Suppose you register for a dance course for couples alone, whereby, from the start, the pass-through system is used in which men or women move a place so that everyone dances with each other.
You think that’s ideal, because now you don’t have to look for your own dance partner. Very easy and fun.
When moving on, however, you will be faced with a “blind” or “visually impaired”. You think ah ok, should be possible, until you actually start dancing.
Here are some tips for sighted dancers who dance with a blind or partially sighted dancer in a regular class with a pass-through system :
- Tip 1: Looking in the eye doesn’t work to connect, so keep it simple by just saying your name.
- Tip 2: when you are standing right in front of the dancer, keep an eye on the hands as much as possible. If the visually impaired doesn’t start to take your hands, just make the first connection yourself.
- Tip 3: Always keep in mind that they cannot see your hands, so it is very important that you look for both of you and that you keep an eye on the hand connection at all times. That’s a tip that applies to everyone. How often should leaders grab the hands or even arms of the followers. A very annoying thing. So, train yourself to do that from the start.
- Tip 4: make a space estimate yourself. What do I mean by that? Make sure you are not too far, but also not too close to the blind or partially sighted. This will allow you to quickly participate in the moves.
- Tip 5: If you want to make something clear, say so. Nodding your head, turning to, looking at all doesn’t work. Just say it.
- Tip 6: don’t be the big help, but make sure you create a safety for yourself and your dance partner. Therefore, do not dance too close to objects, equipment, walls or other obstacles. That also applies to the distance between you and the other dance couples.
- Tip 7: the blind or partially sighted will always rely on his hearing, so take a place in the hall that is pleasant to hear for both you and your dance partner. Too close to the music boxes can hinder your connection, too far will make it difficult to hear what you need to catch in the dance class.
- Tip 8: is in line with the tips for the visually impaired and blind: couple dance or partner work is, by the way, about the connection with that other person. It is no longer about an “I” event but a “we” event and in these circumstances, everyone is putting their best foot forward.
- Tip 9: therefore, adopt an open attitude and welcome every new dance experience. It will allow you to analyze and discover the figures in a different way.
- Tip 10: above all, HAVE Fun! Go by your own rhythm and feeling. Amazingly, “blind” and “visually impaired” very often adapt to the rhythm you indicate yourself. Don’t be ashamed, do your own thing, the connection will follow.
Voila, these are 10 easily applicable tips for the general lessons.
However, if you want to learn more about dancing with the visually impaired and blind, I’ll give you the most important tip: just like with wine, practice, practice and practice.
Before you know it, you will be a true sommelier on the dance floor!