strathspey@strathspey.org:45684

Timothy Wilson

Re: Dolphin reels revisited

June 28, 2006, 1:38 a.m. (Message 45684, in reply to message 45675)

In my experience dancing in the San Francisco Branch, I have heard the reels 
in the Dolphin Book most often referred to as "alternating tandem reels" or 
"dolphin reels" during talk-throughs and teaching. Occasionally I have heard 
the other term that Ron mentioned of "tandem reels in which the lead changes 
or alternates." Some local teachers use "tandem reel" to describe the 
follow-the-leader reel though I think I have heard "shadow reel" (as Lara 
noted) more frequently used--perhaps to avoid confusion.

I have learned, and danced, The Dancing Dolphins but do not recall a special 
emphasis on the 1st couple dancing in a parallel alignment relative to the 
set. Obviously I should take another look at that dance. Thanks for your 
careful reading Peter.

I have to laugh though. We've got "falcon" reels and "dolphin" reels which 
must mean that most of our reels are neither fish nor fowl. (And, yes, I 
_am_ aware that a dolphin is not a fish). Perhaps we can add "haring 
reels"--for when at least one dancer goes off on their own--or better yet 
"red herring reels" when one dancer follows a cue that sends him or her in 
the wrong direction.

Cheers,
Tim Wilson
San Francisco, CA