Re: [Callers] [Organizers] contra dance gypsy

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Don,

Excellent!  I will include this w/ your Mon listing.

Can you send me a link to the bus line that gets
one to Concord?  I'd like to  start
listing these items along w/ the basic info
& see if it shakes anything up.  I know of
a few dancers somewhat locally who
drive electric cars.  We're not quite ready
yet, not having 220 at the house, and we
just recently got a Prius.  I had my heart
set on hydrogen, but you already heard
that story.

Thanks for having me up to call last
Monday.  It was very nice to see so
many familiar faces, as we haven't
been able to get there much.  Our
Fr/Sa/Su are booked, so Mon is often
just recovery time, and Judith rarely
goes to dances where I'm just dancing.
She very much dislikes not being able
to dance anymore, and that is
completely understandable.

Be well, thanks for your posts.
Paul

PS  Cotuit, any interest?

Here are the open calling dates:
(fell behind a little after loosing Sandywoods/slump)

Nov 9
Dec 14
Jan 11
Feb 8
March 14
April 11
May 9
June 13
July 11
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[Callers] Our collective & individual ways of reducing our carbon footprint

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Hello all,

Changing the subject line to reflect the topic
of discussion.

Thank you, and please think and contribute if
you can.  This could be a game changer.

Kind regards,
Paul

If people want to revisit the use of words,
please reflect that on a different thread.
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Re: [Callers] [Organizers] contra dance gypsy & fuel consumption

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Hey all,

This is a long email, as it includes three posts.

First, I hope people don't mind, but I'm ccing,
callers and musicians list here, as I think
we can collectively bring about a major shift
in habits w/ our concerted hive intelligence.

I am including the original two posts near the top of
this email, so callers/musicians list people can
see where this started.  PLEASE feel free to
cut out the original lengthy posts when replying.

First:

On 10/7/19, Heitzso via Organizers  wrote:
> I'm a believer that climate change is a real threat.

> I'm also a believer that our culture desperately needs activities
   that bind people together rather than fractures them apart, and
   I believe contra dance is an excellent way to do that.
   (sharing weight, dancing with everyone, ...)

> I've mentioned the issue of how do we change our contra culture
   to minimize our carbon footprint from traveling to non-local contra
   dances to my wife, Jennifer Horrocks, a few times over the years
   (she sews and sells contra dance dresses all over the country).

> Recently Liz Burkhart (on this email's "to" list) posted on Facebook
   about her trying to alter her contra lifestyle to minimize her contra
   carbon footprint.

> Cut-and-pasting from her post:

>> I've spent years with a contra habit that takes me to roughly one
dance weekend per month. The closest, besides our own, was 83 miles
away and the furthest was 795 miles. I am acutely aware that this is an
incredible amount of distance to be covered for just one weekend (sometimes
a week) for a pleasurable activity. It's been weighing on me more and more,
as it's becoming painfully obvious that our lifestyles aren't sustainable. My
lifestyle at home is mostly pretty simple, but I feel this nagging guilt
when I do something extravagant, like drive to Vermont for YDW. Although
we did our best to cram up to 6 people and our stuff in a van, we still
consumed a lot of fuel to make it happen. Some people flew, which consumes
even more.

>> I think I'd like to work on decreasing the amount of out-of-town events
I go to, and try to find alternative ways to get there. Carpools are great
and much better than driving solo, but we could do more. One dancer this
weekend took public transit and a bicycle from DC area to Vermont. A whole
band playing for a square dance weekend a few years ago biked from south
(I think New Orleans?) all the way to Nashville. I think this is really
admirable and more people should consider something like this. This
ongoing climate change makes our world a scary place, and it will only get
worse (it doesn't look like those with the power to fix it care to change
the high consumption status quo). It's also becoming more common for me to
have to drive distances to call contra dances, which is harder to find
carpool mates for. I'm not sure what that will look like for me - I am
fantasizing about a NE train/bike tour with dates far enough apart that I
can make it to gigs with this slower and less convenient transportation.
I'm also considering making a vow to never fly on an airplane again. Their
use is so incredibly terrible for our environment.

>> Has anyone been adapting their travel habits in the face of climate
>> change?

> I believe that we, our contra community, needs to openly start discussing
this issue.
I applaud Liz's public request for comment and solutions.

> Sincerely,
> Heitzso
> http://atgaga.com

Finally, my reply:

Yes, this is a very worthwhile discussion.

On a slightly side note, 2+ yrs ago a hydrogen station was completed
at a local super market parking lot 1 mile from our house.

I tried for 1 yr, writing emails and calling Stop & Shop, Toyota, Honda,
and people from Air Liquide who were the ones responsible for installing
the hydrogen station.  I got absolutely nowhere for all this effort.
I was told repeatedly by everyone I could get to talk to at both
Toyota and Honda (both who make hydrogen powered cars)
that there weren't stations to provide fuel to start selling these
cars anywhere but in CA.  To my knowledge (I live in Prov RI),
there are stations near Hartford CT, Mansfield MA (20 mi. from us),
Newton MA, (40 miles from us and close to Boston), and I'm sure
there are others nearby that I'm not aware of.  Perhaps you know
of others you could add to this?

CA is the only place you can buy these cars (is what I'm told).
Someone mentioned OR.  I called dealers there, and no luck.

SO, my very dissatisfied take on all this was that the industry
(car makers, etc) are doing worse than just dragging their feet
on switching to non-carbon based fuel alternatives.  It pisses
me off no end (esp having a station 1 mile from home).  But
honestly I don't know where to take this from here.

After all this effort, we switched out from a Toyota Echo ('05)
which had been getting just under 40 mpg for over 10 yrs, to
a Prius, now getting 55+mpg overall, but I'm still not happy
about the carbon footprint.
Biking is great, (but I'm 

Re: [Callers] sign up to list

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

The other way is to include yourself as a bcc on
the email you send to the list.

