I found myself walking up a flight of stairs into a gymnasium that was rather empty excluding a few people. We got there early so we could learn some of the basic steps and I knew I had no clue what I was doing. As the night progressed and I danced with several more experienced dancers it became more clear. I felt dizzy from the dancing and silly from the missteps which all led to some strange unexplainable laughter I had. Before I knew it I was enjoying myself and actually getting some of the steps. In a mainstream setting dancing would be competitive and very presentational but at the contra dance it was participational, everyone of all ages and skill sets were welcome. There was not a spot light on any one person, it was a democratic environment. Participatory music isn't about who is better but more so how many people join in. these environments are full of diversity and acceptance of all different kinds of people. By that I mean race, age, gender and class. It seems that being able to pay isn't the important thing more important is the fact that people come and enjoy themselves and keep the tradition alive.They can also be a learning experience with out being intimidating to others less skilled.
Though I had a great time and really enjoyed myself I think I will be spending my Wednesday night differently. It was nice but I don't see myself returning in the future, it was just a different kind of environment than what I am used to. It was a nice change of pace and I will always remember my experience there.
No comments:
Post a Comment