Well, it finally happened...

**Arlen** · 15th January 09, 09:38 AM

Thank you very much!

I've been working hard enough that I pretty much have the dances down, so from this point on I am going to focus on things like posture, footwork and phrasing.
Here's hoping I'm good enough that I get picked for other events!

Greg, I will try to get a video of it for you either at the next practice on Monday or at the event itself.

Jamie, I very much hope you get into your dem team. I think you've certainly worked hard enough!

**vmac3205** · 15th January 09, 10:12 AM

We have a demo team performance in two weeks. I hope the old addage of poor dress rehearsal, good performance works because we were awful last night. On the other hand, it's a nursing home, and they just want to be entertained. We could go there and smile for an hour and they'd be happy.

**piperdbh** · 15th January 09, 10:16 AM

Originally Posted by vmac3205

I hope the old addage of poor dress rehearsal, good performance works because we were awful last night.

My students use that line, too, and sometimes set out to cause a bad rehearsal. But, somehow they usually manage to put on a good concert, regardless of how rehearsal went that day.

**Nighthawk** · 15th January 09, 10:31 AM

Congrats!! I'm getting ready to test for my green belt, so I understand the nerves. Like me- you'll do great.

**cessna152towser** · 15th January 09, 10:39 AM

Congratulations, Arlen.
Enjoy!

**SFCRick** · 15th January 09, 11:30 AM

Congrats, just enjoy yourself

**meinfs** · 15th January 09, 01:02 PM

Congratulations Arlen. That's great news.

**MartinGrenoble** · 15th January 09, 02:29 PM

Originally Posted by vmac3205

... We could go there and smile for an hour and they'd be happy.

Dance AND smile; they'll be doubly happy.

For me, the only important thing in demo-ing, is for people to see that you are enjoying yourself. There isnothing more boring than the foot-perfect dour-faced RSCDS team proving they are the best.

On the other hand, have a laugh while you are performing, and people will think "I'd like to do that."

Martin

**vmac3205** · 15th January 09, 03:20 PM

Originally Posted by MartinGrenoble

Dance AND smile; they'll be doubly happy.

For me, the only important thing in demo-ing, is for people to see that you are enjoying yourself. There isnothing more boring than the foot-perfect dour-faced RSCDS team proving they are the best.

On the other hand, have a laugh while you are performing, and people will think "I'd like to do that."

Martin

I agree. Martin.
A great smile always wins the day. If it is too sterile, people will be intimidated. On the other hand, we need to respect the dance form and do our best.

**Arlen** · 16th January 09, 11:15 AM

Thanks for all the great compliments. Things are going well so far. I always have fun when I'm dancing now that I've got more confidence, so I don't think showing that will be a problem.
Now I just need to decide what waistcoat I'm wearing!