Happy calling,
Paul
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Re: [Callers] Riffing on "The Nice Combination"

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Star is half way around?
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Re: [Callers] Building to Contra Corners

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Hannah,

I whole heatedly double the recommendation for Corner Triplet
by Linda Leslie.

It even works w/ 4 cpls, as the top cpl becomes
the bottom cpl, (then essentially out 1 rd)  everyone moving up 1.

Good luck,
Paul
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[Callers] Caller needed for tonight's barn dance in Westford MA

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Can anyone cover this?

Please contact Mike:

mhar...@gmail.com

978-692-2039

Thanks,
Paul

This list ROCKS!!!
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Re: [Callers] Circles, Crazy Circles

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Rich,

Twilight Deliverance (DI):  no circles, has both N & P Sw.

A-1  N-S
   LL F
A-2  Star L 3/4 (Gent turns over R Sh for)
   P-S
B-1  Gents start 1/2 hey (L sh)
   Gents chain
B-2  Bal & Pet 2X (on 2nd turn 1/2 extra to swing new N)

To end dance:  Bal & Pet 1X, P-S

Yours in dance,
Paul
Prov RI
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[Callers] Need a caller this Sat Jan 27, Wareham MA

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Dearest Hive,

Is anyone available to call a dance this Sat, 7-10 PM, in Wareham MA,
just before the Bourne Bridge?

I've been down w/ the flu for 6 days and it hasn't let go yet.  No
voice, just a whisper.

Contact me off-list for details.  It is a small dance, typically 20-30.

Thanks everyone,
Paul

PS  If accommodations are needed, that can probably be arranged (don't
worry, NOT w/ me this time).
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Re: [Callers] Tired of Screaming

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Linda,

Hi!  Here is one option that I've used once and was very surprised by:

http://www.fullcompass.com/prod/131132-Roland-MOBILE-CUBE?utm_source=googleps_medium=shopping_campaign=googleps=googleshopping-musical_instruments===131132=EAIaIQobChMIhMLT6bHY2AIVE7nACh2nmAQ0EAUYAiABEgLJwvD_BwE

good luck,
Paul W.
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Re: [Callers] Multiple N swings / does this dance exist?

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Maia,

Another Second Time Around
Robert Cromartie   Becket

A-1 Cir L 3/4
  N-S
A-2 Cir L 3/4
  P-S
B-1 LL F
  Lad Ch L Diag
B-2 Lad Pull by R, Al L 3/4 w/ shadow
 P-S

Enjoy,
Paul W
Prov RI
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Re: [Callers] Allen Ortep's First Contra

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Mark,

Hi!  It seems the dance should work, but I do notice one quirk.  It
looks to be a becket R dance (in terms of progressing direction).  So
starting out in DI means the first star is shorter for the ladies than
it would be (one full time around) once you swing your P in the
B-2.

Michael, does this sound correct?

Paul W.

[Callers] Looking for a caller in RI for Fri June 16

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Hey all,

I'm helping a friend out who is experiencing some serious (but
hopefully temporary) stress.

Would anyone be interested in calling a dance in Prov RI on Fri June
16?  There may be other dates available at this series in the future,
for interested parties.

We are hoping to expand our go to list, so if you are up for some
travel and/or visiting area friends/family, this might be a good
dovetail.

We can provide a very comfortable couch (where many notable contra
personalities have spent a night, and don't worry, we are very good
about laundry:-) and at least breakfast the next morning.

Please contact me off list for more details.  Thanks.

Virtual group hug,
Paul

Re: [Callers] Reverse prog/becket R dances?

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Maia,

Culver City Contra, by James Hutson (becket R, for those who will:-)

A-1 LL F
  R & L Thru
A-2 Ladies Chain
  Star L 1X
B-1 New N DoSiDo
  N-S
B-2 Men Al L 1 1/2
  P-S

A bit more complex for a medley are:

To Have & To Hold  Don Flaherty

Triptophane Susan Kevra  (all 3 are great dances, imho)

Best,
Paul

PS  Yes, this list rocks.  Thanks to all.

[Callers] Is This a New Dance?

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Hey all,

Does this dance exist already?  If no, please give it a whirl and let me
know what you think.

Twilight Deliverance   DI

A-1   N - S
   L L  F & B
A-2  Star L 3/4   (to Ladies side)
   P - S  (Men turn back to S P)

B-1  1/2 Hey  (Men lead, L in ctr)
   Men's Chain  (pull by L, offer R to N)
B-2  Ring Bal, & Pet Spin to R  (2X)
   On 2nd, spin a little extra into arms of new N.

Dedicated to all the people who dance, play, call, live, love, & laugh in
Montague.

Re: [Callers] Just had to share this:

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Amy,

Thank you.

Called Cotuit tonight.  The evening was channeling your sentiments,
exciting & outside the box.

If you ever plan to get to the Prov or Cape area on a wknd and want to call
or play, please give me a shout. Housing available at a few spots.  I'm
just starting the Jan schedules, and so are 1 or 2 other dances.

Paul

It really was a most wonderful email.  Thanks again.

Re: [Callers] videos of rolling starts / musical walk thrus

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Don,

I confess.  It was me.  Probably let it run too long, but the band was so
hot.

Come and join us w/ great locals Amy Larkin & Ben Foss, if you're in the
area Jun 15, 7 PM.  Sorry, couldn't help it, but it is a nice floor and has
AC.



On Sat, Jun 4, 2016 at 12:22 AM, Don Veino via Callers <
callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:

> Caller is Paul Wilde, I believe.
>
> -Don
>
> On Sat, Jun 4, 2016 at 12:12 AM, Chet Gray via Callers <
> callers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:
>
>> Gallimaufry at Sandywoods (I don't know the caller):
>> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqhxqdRsuSs . The drone of a (giant)
>> hurdy-gurdy lends itself well to a rolling start.
>>
>

Re: [Callers] Recognize this dance?

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Can anyone identify the name/author of this dance please?

