Quote:
Originally posted by ChrisA
Not only that, but on a busy dance floor, you're expected to know where everyone else around you is, without looking at them...
A month or two ago on a heaving floor and muppets all around, I was having to look around quite a bit, so that I could use the spaces...
... and she accused me of eyeing up the talent 
I explained... but I wasn't convinced she believed me
Chris |
I would say that in modern jive eye contact is not expected of beginners and is not specifically encouraged - which if so is a pity. I agree that the best course of action is to use a repertoire of simple beginners moves, clearly executed and in time to the music. Simple moves well led must be better than showly or difficult moves badly led. You can easily develop eye contact at the very start of the dance. A good time to look away is when you need to check the space on the floor from a safety angle. As you become more confident with the moves you will find that establishing a connection with your partner comes more easily. And believe me, it's worth it for the pleasure of good eye contact with your partner, though I accept that for relative beginners that may be a hard point to put across.
