Notes | Dances | Notation | Choreography
This is my page of dances, snapshot from 2011.
The number of counts used by each move is noted in parentheses. These are not necessarily rigid as the figures can trade off, especially within a 16 count phrase. For example with the common phrase circle left 3/4 (8), partners swing (8), the dancers will often use just 6 or 7 counts for the circle.
Ladies chains and right and left throughs end with a courtesy turn. This is implied and not noted.
The term star, as used here, covers both the wrist hold star and the hands across star (also called just "hands across"). If the type of star is important then it is specified. Otherwise either type works well and I suggest using whatever is traditional for the dancers.
For circles and stars, one time around is implied and not noted. Anything else is noted. Allemande distances are always noted since allemande once around is unusual.
I prefer right and left throughs without hands, i.e. pass through to a courtesy turn. This leaves both hands free for the courtesy turn or substitute flourish.
I use the phrase "men roll away with a half sashay" to refer to the common roll away with a half sashay with roles reversed, i.e. men roll and ladies half sashay.
I use the phrase "reverse improper" for the contra formation with the twos crossed (from proper) instead of the ones.
These are the rules that I follow when writing a dance. The first rules are rigid - I allow no exceptions unless the theme of the dance requires it.
These next rules are more loosely followed.
And these are some artistic rules.
Amy's Harmonium Cary Ravitz 10-99
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Men allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Ladies chain across (8).
- Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down to a new couple (8).
B2 - Ladies allemande left 1 while men orbit 1/2 clockwise (6).
- Partners swing (10).
Andes Anomaly Cary Ravitz 9-97
Becket, counter-clockwise, double progression
Complex
A1 - People in the line to the caller's right are ones.
- Long lines go forward and back and just the ones roll away with a
half sashay (8).
- Hands across star right 7/8 (3+1/2 places) so that a man and
woman from each set of four are in the middle (8).
A2 - Keep hands in the star and take hands in a long wavy line in the
middle.
- People on the sides balance in and out while people in the middle
balance to a new neighbor and away (4).
- Slide past the person that you balanced to with a Rory O'More
spin (4).
- Hands across star left 3/4 with the handy group of four (8).
B1 - Keep hands in the star and take hands in a long wavy line in the
middle.
- People on the sides balance in and out while people in the middle
balance to a new neighbor and away (4).
- Slide past the person that you balanced to (4).
- Hands across star right 7/8 with the handy group of four, ending
on the side with your partner (8).
B2 - Partners gypsy and swing (16).
If there is no one to slide with in A2 or B1, turn to face the other
direction and wait for the next star.
No one is ever out at the top. For odd length lines, at the bottom,
men and women reenter the dance separately.
The roll away in A1 is not necessary for the dance to work, but it
makes the wavy lines man/woman.
Around the Sound Cary Ravitz 8-09
Becket
A1 - Long lines go forward, neighbors gypsy 1/2, and men take
neighbors back to the side (opposite the men's home side)
(3+2+3).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Long lines go forward, partners gypsy 1/2, and long lines go back
(3+2+3).
- Star right 3/4 (8).
B2 - Men look for the next man to allemande left 1 while ladies walk
to meet your partner (4).
- Partners swing (12).
B1/B2 can also be danced as B1 - pass through across (4) / star right
3/4 (8) / men look for the next man ... (4) / B2 - partner swing (16).
Autumn Air Cary Ravitz 8-09 Becket A1 - Ladies chain across (8). - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8). A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). B1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8). - Partner swing (8). B2 - Circle left 3/4 (7). - Pass through up and down (2). - With a new couple circle RIGHT 3/4 (7).
Bernadance (for Bernadene) Cary Ravitz 10-96 Becket, double progression A1 - Circle left 3/4 (6). - Neighbors swing (10). A2 - Star left (8). - Look away from the star for a new neighbor to swing (8). B1 - Star left (8). - Look away from the star for a new neighbor. - Ladies gypsy 1+1/2 (8). B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Between the Lines Cary Ravitz 2-08
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Long lines go forward (4).
- Ones swing in the middle and end facing down while twos back up
and face up (12).
B1 - New neighbors do-si-do (8).
- Circle left (8).
B2 - Partners do-si-do (across the set) (8).
- Twos swing in the middle and end facing up, ones face down (8).
Alternate B1/B2
B1 - With new neighbors ones split the twos to start a mirror do-si-do
(one men and two ladies see-saw, two men and one ladies do-si-do)
(8).
- Twos swing and end facing up (8).
B2 - Circle left (8).
- Neighbors do-si-do (8).
In both versions, the twos may cut short the do-si-do before the swing
by a couple of counts to start the swing early.
Bev's Becket Cary Ravitz 7-05, 4-10
Becket
A1 - On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4).
- Ladies chain across (8).
A2 - Ladies pass right to start a hey (16).
B1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Alternate version
A1 - On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4).
- Ladies chain across (8).
A2 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (8).
- Continue the hey, ladies push off in the middle to trade roles in
the hey, men finish an ordinary hey (8).
B1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B2 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
For the original version, this is an inversion (partner and neighbor
roles are swapped) of Becky's Becket by David Zinkin and/or Butter by
Gene Hubert. The dances are readily medleyed. The opening figure is
borrowed from Hey Man by Paul Balliet.
The alternate version uses push offs in the hey and replaces the circle
left 3/4 with men allemande left 1+1/2. You could also keep the circle
but change the progression to right and left through across and courtesy
turn to the next couple to the right.
Breakup Breakdown Cary Ravitz 12-99
Improper contra
Complex
A1 - Pass through across (4).
- Neighbors balance and swing (12).
A2 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B1 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- With a new couple star left (8).
B2 - Look away from the star for your original neighbor to do-si-do
(8).
- Same neighbors swing (8).
I think that if a dance has a partner and neighbor swing, the partner
swing should come second. Otherwise it feels like a breakup.
Butterflies Cary Ravitz 4-01
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Men allemande left 1/2 (2).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl 1/2 to put the ladies in the middle (6).
- Ladies allemande right 1/2 (2).
- Ladies keep right hands, pick up your neighbor, star promenade
across, and butterfly whirl 1/2 (men go forward, ladies go
backward) to put the men in the middle (6).
B1 - Men allemande left 1/2 (4).
- Partners swing (12).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors do-si-do (8).
A2 might be noted as men lead a flutterwheel by the left, ladies lead
a flutterwheel by the right.
I use two common progressions for partners swing to new neighbors
balance and swing in 16 counts often - circle left 3/4 / pass through
/ do-si-do and right and left through / ladies chain. I consider these
the best of the lot when a simple progression is needed. But they can
be replaced to fit a dance into an evening of dances. For Butterflies
you can change B2 to, for example, long lines forward and back /
ladies chain or ladies chain / star left.
Carla's Contra Cary Ravitz 3-01
Becket
A1 - Take hands in a circle and balance (4).
- Partners roll away with a half sashay (4).
- Circle RIGHT 3/4 (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - With a new neighbor (to the left) men allemande left 3/4 to a
wavy line in the middle but do not take right hands (4).
- Men stay in place while ladies walk forward and take right hands
to make a gypsy star with your partner and new neighbors (4).
- Ladies go forward and men backward to turn the star 3/4 (8).
B2 - Turn alone and neighbor men take right hands and neighbor ladies
take left hands to make new gypsy star.
- Men go forward and ladies backward to turn the star 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Carried Away Cary Ravitz 1-04
Becket, counter-clockwise
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Star left 3/4 (8).
- Look away from the star for a new (old) neighbor to swing (8).
A2 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain to your shadow (8).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and turn alone to face a new neighbor (8).
- New neighbors swing (8)
B2 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
and turn alone to face your partner (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Men and women reenter the dance three times on each end with ladies on
the left, to swing. Ladies also reenter the dance with a left diagonal
chain.
Catch Phrase Cary Ravitz 9-08 Improper contra A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8). - Ones swing in the middle and end facing down (8). A2 - Neighbors swing (16). B1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8). - Partners swing (8). B2 - Right and left through across (8). - Ladies chain across (8). Alternate A1, can be alternated A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8). - Twos swing in the middle and end facing up (8). The swing to swing transition is taken from Ted Sanella's Yankee Reel, but the timing is modified so that the switch is on a 16 count phrase break.
Chicory Cary Ravitz 7-08
Becket
A1 - Men allemande left 1 (6).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl to face in while shifting to the right one
place, to face a new couple (10).
A2 - Ladies allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Ladies pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
The 1/2 hey also works with men pass right to start a 1/2 hey.
Contra Clovers Cary Ravitz 5-95
Becket
Complex
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
A2 - Circle left (8).
- Keep hands held until it's time to break the clover.
