Partner or group dances look more interesting than solo ones. Synchrony often impresses us more than movements or images. But have you thought about what dancers go through?
Partner or group dances look more interesting than solo ones. You must agree that sometimes synchrony impresses us far more than the movements or the dancers' images themselves.
But have you ever thought about what performers go through when rehearsing partner dances? Have you considered how much time they spend with their partner, honing their craft?
In partner dances, the most important thing is choosing the right partner. Even if you have all the moves down perfectly, your performance will entirely depend on your partner. Sometimes there are work-related spats that ruin the mood and kill the desire to keep rehearsing, so you need to clearly determine what kind of partner suits you.
Partner selection usually starts with physical appearance. It's customary for the man to be at least 5-10 cm taller than the woman. It can't be said with certainty that if the woman is taller, the couple is doomed to fail. They'll just need more time to refine their dance technique. And considering that Locking often involves abrupt movements and stops, perfecting synchrony will take even longer.
Once you've made a choice based on external parameters, it's time to evaluate the partner's inner qualities. You must understand that you'll be spending a significant amount of time with this person—enough to bore each other.
So it's best to decide right away what type of personality you work best with. You likely have certain requirements—for example, whether the person should take the initiative or delegate responsibility to you, whether they should be calm or moderately emotional.
Moreover, it's great if you and your partner can exchange experience. Learning will be easier and faster if you can trust your partner and follow their recommendations. When both partners realize they have some gaps in technique, it's easier to point out each other's mistakes and take criticism calmly. This will motivate both of you.
It's also worth paying attention to your potential partner's attitude toward dancing. For some, it's just a hobby or a way to pass the time; for others, it's a lifelong dream. Partners will come to rehearsals with amazing energy, knowing they share a common goal.
Quite often, you might rush to find the perfect partner right away, dismissing any alternative. This is the most common mistake, which over time will lead to never finding the ideal partner, getting discouraged, and losing interest altogether.
Since the main goal of Locking is to lift the spirits of those around you, it's clear that your partner should have an interest in the dance, kindness, and optimism. Only such people can entertain and give warm energy to the audience.
Choosing the right partner is already 50% of success. Of course, that doesn't mean if your partner is perfect at Locking, your performance will be a sensation. Remember that the audience judges your joint efforts; they perceive you and your partner as a single unit.
When a new pair forms in dance, they often have conflicts in the early stages—they may step on each other's feet or be too self-focused. That's nothing to worry about; every couple goes through it. You just need some time to get to know each other better and adjust in certain aspects. Sometimes you need to work harder and talk more with your partner about what's bothering you or when you feel uncomfortable.
Believe in yourself, and you'll definitely succeed!
The GoDance team crafts articles about dance, technique and inspiring stories from dancers.
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