Becket

A-1 L Ch L Diag
  1/2 Hey (LR in ctr)
A-2 N B & S (N you chained to)

B-1 Cir L 3/4
  Bal & CA Twrl
B-2 P B

Thanks,
Paul

Re: [Callers] another new word idea

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

We've tried gyre and gimble a few times at a small local dance series.  The
few who responded were positive.  It has a certain je ne ces't quas (even
if we misrepresent the technical meaning of gimble :-)

Paul

Re: [Callers] Identifying Dances (Was "Anyone know this dance?"]

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

I am happy w/ the present system whereby identifying requests/ answers are
part of the regular forum.

Thanks,
Paul


> First of all, I think making changes is a bit premature -- nobody AFAIK
>> is complaining about the current stream of requests.  That said, Mailman
>> has the ability to create "virtual" mailing lists called topics:
>>
>> https://www.gnu.org/software/mailman/mailman-member/node29.html
>>
>> It would be straightforward -- once we agree on any topic names -- for
>> Seth/Chris to implement topic filtering.
>>
>
> Aahz speaks for me on this.  I don't find the current level any problem at
> all, and a sub-list tag
> wouldn't be a problem either.
>
> -- Alan

[Callers] Itty-bitty dances, triplets, Timing Correction for David's Triplet #5

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Quick correction on timing:

David's Triplet #5  David Smuckler

A-1  1s cast down own side to bottom,
   Back up ctr to cast w/ 2s
A-2  All do si do P  1 1/4 into way line of 6, balance
   Balance & Al R w/ P 1/2 into new wave &

B-1  Bal, Pul by P by R into hey for 6
B-2  P Gypsy & Swing, face up


Thanks to Tom for pointing this out.

And Levi Jackson Rag is by Pat Shaw

Thanks to all for the great dance suggestions.
Paul

[Callers] Fwd: Itty-bitty dances, triplets, odd numbers

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Donna,

Here are the figures for the three suggestions I sent.


David's Triplet # 5 (David Smuckler).  It has a lovely hey for 6 w/ a P
Gyre & Swing  to finish.

A-1 1s cast to bottom, ret up inside and cast around w/ same gender 2s
   All face P, dsd 1 1/4 to wavy line of 6, P in RH
A-2 Bal wave,  P Al R 1/2 reform (luv it) wave, Bal pull by P by RH into
  (Hands may help at first)

B-1 Hey for 6, when next you see your P
B-2 P Gyre & Gimble, end facing up to be proper, new top cpl.


Levi Jackson for 5 cpls. 1 top cpl and 2 pairs of sides, horseshoe shaped.

A-1  Sides R & L across set, ones walk to center slot btw 2 prs of sides
(traffic island)
   Sides R & L back, ones  finish walking to bottom of set and cast out
back to top

A-2  While top cpl is walking back to place, sides circle left (hands 4) 1X
   All face P and Do Si Do 1X

B-1  5 Ladies Star R (Leave 1, pass 1, turn w/ the next, guys NEED to help
out here)
   Again, 5 Ladies Star R (leave 1, pass 1, turn the next)  Set needs
to tighten up for B-1

B-2  Prom your new P 1 pl CCW & (balance if time) and swing your new P.
New Tops.


Square Line Special  Octet by Gary Roodman  starts w/ 2 hands 4 DI not too
far apart.

A-1  Lines of 4 at side F & B
   Trade places w/ person across in a very leisurely R Sh Gyre (lots of
time on this 1)

A-2  Face same person and RH balance, pull by, pull by L w/ N w/in your
hands 4
   Swing the next you meet (now you have broken out of hands 4) end in
a sq.

B-1  Heads F & B
   Head Ladies Chain

B-2  Heads go out to R and Circle L 1X w/ Sides, til heads are bk to bk in
ctr.
   Sides arch, heads pop thru, go around nearest side to from lines at
side.

With the right group, you can have lots of fun w/ this.  If the Sides go
out to R to circle w/ Heads, Heads arch, sides pop, and you have turned the
set 90 degrees (surprise) and lines at head go F-B.  You can basically call
whatever you want in the B-1 to make things fun, but use your best
judgment, it can get confusing dancing this the first time.  I'm still
looking at ways to get the entire set to mix Ps.  As presently written, not
everyone gets to be a P to all 4 dancing the opposite roll.  Would love
some insights how to make this happen in a simple fashion (at least at
first).

Paul

Re: [Callers] dances in unusual formations

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Donna,

Levi Jackson Rag, for 10.  Becoming a local favorite when numbers permit.
One I really like is David's Triplet #5 by David Smuckler.  (It has a hey
for 6, or do it w/ hands to introduce a grand R & L).  Nice dance.

Another quirky one that is a hybrid contra/square is Square Line Special by
Gary Roodman.
Lots of ways to mix things up in the B part.

best regards,
Paul

[Callers] A Rededication & Renaming of a Dance Formerly Known as Jeff's Gypsy

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Jeff's Gyre & GimbleDI

A-1  1s Gyre & Gimble (R Sh)
A-2  Down Hall Line of 4,  2s Hand Cast 1's (or trn as cpl), return

B-1  Circle L 1X (all are back to orig DI)
   Pass N-1 by R and Gyre N-2 by L
B-2  N-1 Gire & Gimble  (R Sh)

Notes:  This dance needs room, so best to keep lines short.  Using the hand
cast in A-2 means you will also need space width wise.  The effect in the B
part is of sweeping figure 8s along the side of the set.  Tunes w/ ECD
feeling work well.

The terms will need defining for the first or second time you use them w/ a
group, but I suspect people might willingly adopt them w/ a smile.  Thanks
for suggesting this.  Lovely.

This dance was written in honor of Jeff Ratch, a dear friend and dancer who
left us much too soon.  Jeff was able to make me howl w/ laughter quicker
than anyone I've met.  It was hard to explain to people as we danced back
in at the end of a line why I was so hysterical.

Jeff, if you've been keeping tabs on us, I hope you get a huge belly laugh.
Let us continue to revel in joyfulness, gentleness, and remain respectful
of others.