- Face your neighbor.
- Men raise your right hand and ladies raise your left hand.
- Ladies turn clockwise 1/2 while sliding to your neighbor's left
to form a two leaf clover (2).
- Turn the clover counter-clockwise 3/4 (6).
B1 - Ladies slide back to back while men turn in place to reverse the
clover (2).
- Turn the clover clockwise 3/4 (6).
- Drop hands to break the clover and men switch to a back hold with
your partner.
- Promenade to the next couple (2).
- Ladies do-si-do (6).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
In the initial two leaf clover all four people are in line across the
set, women on the inside. The one man and two woman are together,
facing up and the two man and one woman are together, facing down.
Men's left hands are behind their neighbor's back and right hands are
across their front. Women's hands are crossed in front. Everyone is
facing counter-clockwise to turn the clover.
Then the clover shifts. Women slide back to back and men turn around
in place counter-clockwise, with no raised hands. This puts partners
together, facing clockwise.
As the clover ends, ones are facing down, twos are facing up. Men's
right arms are behind their partner's back, ready to start a back hold
promenade to the next couple.
The two leaf clover is an old square dance figure that I borrowed for
this dance. I do not know its origin.
Contra Currents Cary Ravitz 4-97 Improper contra A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). A2 - Go down the hall (5). - Turn as a couple (3). - Come back up (5). - Ones cast around the twos (3). B1 - Ones half figure eight around the twos (8). - Ones swing and end facing down (8). B2 - With a new couple circle left (8). - Twos swing and end facing up (8). Use a back hold with neighbors in A2 to make the cast easier and quicker.
Contrablend Cary Ravitz 11-95
Improper contra mixer
Triple progression for women, single progression for men
Complex
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Men's NEW PARTNERS are in their right hand.
- Ladies' NEW PARTNERS are in their left hand.
- Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
B2 - Circle RIGHT 3/4 (with partners) (8).
- Look away from the circle for a new neighbor to gypsy 1+1/2 (8).
- Look for another new neighbor.
You can start this dance in B1 to make it a Becket dance. In this case
you don't get to swing your original partner, but it makes the dance a
little easier.
Be alert on the ends.
Cookies and Cream Cary Ravitz 9-98
Becket
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
A2 - Circle left 1/2 (4).
- Neighbors swing (12).
B1 - Right and left through across (8).
- Next ladies allemande right 1+1/2 while men slide left 1 step
(8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Crosswalk Cary Ravitz 12-11
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey ending in long wavy lines
with men facing out (8).
- Balance (4).
- Men move one place to the RIGHT while turning to face in while
ladies cross the set to face out (4).
B1 - Balance (4).
- Ladies move one place to the RIGHT while turning to face in while
men cross the set to face out (4).
- Balance (4).
- Men move one place to the RIGHT while turning to face in while
ladies cross the set to face out (4).
B2 - Partners gypsy and swing (16).
Daisy Chain Cary Ravitz 10-08
Becket, double progression
Complex
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, MEN chain
by the right hand (8) (men are on the right).
A2 - Star left 3/4 (8).
- On the right diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
B1 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Ladies allemenade right 1+1/2 (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Dance Kentucky Unhinged Cary Ravitz 4-00
Becket, counter-clockwise, double progression
Complex
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
A2 - Star left (8)
- Look away from the star for a new neighbor to do-si-do (8).
B1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Shadows allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
B2 - Look for your partner to balance and swing (16).
Be alert on the ends.
Dance Symmetry Cary Ravitz 1-02
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Right and left through across (8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
A2 - Star left (8).
- Look away from the star for a new neighbor to swing (8).
B1 - Men chain across by the left hand to a mirror courtesy turn (8).
- Star right (8).
B2 - Men turn in and partners gypsy and swing (16).
Inverted version, clockwise
A1 - Men chain across by the left hand to a mirror courtesy turn (8).
- Star right (8).
A2 - Men turn in and neighbors gypsy and swing (16).
B1 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the right diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
B2 - Star left (8).
- Look away from the star for your partner to swing (8).
To switch from one version to the other in a medley without changing
the direction of progression, replace the next right and left through
with a long lines forward and back.
Dancing Spell Cary Ravitz 9-98 Improper contra Easy A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). A2 - Circle left (8). - Star left using a hands across star (8). B1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8). - Partners swing (8). B2 - Right and left through across (8). - Ladies chain across (8).
Dar Trek (for Darlene) Cary Ravitz 5-02 Becket, counter-clockwise Complex Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner. A1 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8). - Look away from your partner for your shadow. - With your shadow and first neighbor star left 3/4 (8). A2 - Look away from the star for a second neighbor to do-si-do (8). - Second neighbors swing (8). B1 - With your second neighbor and shadow circle left 3/4 (8). - Balance (4). - Second neighbors California twirl (4). B2 - Partners balance and swing (16). Alternate A1/A2 A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8). - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8). A2 - Look away from your partner for your shadow. - With your shadow and first neighbor star left 3/4 (8). - Look away from the star for a second neighbor to swing (8). This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends. You always reenter the dance with ladies on the right.
Deanna's Dance Cary Ravitz 6-97
Diamond formation (circle left 1/8 from improper), double progression
Complex
A1 - Face your neighbor in the diamond.
- Men pass left to start a hey (diagonal) (16).
A2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
B1 - Circle left (8).
- Star left using a hands across star (8).
B2 - Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl back into the diamond (8).
- Ladies look for the lady in the next diamond (first new couple),
take right hands, keep your partner, star promenade across, and
butterfly whirl to a new diamond with a second new couple (men go
forward, ladies go backward) (8).
Alternate A1/B2, can be medleyed changing after A1
A1 - Ladies pass right to start a hey (16).
B2 - Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl to face out of the diamond (8).
- Men look for the man in the next diamond (first new couple), take
left hands, keep your partner, star promenade across, and
butterfly whirl to a new diamond with a second new couple (8).
All of the moves start and end in diamond orientation.
To get into diamond formation, start in improper contra formation and
each group of four turns 1/8 (1/2 place) to the left so that ladies
are in the middle and men are on the side.
No one is ever out at the top. If there is no couple to star promenade
with, stay put.
Debra's Dance Cary Ravitz 5-06
Becket
A1 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Pass through across (4).
- Neighbors allemande right 3/4 to a wave across with men in the
middle (4).
B1 - Balance right and left and slide right with a Rory O'More spin
(8).
- Balance left and right and Slide left with a Rory O'More spin
(8).
B2 - Men allemande left 1/2 (2).
- Partners swing (14).
Inverted version, can be medleyed
A1 - On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4).
- Pass through across (4).
- Partners allemande right 3/4 to a wave across with men in the
middle (4).
A2 - Balance right and left and slide right with a Rory O'More spin
(8).
- Balance left and right and Slide left with a Rory O'More spin
(8).
B1 - Men allemande left 1/2 (2).
- Neighbors swing (14).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Dianne's Dance Cary Ravitz 7-96
Diamond formation (circle left 1/8 from improper), double progression
A1 - Star left 3/4 so that the men are in the middle (8).
- Next men allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
A2 - Take hands in a diamond oriented circle.
- Balance and spin one place to the right, as in Petronella (8).
- Take hands in the diamond, balance, and spin one place to the
right (8).
B1 - Star right 3/4 so that ladies are in the middle (8).
- Next ladies allemande left 1+1/2 so that you are progressed and
in a diamond (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing and end in a diamond (16).
To get into diamond formation, start in improper contra formation and
each group of four turns 1/8 (1/2 place) to the left so that ladies
are in the middle and men are on the side.
No one is ever out at the top. For odd length lines, at the bottom,
men and women reenter the dance separately.
Double Whirl Cary Ravitz 10-11
Becket
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Circle RIGHT (8).
A2 - With neighbors men roll away with a half sashay into a butterfly
whirl hold (2).
- Butterfly whirl 3/4 so that men are in the middle (4).
- Star promenade across and butterfly whirl to face in while
shifting to the right one place, to face a new couple (10).
B1 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (8).
- Continue the hey, ladies push off in the middle to trade roles in
the hey, men finish an ordinary hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Dreaming Cary Ravitz 8-05
Becket
Complex
Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
A2 - Look away from your partner for your shadow.
- With your shadow and neighbor star right 3/4 (8).
- Men turn in and neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Shadows do-si-do (across the set) (8).
- Look away from your first neighbor for your second neighbor.
- With your shadow and second neighbor star left 3/4 (8).
B2 - Look away from the star for your partner to balance and swing
(16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
You always reenter the dance with ladies on the right.
Enchanted Cary Ravitz 9-08
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Ladies pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Long lines go forward, partners gypsy 1/2, and long lines go back
(3+2+3).
