Basics, Basics, Basics!

Why bother spending time on detailed, basic training in partner dancing? I'm here to tell you why.

If you build a house, having a solid foundation is the first priority. After this, what ever you put on top will withstand the movement created by the elements. The basics of partner dancing need the same consideration: Your foundation is a solid understanding of the principals behind movement and the music.

This detailed work takes time, repetition, and desire.

In attending competition events as a spectator or as a licensed adjudicator, I see much emphasis today, from many, on performance. Your dancing will always look good to friends and family! However, if you are putting yourself out there for evaluation, performance without a foundation will limit your success and impact the development of your skills.

You should focus on having good quality of movement first. Your performance will follow.

-Jane Edgett

Shirley Johnson, Jane Edgett, Vikki Regan, and Tatiana Vovkokhat. Adjudicators at the 2023 Can-Am Dancesport Gala.