Paul

PS  It felt appropriate to rephrase this dance, written as a memorial, on
the cusp of Halloween & All Souls Day, esp. w/ the extra hr thrown in to
help blur the lines a little more.

If you try it, please let me know how it was received.

Re: [Callers] Seeking contras for a crowded hall

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Jim,

I have had a lot of fun w/ mescolanzes and find them to be an efficient use
of space.  They require a little more room lengthwise than that of a hands
4, but considerably less in width, compared to 2 lines of hands 4.
Similarly, 2 sets of 4 X 4 if 4 sets of hands 4 is too crowded across the
width of the hall.  Your space btw sets, and the wall is reduced from 5 to
3 in the latter example.  It is also a great way to combine the 1st line to
form w/ the latter line, which can have some obvious advantages for mixed
level trail buddies, instead of lines that often tend to be more distinctly
homogenous.

I personally do not care for full heys in tight quarters, but half heys are
easier & more satisfying.  Down the hall is tough if you are short on hall
length.

Once we learned what I remember being called a Portland style (?) promenade
across the set, by Lisa Greenleaf, while we were fairly smushed.  As I
recall, the two cpls walk 2 steps straight toward each other, then both
turn sideways (to their R 1/4 as a single unit, still facing your Ns) slide
past the other cpl in the center of the set, and once clear, turn another
1/4 to the R, still facing them and now the direction you came from, and
back out to the other cpl's original spot.  Satisfying move and compact
crossing in a promenade.

Just a few thoughts w/o having cards handy.

Can't wait to hear more.

-Paul

Re: [Callers] Itty-bitty dances, triplets, odd numbers

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

Kalia,

I love David's Triplet # 5 (David Smuckler).  It has a lovely hey for 6 w/
a P Gypsy Meltdown to finish.

A-1 1s cast to bottom, ret up inside and cast around w/ same gender 2s
   All face P, dsd 1 1/4 to wavy line of 6, P in RH
A-2 Bal wave,  P Al R 1/2 reform (luv it) wave, Bal pull by P by RH into
  (Hands may help at first)

B-1 Hey for 6, when next you see your P
B-2 P Gypsy & Swing, end facing up to be proper, new top cpl.

Paul

Re: [Callers] Yet Another "Does this dance already exist?"

[Paul Wilde via Callers]

I remember dancing this in Seattle last year w/ David Kaynor calling.
Didn't catch the name.  Great dance.  Requires everyone to be alert.

best,
Paul W.
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Re: [Callers] Looking for someone for the 4th Saturday in May in Norwich, Vermont

[Paul Wilde]

Fellow Rabble Rousers,

Ooops!  Pressed send w/o checking the to box.  Mea culpa.

Paul

Re: [Callers] Looking for someone for the 4th Saturday in May in Norwich, Vermont

[Paul Wilde]

Chip,

Hi!  How cool to be getting this email from you.  How the heck are you?

Judith and I came to a dance in Greensboro one Sun night several yrs.
back.  We were the only dancers there until about 1/2 hr before the
end of the evening, when 1 other couple showed up.  All of you were
quite wonderful, especially the lovely fiddler/violinist/ artist who
took us home and gave us lodging that night.

I would love to call for you sometime in the future.  Unfortunately, I
am booked for the 4th Sat in May, but please let's keep in touch, and
look for other dates.

It's great to be back in touch.  I see Lois at dance festivals, and we
danced together several times at NEFFA this yr.

More later.

warmest regards,
Paul Wilde
Prov RI

Good luck grabbing a caller for May 24th.  I'm sure something will
come together from your SW post.  Do keep me in the loop.

Re: [Callers] 1820s-1830s Dances

[Paul Wilde]

Rich,

Hi!  First thing that comes to mind is "Cracking Chestnuts" by David
Millstone & David Smuckler.  This is an excellent collection of dances
w/ fine historical (and ed) notes.

Paul Wilde

[Callers] End Effects

[Paul Wilde]

Hey all,

Just wanted to reconfirm that George Marshall gets credit for "stand
where you land".
It was the first place I heard it.  George, hope you don't mind :-)

best,
Paul

[Callers] End Effects

[Paul Wilde]

Kalia,

Last month @ Pinewoods George Marshall was calling the afternoon
contra sessions @ E & A.   Lots of fun & really interesting dances.
On some of the beckets, where the cpl out at the end (whether partners
or neighbors) needed to stay right where they are, he taught/called,
'stand where you land'.  I think diagonal chains or pass thrus would
usually put the cpl out in this position.  Another nice call for end
effects for cpls who are not involved w/ a diagonal move (etc.) is,
'for those who can'.

If the dance has a very unusual series of end effects, I try to
analyze the scenario the end cpls are experiencing, then synthesize it
into the most helpful but pared down advice that will alert dancers to
at least what sorts of things to be ready for.  This may not require
telling them every little pc, as it may differ slightly for top and
bottom cpls, depending on even or odd # of cpls in the line.

More specific example provided upon request.  Would love to hear what
others have to say on topic.

hugs around,
Paul

Re: [Callers] hambo

[Paul Wilde]

Oh boy, there will be some disagreement on this one, from past experience
of the same topic.

For me as a dancer?  126-128 bpm seems just right, but I haven't tried it
up a steep hill w/ wooden shoes yet, which I hear happens on occasion.  Can
anyone verify this rumor (-:?

Paul

Re: [Callers] New contra dancers and similar figures

[Paul Wilde]

Jim,

OMG what a great post.  You have so hit the nail on the head and presented
it so eloquently.

I believe good dancers who are community oriented (rather than dance gypsy
jaded, as Joelaine so brilliantly points out in her home page post on
gmail) are going to be just fine w/ the caller choosing appropriate dances
for the crowd.  Just 2 days ago I called a relatively new dance series that
vacillates between mostly experienced one month to having a large group of
first timers showing up the next.  This Wed. there were a number of first
timers who were retirement age and beyond.  I could have kissed all the
experienced people for their patience, understanding, and having a great
time even though the first half of the program was pretty tame compared to
usual.  I'm happy to say, the new people were having a blast and wanted to
do it again.  Phew!!