- Star left 3/4 (8).
B2 - Ladies look for the next lady to allemande right 1 while men walk
to meet your partner (4).
- Partners swing (12).
This is a makeover of Entranced.
The Enchanted Forrest Cary Ravitz 11-98
Becket
Complex
A1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Star left 7/8 (3+1/2 places) using a hands across star so that
men are in the middle (8).
B1 - Men look for a new man to allemande right 1+1/2 while ladies
allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Star left 7/8 with the handy group of four (8).
B2 - Look away from the star for your partner to balance and swing
(16).
Alternate A2/B1, can be medleyed
A2 - Long lines go forward, partners gypsy 1/2, and long lines go back
(3+2+3).
- Star left 7/8 (3+1/2 places) using a hands across star so that
ladies are in the middle (8).
B1 - Ladies look for a new lady to allemande right 1+1/2 while men
allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Star left 7/8 with the handy group of four (8).
Entranced Cary Ravitz 5-97
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
A2 - Star right 3/4 using a hands across star (men are in front of
partners) (8).
- Ladies turn in and neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Pass through across the set and turn alone to face in (4).
- Star left 3/4 (8).
- Ladies look for the next lady to allemande right 1 while men walk
to meet your partner (4).
B2 - Partners swing (16).
(8-09) I changed to wording of B1 to make it easier to teach, but this
does not change the dance. Here is the old wording.
B1 - Pass through across the set and turn alone to face in (4).
- Star left 7/8 (3+1/2 places) to put the ladies in the middle (8).
- Ladies look for the next lady to allemande right 3/4 while men
walk forward to meet your partner (4).
Evil Diane Cary Ravitz 11-00
Becket, double progression
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and with your shadow, men roll
away with a half sashay (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
A2 - Star left (8).
- On the right diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
B1 - Long lines go forward and back and with your partner, men roll
away with a half sashay (8).
- Ladies do-si-do (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
The fundamental figures of this dance are long lines with a roll away,
chain to the left and right, and look for your partner to balance and
swing, a total of 40 counts. This leaves 24 counts that can be filled
in to make a wide range of variations. Null moves that fit nicely
include circle right after the roll away and star left or hey after
either chain. I used star left after the chain left. After the chain
to the right you can include a progression (men progress and ladies
unprogress) to put partners in the same set of four before they
balance and swing. I used another long lines with a roll away to do
this because I like the symmetry and the partner interaction.
This dance is named after Sam Bartlett's tune Evil Diane, for Diane.
The Fair Maid Cary Ravitz 7-05
Becket
A1 - On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4).
- Ladies allemande right 1/2 (2).
- Neighbors allemande left 1+1/4 (6).
A2 - Star left 1/2 using a hands across star (4).
- Men drop out and loop back in behind your neighbor while ladies
turn left 1/2 (4).
- Star left 1/2 (4).
- Men drop out and loop back in while ladies turn left 1/2 (4).
B1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
The A2 figure is borrowed from Of the Mills by John Gallagher.
You can replace the second half of A1 with a ladies chain, then the
women loop in A2.
It is unclear to me if the A2 in this dance takes the right amount of
time. This alternate version uses a little more time and has the
advantage of letting men and women loop out of the star. I will remove
one of these versions eventually.
The Fair Maid (revised) Cary Ravitz 3-06
A1 - On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4).
- Right and left through across (8).
A2 - Star left 1/2 using a hands across star (4).
- Ladies drop out and loop back in behind your partner while men
turn left 1/2 (3).
- Star left 3/4 (6).
- Men drop out and loop back in while ladies turn left 1/2 (3).
B1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Fiddle Tales Cary Ravitz 1-01
Improper contra
Complex
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Ones cross the set by the right, turn left, pass one person and
go to the middle to form a diamond, men facing up in a new minor
set, ladies facing down in their original minor set (8).
- Take hands in the diamond, balance, and spin one place to the
right, as in Petronella (8).
B1 - Balance and spin one place to the right (8).
- Ones turn alone to find your partner to swing and end facing down
(8).
B2 - With new neighbors ones split the twos to start a mirror do-si-do
(8).
- Twos swing and end facing up (8).
The central figures of this dance, A2 and B1, are borrowed from Ted
Sannella's Fiddleheads.
You can run this as an alternating dance (as in Alternating Corners by
Jim Kitch). On even cycles, after the neighbor swing, twos cross the
set, turn left, etc. Men face down and women face up in the initial
diamonds, and after the partner swings (both versions), ones face down
and twos face up.
Flip-Flop Cary Ravitz 8-00 Improper contra 128 count A1 - Neighbors do-si-do (8). - Neighbors swing and end facing down (8). A2 - Go down the hall (4). - Twos cast around the ones (4). - Twos half figure eight below the ones (8). B1 - Twos turn contra corners (16). B2 - Twos balance and swing in the middle and end facing up (16). A1 - Neighbors do-si-do (8). - Neighbors swing and end facing up (8). A2 - Go up the hall (4). - Ones cast around the twos (4). - Ones half figure eight above the twos (8). B1 - Ones turn contra corners (16). B2 - Ones balance and swing in the middle and end facing down (16). This is an alternating contra corners dance, inspired by Jim Kitch's Alternating Corners. Make sure there is enough room below the lines to handle this dance.
Flirting with Love Again Cary Ravitz 10-97
Becket, double progression
Complex
Face your partner, your second shadow is beyond your partner, your
first shadow is beyond your second shadow.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Circle left (8).
A2 - On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
- On the right diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain to your first shadow (8).
B1 - Star left (8).
- Look away from the star for your second shadow to allemande
right 1+1/2 (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Alternate A1
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Long lines go forward and back and with your partner, men roll
away with a half sashay (8).
This dance borrows A1 and A2 from Ken Bonner's Falling in Love Again.
The alternate A1 is borrowed from Cis Hinkle's Rollin' and Tumblin'.
Flying Flamingos Cary Ravitz 6-97 Improper contra A1 - Neighbors allemande right 1+1/2 (8). - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8). A2 - Neighbors gypsy and swing (16) (or balance and swing). B1 - Circle left 3/4 (8). - Partners swing (8). B2 - Star left 3/4 using a wrist hold star (8). - Neighbors allemande left 1+1/2 (8). With fond memories of "the flamingo affair" at Buffalo Gap, June 1997.
Four on the Floor Cary Ravitz 1-99
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
A2 - Star left 7/8 (3+1/2 places) using a hands across star so that
men are in the middle (8).
- Keep hands in the star and men take hands in a long wavy line in
the middle.
- Men balance right and left and ladies balance left and right (4).
- Men slide right and ladies slide left with a Rory O'More spin
(4).
B1 - Men balance left and right and ladies balance right and left (4).
- Men slide left and ladies slide right (4).
- Star left 7/8 using a hands across star (8).
B2 - Look away from the star for your partner to balance and swing
(16).
Fractal Fling Cary Ravitz 4-96
Becket
A1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your neighbor, star promenade
across, and butterfly whirl until the ladies are in the middle
(8).
A2 - Ladies take right hands, keep your neighbor, star promenade
across, and butterfly whirl out (men go forward, ladies go
backward) (8).
- Melt from the whirl into a swing (8).
B1 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the right diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
It is important for the man's arm to be below the woman's arm in the
star promenade. This allows for a smooth melt from the whirl to a
swing.
Tell the dancers to keep a close hold in the middle of the star
promenades, so that the outside people don't run into the next group.
Fractal Frolic Cary Ravitz 3-96
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl until the ladies are in the middle (8).
B1 - Ladies take right hands, keep your partner, star promenade
across, and butterfly whirl out (men go forward, ladies go
backward) (8).
- Melt from the whirl into a swing (8).
B2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
It is important for the man's arm to be below the woman's arm in the
star promenade. This allows for a smooth melt from the whirl to a
swing.
Tell the dancers to keep a close hold in the middle of the star
promenades, so that the outside people don't run into the next group.
The sequence of figures in Fractal Fling is almost identical to that
of Fractal Frolic, but partner and neighbor roles are reversed. To
change from Fractal Fling to Fractal Frolic in a medley, change
Fractal Frolic's first A1 to ladies allemande right 1+1/2, neighbors
swing. To change from Fractal Frolic to Fractal Fling, change Fractal
Frolic's last B2 to right and left through across, long lines go
forward and back and shift left one couple.
Galax Cary Ravitz 9-08
Becket
A1 - Circle left (8).
- Hands across star left (8).
A2 - Men allemande left 1 (6).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl to face in while shifting to the right one
place, to face a new couple (10).
B1 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (8).
