Tips on Calling - 1998

Preparation

Go through the figures of the dance in your mind, before you begin.

Remind yourself how the dance will begin and end

 

Starting the Dance

Inform the musicians which dance you are doing

Remind the dancers of their firstmovement (eg Backsteps) and the first figure (eg Rounds)

Tell the musicians to start playing when all dancers are ready

In dances with "once to youreslf", inform the dancers a few beats in advance that you are about to begin. This can be either a visual signal (eg a raised arm) or a verbal message ("this time"). Whichever method is used, look down the set so that you can see that your message has been received.

 

During the Dance

With an experienced set, only the minimum calling is necessary, i.e. names of figures. Do this during the previous movement so that there is time for brain penetration! Speak clearly and with adequate volume to be heard by all dancers and musicians, looking towards the dancers as you speak.

Additional calling may be necessary, depending on the experience of the dancers of that particular dance. This can range from odd extra comments (eg "galley left" or "rounds - 2 places only") to a full running commentary (eg "1, 2, 3 hop; 1, 2 ,3 hop; single; single; feet together and jump")

 

Ending the dance

Towards the end of the final movement, give clear instruction (eg "all up with capers")

Hold final position until YOU decide to lead off.

Richard Stapledon