Experiencing the Art of Pas de Deux by Jennifer Carlynn Kronenberg & Carlos Miguel Guerra

Author:Jennifer Carlynn Kronenberg & Carlos Miguel Guerra
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: University Press of Florida
Published: 2016-12-09T16:00:00+00:00

1 Anna Kisselgoff, “Ballet: Gelsey Kirkland Is Back; Baryshnikov Restages Giselle,” New York Times, May 1, 1981.

10

Etiquette Check List

Reviewing basic partnering protocols

There exist certain social graces in pas de deux, or rather an unspoken partnering “code,” that dancers usually expect from their partners and to which they hope their partners will adhere. Unfortunately we have found that some dancers carelessly ignore even the most basic civilities, regarding them as dispensable formalities. While politeness and courtesy are not mandatory, common sense indicates that the more consideration partners show one another, the more pleasant their experience dancing together will be. The guidelines we elect to point out here contain etiquettes that can be easily adapted to one’s daily routine and readily applied in just about every circumstance. These etiquettes have had a repeatedly positive impact on our safety and comfort and have made our partnering experiences all the more enjoyable.

Perfumes and colognes should be used conservatively, as they can potentially cause respiratory discomfort, headaches, and even allergy attacks. Whether dancing alone, with a partner, or in a group, a light spritz will usually suffice. Elevated body temperatures and perspiration will typically intensify a fragrance’s potency anyway.

Both males and females should invest in an effective underarm deodorant. Dancing is a sweaty business and pungent personal aromas abound. Even the most unpleasant odor can be nipped in the bud, however, long before it becomes unbearable.1 Practicing good hygiene also calls for wearing fresh, clean rehearsal garments. Dancers should include an extra set—or two—of practice clothes in their bags and make a conscious effort to change soggy leotards and T-shirts as often as possible.

In the interest of safety, dancers must refrain from wearing bulky jewelry. Adornments should be kept small and inconspicuous. A simple wedding band–style ring will not typically cause any problems, but long necklaces, chains, dangling charms, bracelets, anklets, watches, large rings, and even certain earrings can get caught in fingers, hair, and clothing, causing accidents. They can easily inflict bruises, scratches, and other injuries. If a role requires that a dancer or a dancer’s costume be embellished with jewelry, the dancer should wear the costume (or its accessories) for as many rehearsals as possible so that his or her partner may adjust to any garment-related challenges.

To avoid embarrassing their partners, polite dancers will conscientiously refrain from addressing any awkward (and usually unforeseen) human “disgraces” that may occur during partnering. Slips of the hand and irrepressible biological functions (which typically produce embarrassing noises and/or smells) do happen and are just some of the realities dancers have to accept. No good will ever come of shaming or ridiculing one’s partner. Exhibiting professionalism and maturity as a team includes accepting such incidents, getting used to them, laughing together about them, and, most importantly, getting over them.

Dancers should opt to rehearse in clothing most similar to the costume in which they will perform. Bulky attire may hinder movement and prove bothersome. In particular, if one will be required to sport pants, a long skirt, or a

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