Young At Heart
07.16.07

I was having a discussion with some dancers regarding places to dance and the types of dance crowds we find in various venues. During this discussion, one of the participants related how she did not want to go to one venue because there were too many young people and she did not want to be subjected to their showing off.
 
Now, beside the fact that I've been to the location under discussion and the crowd is not any younger than other venues we've all been to, why should this deter a dancer from coming out?
 
When I started to dance, I was involved in the Lindy crowd and spent many evenings at Manray's, at that time a local hotbed for that style dancing. The speed was furious and as one of the older crowd, I would dance a song, then spend the next couple tunes re-acquainting myself to the concept of breathing normally. During those respites, I would watch some of the best in this area amaze me with ideas and moves. That time spent studying these performances became known as "Stealing Moves" time.
 
Fast forward to the present and my current recovery from my injuries. During my more frequent times spent sitting and recovering, I am back to "Stealing Moves!" Watching others inspired by the music and challenged by their partners, it can be an unending resource of ideas and inspiration for your dance. The only reason I could fathom someone not wanting to see this is intimidation on their part. Since this dancer very rarely involves herself in lessons or events, she is stuck in amber and losing her touch with the current version of this dance.
 
Don't let this happen to you! When you are on the floor, be aware of those around you and participate in the dance jungle safely. When you are on the sidelines, take a gander and appreciate the others on the floor. You just may pick up an idea or two. Even from the most novice of dancers, you may also catch a bit of the enthusiasm and fun that they are gaining in dancing. This is more than a worthwhile profit in any activity. Pass that enthusiasm on to others when you are back on the floor. We will be a stronger community from this positive reinforcement and feedback echoing through all of us!