- Continue the hey, ladies push off in the middle to trade roles in
the hey, men finish an ordinary hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
I revised this dance to move the progression from the circle phrase
(circle left 3/4, pass through, circle right 3/4 or star left 3/4) to
the butterfly whirl and shifted the phrases to end on the balance and
swing.
Fudge Swirl Cary Ravitz 10-97
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Long lines go forward and back and neighbors roll away with a
half sashay (8).
- Star right (8).
B1 - Look away from the star for a new neighbor to allemande left
1+3/4, to put the men in the middle (8).
- Men take right hands to start a hands across star right.
- Ladies join in behind your neighbor.
- Star right 3/4 using a hands across star (8).
B2 - Ladies turn in and partners gypsy and swing (16).
Reenter the dance with ladies on the left.
Gypsy Eights Cary Ravitz, Danika Murray, Emma Murray 7-05
Becket
Complex
A1 - On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4).
- Ones are moving down the set and twos are moving up the set.
- Ladies chain across and the one men and two ladies roll away with
a half sashay (8).
A2 - Gypsy eights starting with the ones (16).
The ones (diagonally opposite in the set of four) walk to the
middle, gypsy by the right 3/4, and walk back to their neighbor's
place (10) then loop out to return to their original place (6)
while the twos loop out to their neighbor's place (6) then walk
to the middle, gypsy by the right 3/4, and walk back to their
original place (10).
B1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Gypsy Star Cary Ravitz 5-99
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Men walk forward to a wavy line in the middle (4).
- Balance (4).
- Men stay in place while ladies walk forward to a wavy line in the
middle (4) (there are now two interlinked but separate wavy
lines).
- Balance (4).
B1 - Ladies drop left hands and men drop right hands to form a gypsy
star with a new couple.
- Ladies go forward and men go backward to turn the star 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Circle left 3/4 (8).
I suggest that dancers look into their partner's eyes during the wavy
line balances (rather than looking in the direction of the balance).
Also see Woven Waves.
Heart of Glass Cary Ravitz 10-00
Becket
A1 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl to face in (8).
B1 - Ladies pass right to start a hey (16).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
This dance is an easier version of Through the Looking Glass, or you
might see it as Amy Kahn's Sweet Music with a different progression,
or Steve Zakon-Anderson's Twirling at the Alter with the progression
moved from the hey to the circle, or David Zinkin's Becky's Becket
with a different A2.
Hey Weaver Cary Ravitz 9-09
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B1 - Right and left through across (8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
B2 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (8).
- Continue the hey, ladies push off in the middle to trade roles in
the hey, men finish an ordinary hey (8).
Inverted version, Becket
A1 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
B1 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (8).
- Continue the hey, ladies push off in the middle to trade roles in
the hey, men finish an ordinary hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
The first version here is a variation on Hey Fever by Tony Parkes with
push offs in the hey and men allemande left 1+1/2 replaced with circle
left 3/4.
The second version is a variation on Becky's Becket by David Zinkin with
push offs in the hey and long lines replaced by right and left through.
Or if you replace the circle 3/4 / pass through with slide left / circle
3/4 it is a similar variation on Gene Hubert's Butter.
Interstate 75 Cary Ravitz 8-95
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
A1 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies pass
right to start a 1/2 hey and note the neighbor that you pass (8).
A2 - Straight across ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Hands across star right 3/4 (men are in front of partners) (8).
B1 - Look away from the star for the neighbor that you passed in the
diagonal 1/2 hey to balance and swing (16).
B2 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Be alert on the ends.
Janet's Gypsy Cary Ravitz, Janet Bertog 6-11
Becket
A1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Ladies step forward and left to start a half mad robin (4).
- With new neighbors men step forward and right to start a half
mad robin (4).
B1 - Ladies pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Ladies allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
B2 - Partners gypsy and swing (16).
Reenter the dance with ladies on the left.
Jubilation Variation Cary Ravitz 3-06 Improper contra A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). A2 - Circle left 3/4 (8). - Partners swing (8). B1 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8). - Partners swing (8). B2 - Right and left through across (8). - Ladies chain across (8). This dance started out as a variation of Jubilation by Gene Hubert in which the partner allemande is replaced by a swing and the men start the hey. This gives the same swing / 1/2 hey / swing sequence as in Diagonal Discovery, also by Gene Hubert. The dance is further modified by replacing the men allemande left 1+1/2 and long lines with circle left 3/4 and right and left through, which moves the middle of the dance to the opposite side of the set.
Jump Start Cary Ravitz 10-98
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Right and left through across (8)
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B1 - Hands across star right 3/4 (men are in front of neighbor ladies)
(8).
- Ladies turn in and partners swing (8).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors do-si-do (8).
When the men pass right in the middle in the second half of the 1/2
hey, rather than finishing the 1/2 hey, they can take right hands and
turn 1/2 leisurely to start the star, with women joining in as they
finish the 1/2 hey. This makes a nice blending between the hey and
star.
Jump the Tracks Cary Ravitz 3-08
Becket
A1 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Ladies step forward to start a mad robin (see-saw partner facing
neighbor) (8).
A2 - Ladies walk straight across the set (2).
- Neighbors swing (14).
B1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4).
Alternate version, can be medleyed
A1 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Men step forward to start a mad robin (do-si-do partner facing
neighbor) (8).
A2 - Men walk straight across the set (2).
- Neighbors swing (14).
B1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4).
Laura's Lilt Cary Ravitz 10-09
Becket
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Promenade across and shift right one place to face a new couple
(8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
A2 - Star left 1+1/4 (10).
- Shadows allemande right 1 (6).
B1 - Partners gypsy left 1+1/2 (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
A2 is taken (mirrored) from The Ritz by Gene Hubert.
Linda's Flight Cary Ravitz 12-97 Becket A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8). - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8). A2 - Neighbors box the gnat (4). - Neighbors pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8). - Neighbors box the gnat (4). B1 - Neighbors pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8). - With a new couple (and your partner) star left 3/4 (8). B2 - Men turn back and partners balance and swing (16).
Living in Zen (for Liz) (revised) Cary Ravitz 6-10
Reverse improper contra (from proper line, twos cross)
A1 - Neighbors gypsy and swing (16) (or balance and swing).
A2 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Partners gypsy 1+1/2 (8).
B1 - Ladies pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8) (or right and left through
across).
- Hands across star left 3/4 (men are behind partners) (8).
Looking for Love Again Cary Ravitz 9-00
Becket, counter-clockwise, double progression
Complex
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Circle right 3/4 (8).
A2 - On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain to your shadow (8).
- On the right diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and men face in and ladies face out to form
wavy lines at the sides (8) (your shadow is now in your right
hand).
- Balance right and left and slide right with a Rory O'More spin
(8).
B2 - Partners swing (16).
Mad Max Cary Ravitz 11-11
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Pass through across (4).
- With your shadow gate 1/2 (or whirl 1+1/2), men going forward,
ladies backward, to face in, men on the right (4).
- Men step forward and left to start a half mad robin (4).
- With a new couple ladies step forward and right to start a half
mad robin (4).
A2 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey, ladies push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Men step forward and right to start a half mad robin (4).
- With a new couple ladies step forward and left to start a half
mad robin (4) (men are on the right).
- Men start to pass right for a 1/2 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey, ladies 1/2 hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Maliza's Magical Mystery Motion Cary Ravitz 12-96
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Promenade across (8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and turn alone to face a new neighbor (8).
- Take hands with the new couple, balance, and spin one place to
the right (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
March of the Coffee Zombies Cary Ravitz 9-11
Becket
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- March single file in the path of a circle RIGHT 3/4 (8) and turn
to meet new neighbors.
A2 - March single file in the path of a circle left 3/4 (8) to a wave
across, men in the middle, one men facing down, one women facing
up.
- Balance (4).
- Men slide right one place and spin to face in while ladies slide
right two places and spin to face your neighbor (4).
B1 - Neighbors gypsy and swing (or just swing) (16).
B2 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Alternate version, improper
A1 - March single file in the path of a circle left 3/4 (8) to a wave
across, men in the middle, one men facing down, one women facing
up.
- Balance (4).
- Men slide right one place and spin to face in while ladies slide
right two places and spin to face your neighbor (4).
A2 - Neighbors gypsy and swing (or just swing) (16).
B1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Balance (4).
- Pass through to a new neighbor (4).
For the first version, you can substitute a circle right 3/4 for the
first half of the march (A1.9) and a circle left 3/4 for the second
half of the march (A2).
For the second version, you can substitute a star right 3/4 for the
march (A1). A clockwise spin done with the pass through (B2.13) will
help get into the A1.
This was written to go with the wonderful tune March of the Coffee
Zombies, by Tom Cunningham.