Paul

PS  I called several dances that night that have sat unused in my file for
several years.




> I think we can keep two things in mind at the same time:
>
>   (1) Dancing with the feeling that you know what you're
>   doing is usually more fun that milling around with
>   a feeling of confusion.  Things like choosing
>   dances appropriate to the crowd, teaching clearly,
>   and building dancer's skill can be good because
>   they add to the fun.
>
>   (2) What's even less fun than milling around in confusion
>   is milling around in confusion and feeling that the
>   caller and/or the other dancers are upset about it.
>   Stuff about dance skills and "doing it right"
>   shouldn't take precedence over fun.
>
> As callers we can aim both to keep the amount of confusion
> low and to set a gracious tone towards whatever confusion
> may still arise.  (Doing the opposite of both these things
> is unfortunately easy:  Just pick inappropriate dances,
> teach and call them poorly, and then bark at the dancers
> when the inevitable confusion arises.)
>
> --Jim
>
>
> __**_
> Callers mailing list
> call...@sharedweight.net
> http://www.sharedweight.net/**mailman/listinfo/callers
>

Re: [Callers] Spanish Waltz

[Paul Wilde]

John,

Mea culpa.  I stand corrected on the terminology, which I ruefully
reconsidered after posting.  Pt. taken.

Thanks,
Paul

Re: [Callers] Tampering with a classic again 3-33-33

[Paul Wilde]

In *Cracking Chestnuts* by David Smuckler & David Millstone, there is a
humorous and most enlightening history of the evolution of Money Musk which
runs 12 pages.

While I completely respect the authors original intent and choreography, I
do agree that there is room for variation when the need arises.  Factors
could include heat, physical condition, and plenty of other reasons.

Dances are also being tweaked and given different names often enough.

Richard's point about the Odyssey is especially cogent.

What a great list.  Thanks everyone.

Paul

[Callers] Dancing in the Heat

[Paul Wilde]

Esteemed colleagues,

2 weeks ago I called my first "period' event, a Civil War Ball for teens &
their parents, most new to dancing, nearly all dressed in amazing costumes.

It was a good night, with about 50 dancers attending.  The highlight of the
evening came during the last called dance, The Spanish Waltz.  It was a
mystical experience, one of those rare moments when everyone in the room
becomes one with the music, and the choreography is just mesmerizing to
watch.

Admittedly, it is not a contra, but I see no reason to let that stop anyone
from calling this truly gorgeous dance.  It works w/ a 32 measure waltz in
Sicilian Circle formation, and quite simply starts w/ partner's inside
hands joined, in waltz time:

(1-16) w/ P F & B, then inside hand (same hand) to N for CA twirl  (4 m.)
 w/ N F & B,   " inside hand to P for CA twirl
   (4 m.)
 w/ P F & B   " "   " to N for CA twirl
   (4 m.)
  w/ N F & B  " "   " to P for CA twirl
   (4 m.)
(17-20) Hands Across R H Star
(21-24) L H Star
(25-32) w/ P Waltz on to next set of Ns

Version I have calls for waltzing ccw around other cpl 1 1/2 times to
progress
I sent them cw and said it was ok to only waltz 1/2 way around other cpl,
seeing it was hot and they were so finely dressed (petticoats, long hoop
gowns, etc.).  I can see the logic of traveling ccw around other cpl, but
in spite of that, it was one of the more magical dance moments I've
witnessed.  Enjoy.

Paul

PS  While I'm on the topic, here is a short list of other dances that might
work well in warm weather:

Flirtation Reel (Tony Parkes)  first 2 dances have down
the hall &
Jeff's Gypsy   (my own) 1s & N Swing (not 2s)
Broken Sixpence(Don Armstrong)   down the hall & just 1s swing
Mad Scatter   (Rick Mohr)   mixer
E. Litchfield Volunteers   (Jim Gregory)nice & easy
Lady Walpole's Reel(Trad.)*
Coconut Custard Pie   (Lynn Ackerson)   mescolanza (hi energy feel to
it)


*  Rumor has it Lady Walpole wanted a dance where P (read husband)
interaction was kept to a bare minimum.

Re: [Callers] Tampering with a classis aagain 3-33-33

[Paul Wilde]

Hey all,

I've seen it called w/ a ladies chain ending the B-2, which worked very
nicely.   Seemed to eliminate the confusion.  I think it all depends on the
crowd and walk through.

Paul

[Callers] A Farewell June 1 Dance to Benefit CDSS/NEFFA, Callers & Musicians Sought, Medway MA

[Paul Wilde]

Hey all,

This is a little bit of an unusual request for the list and I hope
it's w/in bounds.

If you are not headed to The Dance in memory of Nat Hewitt in Falmouth
ME , June 1 and are free & willing, please consider:


Sat, June 1, 7:30-10:30 pm: a benefit contra dance for CDSS &
NEFFA at Christ Episcopal Church, 14 School St, Medway MA. Paul
Wilde & members of the PJammers invite ALL dancers, including
musicians  and callers (who are welcome to dance as well as call or play).
Contact Paul at zenye...@gmail.com for further info. Please
come and make the final spin around this beautiful floor a success.

Is there a musician's list that parallels the shared wt. caller's
list, and how might I post/join it (if the above request seems
appropriate)?  Thanks.

warmest regards,
Paul

Re: [Callers] Dance title?

[Paul Wilde]

Mac,

This is very similar to Another Second TIme Around (I believe the author is
Robert Cromartie), difference being in ASTA (as I have it) the A-1 is Cir L
3/4 and swing N, w/o the pass through.  It is a GREAT dance, but very
vigorous.

best,
Paul


Here is a dance I collected a few years ago - but the caller did not
> mention the name or author.  Without that info - I haven't called it much
> even thought I really like the dance.
>


>
> Help will be appreciated
>
> Becket
>
> A1 - Cir L 3/4 - pass thru swing next neighbor
> A2 Cir L 3/4 - Swing Partner
> B1 Lines for & back - ladies chain on left diagonal
> B2 - Ladies pull by right - allemand left shadow swing partner agai
>
>

[Callers] Inclusivemess & Older Dancers

[Paul Wilde]

Hey all,

Seeing the topic of inclusiveness has just popped up, I would like to start
a new thread.  I would like to see us share some dance choices that are
best suited for older dancers, ones that are fun and interesting to dance,
but not quite so physically demanding as some of the high energy and
sometimes high count dances.  Wouldn't it be great to have a section of our
dance decks especially set aside for this?

