How do you judge a social dancer to be excellent? If a dancer is not a performer, the only worthy judgment can be from the dancer's partners. If in addition, the dancer is wonderful to watch, you then have what I call an extraordinary dancer. My friend Natasha is one of that rare breed. Her love of dance is expressed in Argentine tango.Why is it so great to dance with her? ...and how can others follow in her footsteps?
1. As a follower she is so synchronized with her partner that it seems that she knows the leader's next move before it is lead.
2. As a dancer who is totally tuned into the music it helps her to know the lead from the composer of the music. If the leader is paying close attention to musical phrases, then she will be in the same space. Perhaps that is why she has the previously listed trait.
3. Natasha studied ballet in Russia in her childhood. That certainly contributes to how she appears to onlookers.
4. In addition to the form and grace garnered from the ballet training, the very important aspect of maintaining your own balance is ever present in Natasha's movements. She can be dipped nearly to the floor and the leader will barely feel her weight.
5. The amount of creativity that is brought to the party is over the top. All aspects of the music and her partner's lead are always specifically interpreted at each moment. The next phrase will dictate an entirely different delivery of mood, timing, and action.
6. This one takes her into the tango stratosphere.... Natasha has avidly studied the leader's part. She knows first-hand exactly what not to do as a follower. When you understand the role of both partners it is easy to be in touch with the needs of your partner.
7. As if all of that was not enough, add one more feature that enhances the viewing of her dance ...her creative dance outfits. Natasha is very easy to spot at a milonga. The combinations of fabrics, dresses, silken pants, and beautiful accessories are most outstanding. An inquiry into where she buys her clothing is something I have witnessed many times. When asked the question, Natasha smiles and respectfully explains that most of her garments are put together from many parts and some are hand made. The outfits simply do not exist off the rack anywhere.
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