Mary Keith's Harmonium Cary Ravitz 1-02 Becket, counter-clockwise A1 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8). - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8). A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). B1 - Pass through across (4). - Circle left (8). - Pass through up and down (4). B2 - Ladies allemande left 1 while men orbit 1/2 clockwise (6). - Partners swing (10). This variation on Amy's Harmonium borrows its B1 from Boomerang by Gene Hubert.
Megadance (for Meg) Cary Ravitz 8-99
Becket, counter-clockwise, double progression
Complex
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your first shadow is in
the other hand, your second shadow is beyond your first shadow.
A1 - Take hands in long lines.
- With first shadows, to the men's left, men roll away with a half
sashay (4).
- With second shadows, to the men's left, men roll away with a half
sashay (4).
- With your second shadow take hands in a circle, balance, and spin
one place to the right, as in Petronella, and men face in and
ladies out to form wavy lines at the sides (8).
A2 - Balance right and left and slide right with a Rory O'More spin
(8).
- Look for a new neighbor to swing (8).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
and men face in and ladies out to form wavy lines at the sides
(8) (your first shadow is now in your right hand).
- Balance right and left and slide right (8).
B2 - Partners swing (16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
The Millennium Hug Cary Ravitz 12-99
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and turn alone to face a new neighbor (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right
(8).
- Star left using a wrist hold star (8).
B1 - Partners allemande left 1/2 (4).
- Ladies pass right to start a 3/4 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (12).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Alternate B1, can be called as dancers' choice
B1 - Partners allemande left 1 (4).
- Men pass right to start a 3/4 hey, ladies push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (12).
Reenter the dance with ladies on the left.
Moment of Inertia Cary Ravitz 5-02
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Men pass through across while ladies walk in, make a small U turn
to the left, and walk out (4).
- Neighbors courtesy turn (4).
- Star right (8).
Alternate A1/B2, can be medleyed changing at A2
A1 - Neighbors allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
- Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B2 - Men pass through across while ladies walk in, make a small U turn
to the left, and walk out (4).
- Neighbors courtesy turn (4).
- Star left (8).
Oh More Snakes Cary Ravitz 11-99, 9-02
Becket, double progression
Complex
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey and then walk straight
forward to a long wavy line in the middle while men move to stand
behind your partner (8).
A2 - Ladies balance right and left (4).
- Ladies slide right with a Rory O'More spin to a new wavy line
while men walk forward to a wavy line in the middle (4). There
are now two interlinked but separate wavy lines.
- Ladies balance left and right while men balance right and left
(4).
- Men slide right with a Rory O'More spin while ladies back out
(4).
B1 - With the handy man men allemande right 1+3/4 (8) (or balance and
allemande right 3/4).
- Partners pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
One Way or Another Cary Ravitz 8-09
Improper contra
A1 - Circle RIGHT 3/4 (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (ladies do a 1/2 hey while men do a 1/2
push off hey) (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey, ladies push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (men do a 1/2 hey while ladies do a 1/2
push off hey) (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
Alternate versions, Becket
A1 - Promenade across (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (ladies do a 1/2 hey while men do a 1/2
push off hey) (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey, ladies push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (men do a 1/2 hey while ladies do a 1/2
push off hey) (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (7).
- Pass through up and down (2).
- With a new couple circle RIGHT 3/4 (7).
Passion Breakdown Cary Ravitz 2-08
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Ladies step forward to start a mad robin (see-saw neighbor facing
partner) (8).
B1 - Ladies walk straight across the set (2).
- Partners swing (14).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Balance (4).
- California twirl (4).
Alternate version, can be medleyed
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Men step forward to start a mad robin (do-si-do neighbor facing
partner) (8).
B1 - Men walk straight across the set (2).
- Partners swing (14).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Balance (4).
- Pass through to a new neighbor (4).
At the start of B1 the men (ladies in the alternate version) should
not step forward into the swing, but should wait for their partner to
cross the set.
Men (ladies in the alternate version) can turn around in the 1/2 hey to
lengthen the eye contact with their partner.
Pigtown Breakdown Cary Ravitz 12-08
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and turn alone to face a new neighbor (8).
- (New) neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Right and left through across (8).
- With your neighbor, on the RIGHT diagonal, walk forward to meet
your shadow (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four (4).
B1 - Right and left through across (8).
- Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
and turn alone to face your partner (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Be alert on the ends.
Pigtown Petronella Cary Ravitz 11-97
Becket, counter-clockwise, double progression
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain to your shadow (8).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and turn alone to face a new neighbor (8).
- Take hands with the new couple, balance, and spin one place to
the right, and turn alone to face your partner (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Note the similarity to Maliza's Magical Mystery Motion. The chain is
to the diagonal left here, so at the end of B1 you must face a new set
of four to find your partner.
Pigtown Swing Cary Ravitz 8-08
Becket
Complex
Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Men's shadows are in their right hand, ladies' shadows are in
their left hand, your first neighbor is directly across the set.
- With your shadow right and left through across (8).
A2 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and turn alone to face a new neighbor (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
and turn alone to face your partner (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Be alert on the ends. You always reenter the dance with ladies on the
left.
Presto Petronella Cary Ravitz 12-96
Becket
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
A2 - Star left 3/4 (8).
- Look away from the star for your partner to gypsy 1+1/2 (8).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella (8).
- Take hands, balance, and spin one place to the right (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Reenter the dance in A2 with ladies on the left.
raDar Love Cary Ravitz 3-02, 10-08 Becket A1 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8). - New neighbors swing (8). A2 - Long lines go forward and back (8). - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8). B1 - Neighbors allemande left 1 (4). - Hands across star left 3/4 (8). - Men (or ladies) allemande left 1 (4). B2 - Partners balance and swing (16). Inverted version, can be medleyed A1 - On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4). - Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4). - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8). A2 - Partners allemande left 1 (4). - Hands across star left 3/4 (8). - Men (or ladies) allemande left 1 (4). B1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8). - Partners swing (8).
Rat Race Cary Ravitz 12-98
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
A1 - Pass through across and face your partner (4).
- Ladies stand still while men pass your partner by the right to
join a new group of four (4).
- Hands across star left 7/8 (3+1/2 places) so that ladies are in
the middle (8).
A2 - Next ladies allemande right 1+1/2 while men allemande left 1+1/2
(8).
- Hands across star left 3/4 with the handy group of four (8).
B1 - Next men allemande right 1+1/2 while ladies allemande left 1+1/2
(8).
- Hands across star left 7/8 with the handy group of four.
B2 - Look away from the star for your partner to balance and swing
(16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
Reel Easy Cary Ravitz 10-95 Improper contra Easy A1 - Neighbors do-si-do (8). - Neighbors swing (8). A2 - Long lines go forward and back (8). - Ladies allemande right 1+1/2 (8). B1 - Partners balance and swing (16). B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8). - Neighbors allemande right 1 (6). - Neighbors pull by by the right (2). To change from a Becket dance to Reel Easy in a medley, change Reel Easy's first figure to circle left 3/4. From a counter-clockwise Becket dance, change it to men allemande left 1+1/2.
Reel to Reel Cary Ravitz 5-03 Improper contra Start with the final figure, neighbors do-si-do 1+1/4, to put the ladies in the middle, ones facing down, twos facing up. A1 - Neighbors allemande right 1/2 (2). - Men allemande left 1 while ladies orbit 1/2 clockwise (6). - Partners allemande right 1/2 (2). - Ladies allemande left 1 while men orbit 1/2 clockwise (6). A2 - Neighbor gypsy and swing (16). B1 - Give and take, ladies take partners back (8). - Partners swing (8). B2 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8). - New neighbors do-si-do 1+1/4 (8).
Reflections Cary Ravitz 6-01 Improper/reverse improper contra, double/single progression Complex A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). A2 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8). - Partners swing (8). B1 - Promenade across (8). - Ladies chain across (8). B2 - Pass through across (4). - Ones look down and twos look up. - Circle left (8). - Neighbors pass by the right (4). Alternate B1 B1 - Long lines go forward and back (8). - Ladies chain across (8). Be alert on the ends. It is important that the people out at the ends reenter the dance as needed by the people in the dance. Odd cycles of this dance start improper, double progress, and end reverse improper. Even cycles start reverse improper, progress singly, and end improper. In the improper cycle, after the pass through across in B2, everyone faces a new neighbor and is reverse improper. In the reverse improper cycle, after the pass through across, everyone faces their current neighbor and is improper. Kathy Anderson suggests that a call to look for current or new neighbors makes the dance go easier. The call for ones to look down and twos to look up often fails as dancers forget whether they are a one or a two. The alternate B1 stops the alternating orientation and leaves the dance as either improper (single progression) or reverse improper (double progression). You can use this as the basic B1 and use the original B1 to change orientations on any cycle of the dance.
