Interesting article that is a good engaging read. Like the author, I used to be terribly disappointed at Salsa Congresses stalking some performer I just saw on stage for a social dance later that night only to discover that their performance on stage doesnt translate well for social dancing for a variety of technical reason- Overly dramatic style that interfered with a proper lead, Giant Steps like we are walking on the moon, Tricks (the HORROR), the complete disconnect of one Dancing AT you and Not WITH You, and or daredevil turnpatterns at breakneck speed because there is a camera or crowd nearby watching or they have incorrectly assumed you could follow them, etc. But over the years, I find that most PROFESSIONAL Performers or Seasoned Performers usually can DEFINITELY Social Dance Expertly. In fact, they probably social dance with the regulars far below THEIR ability to enjoy the music to accommodate your dance proficiency. They correctly access your level within the first minute of the dance and they adjust accordingly. They dont try to overwhelm you too much but just enough so that it isnt boring for them and so you dont embarrass them by flailing about unnecessarily. The Connection part may still be an issue with some of the Pro Performers but usually not the technical aspects. But the Performers who I find are hit or miss tend to be those hailing from Student Groups or the vaguely titled Semi-Pro groups. From those performers, what you get on stage- smoothness, expert lead/follow, styling within the frame of the dance- may NOT what you get in a social dance. This nebulous category of performers are a different bag and the social dancing proficiency is all over the board as a result.
Posted on: Tue, 30 Dec 2014 03:03:53 +0000