A writer is a professional spinner of lies. His job: to lay out the truth on a bed of magnificent lies so it is visible… »
Footnotes
Message from Mars 3
A negative inflection will make a disproportionately stronger impact on the receiver than the verbal content. So the dancer who feeds back “You are rushing me” – which, on its own, is not bad – is likely to do more damage if s/he delivers that in the wrong tone of voice. The last part of… »
Message from Mars 2
Productive communication produces a supportive climate where meaningful and problem-orientated exchanges can take place, and sets the stage for more of the same. Ditto, negative communication. It encourages a defensive climate, leading to more of counterproductive communication and conflict. Tips for the athlete? Five actionable points stand… »
Message from Mars
One of the burning regrets in my life is that I do not speak fluent Venusian. The nuances of the language have eluded me despite my best efforts, and I am slowly beginning to accept that I will never fully comprehend it. I have also realised the average Venusian has little knowledge of the language… »
Bust to bust
If you are female, dancer, and in the midst of a frustrating partner-hunt, you will want to read this. Men, we don’t need to bother. We will be just fine — as we have always been…. »
Of ballroom and Blackpool
The ballroom in Blackpool Tower is breathtaking. Especially the first time you walk on to it. I guess it is a combination of factors: the sheer expansiveness of the floor set in durbar hall-like surroundings, leading up to a glorious… »
Four hands, one brain
Ballroom jive is good fun. That is, if you are naturally bouncy and good at remembering routines with umpteen, quick ‘changes of… »
Oh boy!
Here’s an interesting question: why is it okay for two women to dance together but not for two men? I have noticed it at ballroom and salsa. A woman dancing with another raises no eyebrow. But two men dancing? That is cause for great… »
A splash of salsa
Inside, more black ties and evening gowns scattered around a well-lit dance floor, where a sizeable crowd is swaying to live hip-hop. After dinner. “Do you feel a bit shabby?” asks… »
Thou shalt…
Did you know in Indianapolis there are more men dancing than women? Thank goodness things are a bit different in England –- and may it remain that way… »
Dance gorilla, dance!
Scene, favourite dance studio in Winton. Present, facing full-length mirror, Pale English Woman (aka Heidi Cruwys) and Dark Indian Man. Present in background, Pale English Man (aka Simon Cruwys) and amused onlookers (two). On, Cha Cha… »