Rhyme or Rhythm Cary Ravitz 10-09
Reverse improper contra (from proper line, twos cross)
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B1 - Hands across star right 3/4 (men are in front of neighbor ladies)
(8).
- Ladies turn in and partners swing (8).
B2 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Hands across star left 3/4 (men are behind partners) (8).
Riding Whisky Cary Ravitz 03-07 Improper contra A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). A2 - Pass through across and turn alone to face in (4). - Star left (8). - Look for a new neighbor to box the gnat (4). B1 - Ladies allemande left 1 while men orbit 1/2 clockwise (6). - Partners swing (10). B2 - Men trade places by the right and face in (4). - Circle left (8). - Pass through across and face your neighbor (4). Alternate B2, simpler B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8). - Neighbors do-si-do (8). Reenter the dance with ladies on the left. The box the gnat to orbit transition is from A Good Feeling by Bill Pope.
Roadkill Cary Ravitz 1-98
Becket
Complex
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and with your shadow, men roll
away with a half sashay (8).
- Right and left through across with your shadow (8).
A2 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and turn alone to face a new neighbor (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Right and left through across with your neighbor (8).
- Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
and turn alone to face your partner (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (or just swing) (16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
Rocky Road Cary Ravitz 7-99
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Men's shadows are in their right hand, ladies' shadows are in
their left hand, your first neighbor is directly across the set.
- With your shadow right and left through across (8).
A2 - With your shadow and first neighbor star left 3/4 (8).
- Look away from the star for a second neighbor to swing (8).
B1 - With your second neighbor and shadow circle left 3/4 (8).
- Shadows allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
B2 - Look away from your shadow for your partner to balance and swing
(16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
Note the similarity to Whitewater. Replacing the star with a
positionally equivalent circle, the only difference is the second
figure of A1 and the direction of progression.
Roll Around Cary Ravitz 1-01 Improper contra A1 - Take hands in a circle and balance (4). - Partners (across the set) roll away with a half sashay (4). - Take hands in a circle and balance (4). - Neighbors (on the side) roll away with a half sashay (4). A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). B1 - Circle left 3/4 (8). - Partners swing (8). B2 - Right and left through across (8). - Ladies chain across (8).
Run Around Susie Cary Ravitz 4-07 Becket, counter-clockwise, double progression Complex Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner. A1 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8). - Stand back to back with your partner to face your shadow. - Shadows do-si-do 1+1/4 (8). A2 - Ladies turn around and take inside hands with your shadow. - Walk forward to meet the next couple across the set (2). - Ladies allemande right 1 while men orbit clockwise 1/2 (6). - Neighbors take inside hands. - Walk forward to meet the next couple across the set (2). - Ladies allemande right 1 while men orbit clockwise 1/2 (6). B1 - Partners take inside hands. - Walk forward to meet the next couple across the set (2). - Partners gate (whirl) to face across (6). - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8). B2 - Partners balance and swing (16). Be alert on the ends.
Sealed with a Keith Cary Ravitz 7-97
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner.
A1 - Right and left through across (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies
chain (8).
A2 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- Partners gypsy 1+1/2 (8).
B1 - Look away from your partner for your shadow to allemande left
1+1/2 (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
In this dance you lose your partner, find them for a gypsy, lose them
again, and find them for a balance and swing.
Slice and Dice Cary Ravitz 12-10
Becket
Complex
Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner, your second
shadow is behind you.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- With your shadow, on the left diagonal, walk forward to meet a
new couple (4).
- Take hands with your second neighbor and face your shadow.
- Back up to along the right diagonal (4) (ladies are now on the
left).
A2 - Star left (8).
- Look away from the star for your first neighbor to swing (8).
B1 - With your first neighbor, on the left diagonal, walk forward to
meet a new couple (4).
- Take hands with your second shadow and face your first neighbor.
- Back up to along the right diagonal (4) (ladies are now on the
left).
- Star left (8).
B2 - Look away from the star for your partner to balance to swing (8).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
On the ends, for the left diagonal figure, if there is a couple out,
that couple should participate in the figure. If there is not a couple
out, the odd couple should just cross the set.
The forward to the left, back to the right with your opposite figure is
simplified from Bases Loaded by Jim Saxe, Lydee Scudder, and Tom
Thoreau.
Slip and Slide Cary Ravitz 12-99
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Neighbors pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Pass through across to a wave (across) with ladies in the middle
(4).
- Balance right and left (4).
- Slide right with a Rory O'More spin to a fleeting wave (4).
- Walk forward to a new wave (across) (4).
B2 - Balance RIGHT and left (4).
- MEN slide RIGHT with a Rory O'More spin (4).
- Partners swing (8).
The Slippery Slope Cary Ravitz 4-11
Becket
A1 - Right and left through across (8).
- Pass through across (4).
- Partners allemande right 3/4 to a wave across with men in the
middle (4).
A2 - Balance (4).
- Men slide right one place and spin to face in while ladies slide
right two places and spin to face your neighbor (4).
- Neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Pass through across (4).
- Turn alone to find a NEW neighbor to allemande right 3/4 to a
wave across with ladies in the middle (4).
- Balance (4).
- Ladies slide right one place and spin to face in while men slide
right two places and spin to face your partner (4).
B2 - Partners gypsy and swing (or just swing) (16).
This is a variation on Susan's Slide.
Slipstream Cary Ravitz 6-10
Becket
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Ladies allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Right and left through across (8).
- Ladies start a hands across star right and men fall in behind
your neighbor. From initial positions, turn the star 1 for ladies
and 1/2 for men (8).
B2 - Men look for the next man to allemande left 1 while ladies walk
to meet your partner (4).
- Partners swing (12).
The unusual entry into the star in B1 is taken from Spice of Life by
Bob Dalsemer.
Snake in the Garden Cary Ravitz 7-08
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - With NEW neighbors men allemande left 3/4 to a long wavy line in
the middle (4).
- Balance (4).
- Men back out and ladies walk forward into a long wavy line in the
middle (4).
- Balance (4).
B1 - Ladies allemande right 3/4 with the handy lady (4).
- Partners swing (12).
B2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Circle left 3/4 (8).
Alternate version, can be medleyed
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - With NEW neighbors ladies allemande right 3/4 to a long wavy line
in the middle (4).
- Balance (4).
- Ladies back out and men walk forward into a long wavy line in the
middle (4).
- Balance (4).
B1 - Men allemande left 3/4 with the handy man (4).
- Partners swing (12).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Neighbors do-si-do (8).
After the allemande in B1, partners can swat the flea (first version)
or box the gnat (second version) before the swing.
For either version, the first wavy line can stay in place while the
second wavy line forms. Then the back out for one line happens at the
same time as the allemande for the other.
Snake in the Hey Cary Ravitz 1-98
Improper contra
A1 - Ladies allemande right 3/4 to a long wavy line in the middle (4).
- Balance (4).
- Ladies back out while men walk forward to a long wavy line in the
middle (4).
- Balance (4).
A2 - Men allemande left 3/4 (4).
- Partners box the gnat (4).
- Partners pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B1 - Partners balance and swing (16).
B2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
Songbird Cary Ravitz 1-12
Becket
A1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Circle left 1/2 (4).
- Men step forward and right to start a mad robin (8).
- Ladies pull partners to start a 1/2 pousette (4).
B1 - With new neighbors ladies step forward and left to start a mad
robin (8).
- (With these neighbors) men pull partners to start a 1/2 pousette
(4).
- Men pass right (4).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16) (or gypsy and swing).
The mad robin / 1/2 pousette / mad robin / 1/2 pousette sequence is
from Rough Ride by Tom Hinds.
Southern Spring Cary Ravitz 1-12 improper contra A1 - Neighbors balance and swing(16). A2 - Men step forward and right to start a mad robin (8). - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8) B1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8). - Partners swing (8). B2 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8). - New neighbors do-si-do (8). Alternate version, can be medleyed changing at A2 A1 - Neighbors do-si-do (8). - Neighbors swing (8). A2 - Men step forward and right to start a mad robin (8). - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8). B1 - Partners balance and swing (16). B2 - Right and left through across (8). - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8). The second version is similar to Solstice Special by Tony Parkes.
The Squeaking Reel Cary Ravitz 5-05
Reverse improper contra (from proper line, twos cross)
A1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella (8).
- Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and turn alone to face a new neighbor (8).
The Squeaking Wheel Cary Ravitz 4-02
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Go down the hall (6).
- Keeping hands, twos turn back to back to face up while ones
take hands behind the twos (2).
- Go up the hall (6).
- Twos duck and ones bring joined hands over the twos to form
a four leaf clover (2).