It's late, so I'll offer up a few of my own choices on the subject soon.

Paul

[Callers] Favorite Dances

[Paul Wilde]

Hey everyone,

I'd like to return to Michael's original thread, before it is forgotten.
 The idea of posting our favorite 2 or 3 dances seems like a wonderful
chance to share resources and enrich our dance communities.

Thanks,
Paul

On Thu, Nov 29, 2012 at 10:19 PM, Michael Fuerst 
 wrote:

> If you had to choose one or two or at most  three  ...

Re: [Callers] Fw: What is the best contra dance(s) ever written?

[Paul Wilde]

Kalia,

In Bowl of Cherries, the original calls for the cross trail without hands,
which tends to make it part of the amazingly smooth & flowing dance it is.
 Hands help if you have beginners in the line.  You can teach it with
hands, and then point out that the actual dance doesn't use hands at this
point.  So many choices.

Men can gypsy, too (instead of Women), because the other partner is where
the swing takes place.  OR, one person from each couple gypsy.  Last time
through, EVERYBODY gypsy :-)  (My apologies to Sue).

warmest regards,
Paul

Re: [Callers] Fw: What is the best contra dance(s) ever written?

[Paul Wilde]

To Have & To Hold  by Don Flaherty  Becket R (CCW)

A-1  LL F
   Ladies Chain R Diagonal (those who can)
A-2  Pass Thru (across set) & Swing

B-1  Circle L 1X
   Gents Al R 1X
B-2  Gent 2 Al L 1/2,  Gent 3 Al R 1/2
   P-S

Original has the 3 Allemandes happening all in second half of B-1.  It's
your choice, really (tempo, crowd, etc.)

Notes:  after Circle L, I have men step into long wavy line in center
(teaching purposes only).  Identify Gent 1 in R hand, Gent 2 in L hand, and
P is on L Diagonal (gents destination).  Drop L hands and start Al R.

Double progression (thank you David Smuckler & Chris Weiler for getting me
straight on this), so men at ends need to be ready to do 2 of the 3
Allemandes.  Lady will be where P needs to get to for Swing, in case of end
of line confusion.

Was informed that at the end of the Circle, Gents need to give Ladies room
(to get out of the way) before Gents go into Allemande "frenzy".

I like to Becket R (in spite of some council saying it doesn't matter) to
help give dancers a little directional aid, as the dance  *progresses to
the R*.

Enjoy,
Paul

PS  If I am ever at a dance you are calling, I would be greatly
appreciative to have this one called.
PPS  Thank you ever so much, Donna Hunt, for your wonderful generosity in
handing this to me in my early days.  I still love it.

Re: [Callers] What is the best contra dance(s) ever written?

[Paul Wilde]

Hey all,

Three of my favorite contemporary dances are:

To Have & to Hold  by Don Flaherty
The Second Time Around (apologies, author temporarily slipped my mind)
Bowl of Cherries  by Sue Rosen

Not intentional, but there isn't a balance in one of them.

warmest regards,
Paul Wilde

Re: [Callers] Taking hands four

[Paul Wilde]

Kalia,

LOL!  A nearly universal problem, I'm guessing.  Tony Parke's license plate
is HANDS4.  Now that I'm calling, it's taken on a whole new meaning.

Paul

[Callers] Please Trim Your Posts

[Paul Wilde]

Hey all,

Just a gentle reminder per earlier (lengthy) discussions:  please trim all
unnecessary posts when replying to a message.  We are busy folk and don't
need the extra verbiage (which we've already seen at least once) to slog
through.  If it's previously posted but really necessary to include, just
clip and include those important lines when replying.  THANK YOU!

Paul

On Mon, Aug 6, 2012 at 8:41 AM,  wrote:

> Hi Kalia,
>Welcome.  I am also new to Sharedweight and have
> found it very  helpful.
>
>   Joe De Paolo
>
>
> In a message dated 8/5/2012 12:00:19 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,
> callers-requ...@sharedweight.net writes:
>
> Send  Callers mailing list submissions to
> call...@sharedweight.net
>
> To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide  Web, visit
> http://www.sharedweight.net/mailman/listinfo/callers
> or, via email, send a  message with subject or body 'help' to
> callers-requ...@sharedweight.net
>
> You can reach the person managing the  list at
> callers-ow...@sharedweight.net
>
> When replying,  please edit your Subject line so it is more specific
> than "Re: Contents of  Callers digest..."
>
>
> Today's Topics:
>
> 1. Hello!  (Kalia Kliban)
> 2. Re: Hello! (rich sbardella)
> 3. Re: Hello! (Mark Hillegonds)
> 4. Re: Hello! (Greg  McKenzie)
> 5. Re: Hello! (Joyce Miller)
> 6. Re:  Hello! (Laur)
> 7. Re: Hello!  (barbara...@aol.com)
> 8. Re: Hello! (Bill  Baritompa)
>
>
> --
>
> Message:  1
> Date: Sat, 04 Aug 2012 11:52:43 -0700
> From: Kalia Kliban  
> To: call...@sharedweight.net
> Subject:  [Callers] Hello!
> Message-ID:  <501d6f7b.30...@sbcglobal.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain;  charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed
>
> Hi all,
>
> I've just joined up  and wanted to say hello.  I'm a new contra caller
> but longtime  English caller from Sebastopol, CA, about an hour's drive
> north of San  Francisco.  I saw a few familiar names as I was cruising
> through some  of the archives, but look forward to getting more familiar
> with the cast  of characters here as time goes on.
>
> Kalia  Kliban
>
>
> --
>
> Message: 2
> Date:  Sat, 4 Aug 2012 12:10:00 -0700 (PDT)
> From: rich sbardella  
> To: ka...@sbcglobal.net, Caller's discussion  list
> 
> Subject: Re:  [Callers] Hello!
> Message-ID:
> <1344107400.31875.yahoomailclas...@web180014.mail.gq1.yahoo.com>
> Content-Type:  text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
>
>
>
> --- On Sat, 8/4/12, Kalia Kliban   wrote:
>
>
> From: Kalia Kliban  
> Subject: [Callers] Hello!
> To:  call...@sharedweight.net
> Date: Saturday, August 4, 2012, 2:52  PM
>
>
> Hi all,
>
> I've just joined up and wanted to say hello.? I'm  a new contra caller but
> longtime English caller from Sebastopol, CA, about an  hour's drive north
> of
> San Francisco.? I saw a few familiar names as I was  cruising through some
> of the archives, but look forward to getting more  familiar with the cast
> of
> characters here as time goes on.
>
> Kalia  Kliban
> ___
> Callers mailing  list
> call...@sharedweight.net
> http://www.sharedweight.net/mailman/listinfo/callers
>
> Kalia,
> Welcome  from the right hand coast.
> Rich Sbardella,  CT
>
> --
>
> Message: 3
> Date: Sat, 4 Aug  2012 16:00:20 -0400
> From: "Mark Hillegonds"  
> To: "'Caller's discussion list'"  ,
> 
> Subject: Re: [Callers] Hello!
> Message-ID:  <005301cd727b$c72420f0$556c62d0$@net>
> Content-Type: text/plain;   charset="iso-8859-1"
>
> Welcome also from the peninsular coasts  (Michigan)
>
> Mark Hillegonds
>
> cell:   734-756-8441
> email:  mhillego...@comcast.net
> blog:   www.defriction.com
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From:  callers-boun...@sharedweight.net
> [mailto:callers-boun...@sharedweight.net]  On Behalf Of rich sbardella
> Sent: Saturday, August 04, 2012 3:10 PM
> To:  ka...@sbcglobal.net; Caller's discussion list
> Subject: Re: [Callers]  Hello!
>
>
>
> --- On Sat, 8/4/12, Kalia Kliban   wrote:
>
>
> From: Kalia Kliban  
> Subject: [Callers] Hello!
> To:  call...@sharedweight.net
> Date: Saturday, August 4, 2012, 2:52  PM
>
>
> Hi all,
>
> I've just joined up and wanted to say hello.? I'm  a new contra caller but
> longtime English caller from Sebastopol, CA, about  an hour's drive north
> of
> San Francisco.? I saw a few familiar names as I  was cruising through some
> of
> the archives, but look forward to getting more  familiar with the cast of
> characters here as time goes on.
>
> Kalia  Kliban
> ___
> Callers mailing  list
> call...@sharedweight.net
> http://www.sharedweight.net/mailman/listinfo/callers
>
> Kalia,
> Welcome  

[Callers] Triplets

[Paul Wilde]

Hey all,

Anyone have some interesting easy to intermediate triplets they'd be
willing to share?

I've got Ted's Triplets #3,  #4,  #6,   Linda Leslie's  Corner Triplet,
 and   David Smuckler's  David's Triplet #5.


Thanks,
Paul W.
Prov. RI

Re: [Callers] New choreo list / traffic volume

[Paul Wilde]

I totally agree w/ Chrissy, John, & Hilton,

Please delete everything that has already been posted which is not
absolutely essential to your new post.

Thank you everyone,
Paul

Re: [Callers] mentorship

[Paul Wilde]

Lynne,

I have not had a formal mentor, as such, but owe a great deal of gratitude
to this list, and especially to Tony Parkes & Dan Pearl for their great
warmth and willingness to share.  Both have taken time to answer questions
and/or sit and chat on the sidelines of a dance talking w/ me about callers
issues & techniques.  Humility, a willingness to listen closely, and
knowing how to phrase the right questions for your situation are all key.

Pinewoods type caller workshops are also an excellent way to get some
intense practice and mentoring (3 hrs. a day for 5-6 days).  Spent a wk.
taking Kathy Anderson's Square Dance Callers Workshop.  Very informative
and helpful in general, but unfortunately I only get to call about a dozen
or so squares in a year.  But there are probably lots of these sorts of
workshops at camps around the country, covering a variety of genres.
 Gathering a list of these would be beneficial.

A format I especially appreciate is the RPDLW (Ralph Page Dance Legacy
Weekend) callers open mic, where the two staff callers for the weekend tag
team for 90 min. each taking on callers 1,3,5 or 2,4,6 etc. for 90 min.
taking notes and debriefing the mentoree as they finish.  I found this
incredibly helpful, and can still recall nearly all that was said to me on
both occasions where I was lucky enough to get on the roster (thank you
Lynne & Tony).  Unfortunately, there are far more applicants than slots, so
it would be nice to see more of this going on in other places.

I've only been calling full scale for 3 yrs. but am also racking up 45-50
gigs a yr.  Approx. 15 of these are community dances where new people are
encouraged to practice calling.  It's a monthly Jammers dance, w/ a large
totally acoustic band (12-15 players) and contra/ECD/Int dances.  It is how
I got my start, and as programmer for the series, have done my best to
encourage others to try their hand and offer whatever help they feel they
need individually.  This is a ftf on the ground mentoring situation, and
not the long distance plan you are suggesting, but I felt it worthwhile to
mention.  It is a very non-threatening environment, w/ someone w/
experience standing w/ you (if that's what you want) and generally helping
out as each feels the need.  Debriefing is good, but sometimes hard for
certain people to hear.

There's still soo much to learn, but the joy is in the journey.

