding twirls or about making the courtesy > turns feel comfortably connected without being *too* > comfy cosy for anyone's comfort. > > You could also occasionally invite people (and give them > some time) to have such discussions with their partners. > > Just a thought. > > --Jim >