B1 - Turn the clover left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Ladies chain across (8).
This dance is a simple setting of the creation of a four leaf clover
as in Symmetrical Force by Fred Feild and the transition from the
clover to a swing as in Corners at Dawn by Peter Stix. Also see
Lalah's TriskadekaMania by Seth Tepfer and The Connectrix by Rick
Mohr.
Star Trick Cary Ravitz 10-97
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
- Star right 3/4 using a wrist hold star (8).
A2 - Ladies turn in and partners gypsy and swing (16).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella (8).
- Take hands, balance, and spin one place to the right (8).
B2 - Star left 3/4 using a wrist hold star (8).
- Neighbors allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
Starburst Cary Ravitz 7-95 Improper contra A1 - Neighbors take right hands and balance (4). - Neighbors box the gnat (4). - Star right using a hands across star (8). A2 - Ladies chain across to your partner (8). - Star left using a hands across star (8). B1 - Ladies turn out and partners gypsy and swing (16). B2 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8). - New neighbors do-si-do (8). Alternate B1, can be called as ladies' choice B1 - Ladies turn in and partners gypsy left (4). - Partners turn alone clockwise and swing (12).
Starcrossed Cary Ravitz 3-98
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner.
A1 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Look away from your partner for your shadow.
- With your shadow and first neighbor star right 3/4 using a wrist
hold star (8).
- Form wavy lines at the sides with men facing in.
A2 - Balance right and left (4).
- Slide to the right with a Rory O'More spin (4).
- Look for a new neighbor to swing (8).
B1 - Star right 3/4 using a wrist hold star (8).
- Form wavy lines at the sides with ladies facing in.
- Balance right and left (4).
- Slide to the right (4).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (or just swing) (16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
Stardust Cary Ravitz 12-08
Becket
Complex
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your first shadow is in
the other hand, your second shadow is beyond your partner.
A1 - On the left diagonal men allemande left 3/4 to meet another
neighbor man in the middle (4).
- (Next) men allemande right 3/4 (4) (diagonal men have now traded
places).
- (Ladies join in for a) hands across star right 3/4 (6) (you are
now on the side with your first shadow).
- First shadows pass by the right (up and down) (2).
A2 - Partners gypsy 1+1/2 (8).
- Look away from your partner for your second shadow to allemande
left 1+1/2 (8).
B1 - Ladies chain across (8).
- Star left 3/4 (6).
- Second shadows pass by the left (up and down) (2).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Be alert on the ends.
Starfire Cary Ravitz 12-08
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Ladies allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Look for new neighbors for a hands across star left 1 (8).
B2 - Ladies turn alone and take right hands while men keep left hands
to make a gypsy star.
- Ladies go forward and men go backward to turn the star 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Star's End Cary Ravitz 3-02
Becket
A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Star left 3/4 using a hands across star (8).
A2 - Men allemande left 1 while ladies loop to the right to face in
(4).
- Neighbors swing (12).
B1 - Right and left through across (8).
- Star right 3/4 (8).
B2 - Ladies look for the next lady to allemande left 1 while men walk
to meet your partner (4).
- Partners swing (12).
You can swap the long lines forward and back with the right and left
through. This makes for a more conventional transition from the right
and left through. But I like long lines as an opening figure.
Stephanie's Star Cary Ravitz 4-10
Reverse improper contra (from proper line, twos cross)
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Right and left through across (8).
- Hands across star left (8).
B1 - Men turn alone and take right hands while ladies keep left hands
to make a gypsy star.
- Men go forward and ladies go backward to turn the star 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin 1+1/2 places to the
right, as in Petronella, to form a diamond with men in the middle
of the set (8).
- Take hands, balance, and spin 1+1/2 places to the right and turn
to look for a new neighbor (8).
Easy B2, improper contra
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Balance (4).
- California twirl (4).
Strawberry Swirl Cary Ravitz 5-98 Becket, counter-clockwise A1 - Long lines go forward and back (8). - Right and left through across (8). A2 - Circle left 3/4 (8). - Neighbors swing (8). B1 - Star left (8). - With a new couple star right 3/4 using a hands across star (8). B2 - Men turn in and partners gypsy and swing (16).
Streetsboro Daisies Cary Ravitz 10-95 Improper contra A1 - Neighbors allemande left 1+1/2 (8). - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8). A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16). B1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8). - Partners swing (8). B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8). - Neighbors allemande right 1+1/2 (8). This dance was designed to medley with Streetsboro Reel by Becky Hill and Delphiniums and Daisies by Tanya Rotenberg. All of these dances start and end the same.
Susan's Slide Cary Ravitz 3-11, 4-11
Becket
A1 - On the left diagonal walk forward to meet a new couple (4).
- Back up straight to form a set of four with this couple (4).
- Pass through across (4).
- Partners allemande right 3/4 to a wave across with men in the
middle (4).
A2 - Balance (4).
- Men slide right one place and spin to face in while ladies slide
right two places and spin to face your neighbor (4).
- Neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Pass through across (4).
- Neighbors allemande right 3/4 to a wave across with men in the
middle (4).
- Balance (4).
- Men slide right one place and spin to face in while ladies slide
right two places and spin to face your partner (4).
B2 - Partners gypsy and swing (or just swing) (16).
Alternate version
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Pass through across (4).
- Partners allemande right 3/4 to a wave across with ladies in the
middle (4).
A2 - Balance (4).
- Ladies slide right one place and spin to face in while men slide
right two places and spin to face your neighbor (4).
- Neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Pass through across (4).
- Turn alone to find a NEW neighbor to allemande right 3/4 to a
wave across with ladies in the middle (4).
- Balance (4).
- Ladies slide right one place and spin to face in while men slide
right two places and spin to face your partner (4).
B2 - Partners gypsy and swing (or just swing) (16).
For the first version, pass through across / allemande 3/4 to a wave
can alternatively be called as pass through across to a wave /
neighbors allemande right 1/2 to a wave.
For the alternate version reenter the dance with ladies on the left.
The slide from a wave across to a swing comes from A Glimpse of Beauty
by Charley Harvey, and I first danced it in Susan Moffett's dance Ted
Told Me So.
Also see The Slippery Slope.
Susan's Snafu Cary Ravitz 3-00
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner.
A1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella, and turn alone to face a new neighbor (8).
- Take hands with the new couple, balance, and spin one place to
the right, and turn alone to face your shadow (8).
A2 - Star right 3/4 (8).
- Ladies turn in and neighbors swing (8).
B1 - Ladies chain across (8).
- Star left (8).
B2 - Look away from the star for your partner to balance and swing
(16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
Susan's Swing Cary Ravitz 3-08
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Long lines go forward and back and with partners ladies roll
right while men half sashay left (8) (you are now at home).
A2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Turn alone to your right to find a new neighbor to swing (8).
B1 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Reenter the dance with ladies on the left.
Swing Fever Cary Ravitz 2-09
Improper contra, double progression
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Pass through across and face a new neighbor (4).
(New) neighbors gypsy and swing (4+8).
B1 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors do-si-do (8).
This is a variation of Breakup Breakdown.
Sync or Grin Cary Ravitz 11-09
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Partners promenade counter-clockwise around the set to the next
couple (2).
- Men allemande left 1 while ladies orbit counter-clockwise 1/2
(6).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your neighbor, star promenade
across, and butterfly whirl to face in (8).
A2 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey, men push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (8).
- Continue the hey, ladies push off in the middle to trade roles in
the hey, men finish an ordinary hey (8).
B1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (end facing along the set counter-clockwise) (8).
Tara's Trip Cary Ravitz 2-08
Becket
A1 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Long lines go forward and back (8).
- Star left (8).
B1 - Look away from the star for a new neighbor to box the gnat (4).
- Men pass left to start a 3/4 hey, ending on your home side with
your partner (12).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Terry and Sherry Cary Ravitz 10-08
Becket
A1 - Long lines go forward, neighbors gypsy 1/2, and long lines go
back (3+2+3).
- Long lines go forward, neighbors gypsy 1/2, and men take
neighbors back to the side (the men's home side) (3+2+3).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16) (or gypsy and swing).
B1 - Ladies chain across (8).
- Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
B2 - Next ladies allemande left 1/2 (4).
- Partners swing (12).
Through the Looking Glass Cary Ravitz 10-00
Becket
A1 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Men pass left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
B1 - Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl to face in (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Trillium Cary Ravitz 7-08
Becket
A1 - Men allemande left 1 (6).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl to face in while shifting to the right one
place, to face a new couple (10).
A2 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Ladies allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
B1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
This variation of Wildflowers uses the butterfly whirl to progress,
borrowed from Charley Harvey's Amy Asked for a Gypsy. Also see
Chicory.
