I'd rather dance with men who don't think they're all that. If I screw up, then I don't feel as bad, as they do it, too. Of course, if they're "inferior" for lack of better phrasing and really think they're a lot better than they are, that's a bit of a rub, but really- it's just three minutes... I can smile for that long. Recently, though, I have to smugly admit to having been spoiled. I have my regular ncap (non-competing amateur partner) AND an ingenue as well. Life is good.

We all can smile for the length of the dance, but our class format is review at the start and if the person who is your partner still belongs in a lower class because they still need to review a waltz box, and this class is a higher level and you are reviewing other steps--and you as a beginner to that level still need to review successfully (with a partner) to be up to that days class--then it matters greatly if your partner is at the same level as you are or still learning to turn the basic box.

I love doing basics classes because each time I polish my handling of the basic stuff a bit more, and I expect my partners to not know anything. In a beginning basics class I never mind at all that the guy needs to review the straight box before reviewing the turning box--it is a BASIC class.

My only complaint is when that same guy is in the upper class and not ready for it--and I get stuck reviewing the box when I expected to be able to review whatever new step I learned the lesson before with a partner. There are limits to how much you can learn practicing by yourself at home.

I think that is a legitimate complaint. I only ask that my partner in a level II class be reviewing at that level--and not still learning to turn a box.

This semester I plan for two basic beginner classes, and my third level II, I may finally be ready to think about a level III class after about four trips through what our local teacher has as level II.

It sounds as though you're taking "open" group classes in which students decide for themselves what level to take and just show up for the class - and yes, that can lead some disparity in expectations/skill levels.

A possible solution: can you get together with some other students who you believe are at your level and arrange for your own group class, or semi-private class? It might not be possible to arrange that in all studios, but it's worth a question.

I know that everyone is tired of reading my unrelenting gripes about pro/am. However, no one has ever been able to dispute any of my observations and, well, it's just fun examining all of the silliness and stupidity involved in this activity.

The inflated egos of many first year dancers do not come from their own experiences but by being told repeatedly by professionals trying to get into their wallets thay they are very good dancers with lots of talent who could be "the best amateur dancer in this city."

Almost all of the ballroom studios in the Atlanta area try to push newbies into pro/am because these folks don't know any better. I have witnessed this scenario many, many times and have been the subject of it myself.

Newcomers should start their dance education in classes and stay there until they find partners with whom to share private lessons.



jj

I think there are plenty of us who dispute your observations. There are plenty of us who are quite satisfied with our progress with our professional partners. You have a very narrow view on this subject.

I love this statement.



I have no issues with this attitude as long as you understand that your progress does not include actually learning to dance. Being schlepped around the floor by a pro teaches you nothing.

If you want to call yourself a Ballroom or Latin dancer then get a real partner.

Of course, it's your money to throw away. There are no laws against foolishness.



jj

We'll see plenty of what JJ's talking about at STARZ this weekend. I agree with him.

Group classes of the community college, once-weekly night-time variety aren't for the people who want to take this further than meeting, hooking up (or trying to) and going for hot wings and a bloody mary later (although even us *sniff* Seasoned Three-Year-Veterans of dance *snicker* also engage in said spicy activities). They introduce things, go over it until it can be memorized and performed by rote, and any other questions on technique/styling/lead/follow, variation, etc. should be taken to private lessons.

People need a clear understanding of what appetizers versus entrees are in dancing. Sure, you can fill up on appetizers, but you'll get burned out on them if that's all you have. Once in awhile, don't be so cheap and buy the whole dinner.

Also, for Kaiara:

If your class format is so, then, it's not your partner's fault so much (although I hold them partially responsible for not, you know, studying up on the expectations) but the person directing the class for not saying "You are the weakest link." Some people are "professional students", and you won't be able to shake them from ANYTHING "open"- regardless of what challenging caveat is put on the flyer.

Hi DivaGinger,
What is STARZ? Is is something that I can read about? Where do I find out about it? I'm interested in how it explains your appetizer/entree analogy as it pertains to dancing.

Clary,

Though I can't be sure I imagine that STARZ is probably a comp. or an exhibition for pro/am dancers.

I think that DivaGinger's analogy was seperate from the comment about STARZ. I don't think she is refering to something else that can be referenced. Not being DivaGinger I can't swear to being right, but I'm pretty sure that was what she meant.

She and many others here are right of course that many of the pro/am people really do just get schleeped around the floor and feel glorious being inane arm candy. If that makes them happy than by all means... be happy, dance, and pay your social partner (your pro) to be patient and attentive to your needs. It isn't the relationship that all pro/am's share but way to many fit into the category.

The only real problem with the current system is that it makes it harder for pro/am dancers who really are working on their craft to be viewed as legitimate within the wider circle of ballroom dancing.

Thanks for the explanation about STARZ.
By the way, I happen to agree that there are very talented pro-am students out there who are not treated as legitimate dancers. Alas, I'm one of those pro-ammers who is quite happy to be schlepped around by my pros. However, I have to disagree with your statement about arm candy - I'm certainly not attractive enough to be arm candy!