Thanks so much to everyone on this list, and for it's creation and
maintenance.

warmest regards,
Paul

[Callers] April 7 Gig in RI: Caller Found

[Paul Wilde]

Hey all,

Thanks for the rapid responses and interest.  This list rocks.  What a
great community.

warmest regards,
Paul

[Callers] April 7 Sweet Gig Alert in RI: TIme Sensitive

[Paul Wilde]

Hey Everyone,

I've had a request to do a 90 minute ONS in W. Greenwich RI on Sat. April
7.  I would LOVE to do this gig, but I'm already booked.

Basics are: approx. 25 beginning dancers, 40-60 y.o.  Start time
approximately 6 PM (TBD soon)  *MUST* bring own recorded music.It may
be a schlep, but it's a short program in a nice hall and gorgeous setting.

Please reply asap for contact info and further details.  I only learned
about it this wk. and they are hoping to post it to their membership this
coming Mon.

Site is 40 min. from Providence & just under 40 min. from Mystic, CT.

warmest regards,
Paul

Re: [Callers] Family dances

[Paul Wilde]

Chris,

I highly recommend the Suites of May.  It's a 3 part dance, but as long as
you keep the general phrasing matched, no one seems to notice the dance
doesn't always begin on the A-1 of the music.  It is a surprisingly fun and
exciting dance, compared to how it looks on paper.  Keep lines to 6 or 7
couples  or less.  Sometimes I let them run the cast off longer than it
should, but as they get the hang of it, speed up the sequential cast off
calls.  It adds an element of excitement, especially when the men's line is
getting back to starting position and you are calling both lines to cast
off.

Have fun!
Paul

PS   Top cpl that makes arch at bottom has to go down far enough to avoid
cramping at the top of the set.

Re: [Callers] ricochet or push-back hey - Tapsalteerie

[Paul Wilde]

Tina,

This doesn't look like a Becket dance, but rather simply improper, based on
what I'm reading.  Seems for this to work, your partner has to start across
the set from you.

warmest regards,
Paul


>
> Carlson TapsalteerieBecket contra, improper
> Author unknown.
>
>
> A1  (8)LL F
>   (8)Gents Al-R  1½, pass P by L-Sh
>
> A2  (16)  Tapsalteerie Hey:
>Ladies cross  ½ hey, Gents push back
>Gents cross ½ hey, Ladies push back
>
> B1  (16)   P – B
>
> B2   (8)Ladies Al-R  1½
>(8)N – Sw
>


I'm also curious as to how other's might walk this through.  Do the dancers
starting the hey each time have to make a wide loop while their partners are
"pushing back"?

Re: [Callers] waltz mixers?

[Paul Wilde]

Chrissy,

What a sweet question.  Thanks.

My favorite?  The Wood Duck by Fried de Metz Herman.  Even the
contracentrics may cave into this ECD.

Done w/ proper spacing, it is a thing of total beauty, to watch and to
dance.  It's easy to remember from a caller's view.  It has a quality of
very powerful unity w/in the group.  I love these dances.  They have a great
inclusive feel.
Anyone have other dances that do this for them?

Would love to hear.
Paul

The Wood Duck (Words & Music by Fried de Metz Herman)

Large Circle, Men step into center 2 steps and stand facing directly in
front of partner:

A-1  P  R Shd. Gypsy (all 1X)
   L Diag Corner, L Hand Turn (English hold) 8b.

A-2  P L Shd. Gypsy
   R Diag C, R Hand Turn8b.

B-1  Ps Join 2 hands (starting places)
   Slide 2 steps CCW (gent's L, Lady's R)  2b.
   Lady Under Gents Raised L Hand  2b.
   All Hands Joined (Cirlce) backs to Ctr
   All Balance Out & Back2b.
   Gent (ly) pull RH Lady into a waltz position   2b.

B-2  All Waltz w/ New P,  8b.
   (trying to keep circle to get back into A-1 gracefully, YIKES!
   Suggest waltzing a little out towards the walls, then back in)

[Callers] Jeff's Gypsy

[Paul Wilde]

Hey everyone,

Here is a dance I'd like to share with the hive.  Hope you enjoy it.

This dance is dedicated to the memory of Jeff Ratch, a great friend, dancer,
and human being.  He brought out the best of us in so many ways.



Jeff's Gypsy   Duple Improper
  by Paul Wilde

A-1   1's Gypsy & Swing
A-2   1's in the center in a line of four down the hall,  (just 1's drop
hands)  (4 b.)
 2's hand cast 1's to change places  (1's  forward, 2's backing up).
 (4 b.)
 Return & fold the line into a circle (1's facing down).
   (8 b.)

B-1   Circle L 1x
 Pass Neighbor 1 by the R (1's down, 2's up) Gypsy L w/ next
Neighbor (N-2)
B-2   Return to Gypsy Neighbor 1 by the R, meltdown into a Swing

Dancers:  The gypsies are our connection in this dance.  Gypsy for all
you're worth.

Notes:  At the ends, don't cross over, but face your P as you would N-1 and
pass by the R to gypsy N-2 by the L.  Return to your P (still acting as
N-1), gypsy R, swing, and end facing back into line crossed over.  At the
top of the set, this allows you to do a 2nd gypsy & swing w/ your P, now
that you are the new 1's.

Keith Murphy's tune, "On the Danforth" seems to fit it ever so nicely.  Any
suggestions of other tunes that go well with it would be greatly
appreciated.   Ed. note suggests smooth jigs or reels at an easy tempo.
 (Thank you Lisa.)

It is a relaxed and somewhat fluid dance (I hope) that begs an easy tempo.
 It might work for a bit of a breather in a hot hall.  As a friend pointed
out, there's no physical connection during the gypsies, so a relaxed pace
keeps people from sliding around.

much love,
Paul Wilde

PS  I think the dance is gender free as called above.  Comments welcome.

Re: [Callers] Dance length

[Paul Wilde]

Meg,

My personal opinion is that 7 couples is a good minimum number for a contra
line.  This gives 3 sets of hands 4 dancing all the time.  6 couples will
leave you with 2 hands 4 and 2 couples out every other progression.

Good luck,
Paul Wilde