Trinity 2 Cary Ravitz 9-03
Becket, double progression
A1 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Partners do-si-do (across the set) (8).
- Look for another new neighbor to swing (8).
B1 - Ladies chain across (8).
- Star left 1 using a hands across star (8).
B2 - Ladies turn alone and take right hands while men keep left hands
to make a gypsy star.
- Ladies go forward and men go backward to turn the star 1 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
This is a variation of Trinity by Gene Hubert, replacing long lines
forward and back with do-si-do across the set, star right with a gypsy
star, and shifting the phrases to end with the partner swing. You can
also delete the pass through in A1 to make the dance single progression
(and swing each neighbor twice).
Vicki's Dance Cary Ravitz 5-95
Becket
Complex
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and while backing up start a
partner gypsy (8).
- Partners gypsy 1+3/4 to a wavy line across the set with ladies in
the middle (8).
A2 - Balance (4).
- Men note your position.
- Ladies allemande left 1/4 while men turn in to make a hands
across star left (2).
- Star left (8).
- Men drop out and turn back to where you started while ladies turn
another 1/4 (2).
- Form a wavy line across the set.
B1 - Balance (4).
- Walk forward to the next couple (4).
- Ladies allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
In A2, if the men pretend that there is a flagpole in their right
hand, they can turn around the flagpole into the star and back out of
the star.
Waterfall Cary Ravitz 3-08
Becket
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Circle RIGHT 3/4 (8).
A2 - Turn alone to your left to find a new neighbor to allemande left
1+1/2 (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B2 - Men allemande left 1+1/2 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
Wavefront Cary Ravitz 9-02
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Pass through across (4).
- Neighbors allemande right 3/4 to a wave across with men in the
middle (4).
- Balance right and left (4).
- Slide right with a Rory O'More spin (4).
B1 - Ladies allemande right 1/2 (4).
- Partners swing (12).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Balance (4).
- California twirl (4).
The start of A2 could be called pass through across to a wave /
neighbors allemande right 1/2. This orients people better for the
allemande. But it is easier to teach as noted above.
Wedding Contra for Debbie and John Cary Ravitz 5-96
Becket, double progression
Complex
A1 - Right and left through across (8).
- Star left using a hands across star (8).
A2 - Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl to face in (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, ladies pass
right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B1 - Partners gypsy left 1+1/2 (8).
- Men pass right to start a 1/2 hey across (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Alternate Version, can be medleyed
A1 - Right and left through across (8).
- Star right using a hands across star (8).
A2 - Ladies keep right hands, pick up your partner, star promenade
across, and butterfly whirl to face in (men go forward, ladies go
backward) (8).
- On the left diagonal, only if there is someone there, men pass
left to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B1 - Partners gypsy 1+1/2 (8).
- Ladies pass left to start a 1/2 hey across (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Where Will I Be Cary Ravitz 12-10
Becket, counter-clockwise
Complex
In long lines, your partner is in one hand, your shadow is in the
other hand.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and with your shadow, men roll
away with a half sashay (8).
- Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella (8).
A2 - Star left (8).
- Look away from the star for a new neighbor to swing (8).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right
(8).
- Star left (8).
B2 - Look away from the star for your partner to gypsy and swing (16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
You can replace the Petronella turn / star left figures with right and
left through across / star left 3/4. This is positionally equivalent,
flows well, and has relaxed timing.
The Petronella turn into a star left transition is from Discombobulation
by Jim Kitch.
Whim's Gym Cary Ravitz 9-02 Improper contra A1 - Neighbors do-si-do (8). - Neighbors swing (8). A2 - Right and left through across (8). - Ladies allemande right 1+1/2 (8) B1 - Partners balance and swing (16). B2 - Circle left 3/4 (7). - Neighbors pull by by the right (3). - Partners pull by by the left (3). - Neighbors pull by by the right (3). Easy B2 B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8). - Balance (4). - California twirl (4). The B2 in this dance is from Jim's Whim by Rich MacMath.
Whirl of Fortune Cary Ravitz 4-99
Becket
A1 - Partners roll away with a half sashay into a butterfly whirl hold
(4).
- Butterfly whirl 3/4 (ladies go backward, men go forward) (3).
- Star promenade across (ladies in the middle) (4).
- Butterfly whirl 1+1/4 to face in (ladies go backward, men go
forward) (5).
A2 - Men pass right to start a 1/2 hey, ladies push off in the middle
to trade roles in the hey (8).
- Continue the hey, men push off in the middle to trade roles in
the hey, ladies finish an ordinary hey (8).
B1 - Partners balance and swing (16).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (7).
- Pass through up and down (2).
- With a new couple circle RIGHT 3/4 (7).
B2 here is taken from Gene Hubert's Reunion.
Whirlaway Cary Ravitz 5-01
Becket
A1 - Slide left to a new couple (2).
- Circle left 3/4 (6).
- Circle right (8).
A2 - With neighbors men roll away with a half sashay into a butterfly
whirl hold (4).
- Butterfly whirl 3/4 (ladies go forward, men go backward) so that
men are in the middle (4).
- Star promenade across and butterfly whirl to face in (8).
B1 - Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
- Ladies allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Whitewater Cary Ravitz 2-97
Becket
Complex
Face your partner, your shadow is beyond your partner.
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Men's shadows are in their right hand, ladies' shadows are in
their left hand, your first neighbor is directly across the set.
- Long lines go forward and back and shadows roll away with a half
sashay (8).
A2 - Circle RIGHT 3/4 with your shadow and first neighbor (8).
- Look away from the circle for a second neighbor to swing (8).
B1 - Circle left 3/4 with your second neighbor and shadow (8).
- Shadows allemande right 1+1/2 (8).
B2 - Look away from your shadow for your partner to balance and
swing (16).
This dance has multiple individual progressions. Be alert on the ends.
There are three progressions in this dance. First, men unprogress and
women progress with first neighbors in the middle of A1. Then men and
women progress with a shadow in the middle of A2. And finally, men
progress and women unprogress with second neighbors at the end of B1.
The second neighbor becomes the new first neighbor.
Wildcats Cary Ravitz 1-05
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners allemande right 1+3/4 to put the men in the middle (8).
B1 - Men allemande left 1 while ladies loop left or allemande left
with a lady in the next line (6).
- Partners swing (10).
B2 - Men pass left to start a 3/4 hey, ending at home (12).
- Neighbors gyspy by the right 1/2 (4).
Wildflowers Cary Ravitz 7-08
Becket
A1 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors swing (8).
A2 - Men allemande left 1 (6).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your neighbor, star promenade
across, and butterfly whirl to face in (10).
B1 - Ladies chain across (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B2 - Partners balance and swing (16).
Inverted version, can be medleyed
A1 - Men allemande left 1 (6).
- Men keep left hands, pick up your partner, star promenade across,
and butterfly whirl to face in (10).
A2 - Ladies chain across (8).
- Ladies pass right to start a 1/2 hey (8).
B1 - Look for a NEW neighbor to balance and swing (16).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
This is similar to Heart of Glass but modifies the entry to the star
promenade to relax the timing. The chain / 1/2 hey combination is also
more relaxed than a full hey.
A nice variation for the first version is to remove the pass through
up and down from A1 and make the ladies chain to the left diagonal.
Also see Chicory, Galax, and Trillium.
Winter Wind Cary Ravitz 12-11
Becket, counter-clockwise
A1 - Long lines go forward and back and partners roll away with a half
sashay (8).
- Circle RIGHT 3/4 (8).
A2 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
B1 - Take hands in a circle, balance, and spin one place to the right,
as in Petronella (8).
- Take hands, balance, spin one place to the right, and turn alone
to face a new neighbor (8).
B2 - (With new neighbors) star right 3/4 (8);
- Men turn in and partners swing (8).
Woven Waves Cary Ravitz 5-99
Improper contra
A1 - Neighbors balance and swing (16).
A2 - Ladies walk forward to a wavy line in the middle (4).
- Balance (4).
- Ladies stay in place while men walk forward to a wavy line in the
middle (4) (there are now two interlinked but separate wavy
lines).
- Balance (4).
B1 - Men drop left hands and ladies drop right hands to form a gypsy
star.
- Men go forward and ladies go backward to turn the star 3/4 (8).
- Partners swing (8).
B2 - Circle left 3/4 and pass through up and down (8).
- New neighbors do-si-do (8).
I suggest that dancers look into their partner's eyes during the wavy
line balances (rather than looking in the direction of the balance).
In A2, men taking (right) hands below the ladies' hands makes the
eventual transition to a swing easier (a good tip from Jackie Green).
Also see Gypsy Star.