| The semi-circle started in the late 80's, as a means to get Beginners off to a good start.
You are right, the semi-circle is not absolutely necessary, but if I remember my early training days, (James Cronin was doing the training, and then Janie) it was found that the pushing your partner back could easily be mis-understood, resulting in ackward (if not painful) starts.
The semi-circle also helps (in theory) in taking a reasonably small step back, and not pushing your partner miles away.
It looks (arguably) more stylish when you start (better than most alternative) and focuses the mind of Beginners.
Typically, though after a while, most dancers will reduce the size of the semi-circle and eventually do without altogether.
One of the things I teach at Style workshops is a variety of starting alternatives, to suit your mood / partner and of course the music.
Franck. |