Continuing our look at 18th Century dance in advance of Her Majesty's Ball, we come to a number called "Hole In The Wall." This is an easy dance to learn, but to truly enjoy it, you must savor those figures where you step to your partner in the middle of the set and join your eyes as you exchange places. The look you give to your dancing companion means everything. It should be more than a passing glance. Fill your countenance with happiness, and honour your partner with the warmth of your expression. Gaze straight into the other's eyes and let your soul shine through.
This clip from Becoming Jane should illustrate the point, and again, I bow to Madame Noire for suggesting it.
Ahhhhhhh... do you not want to put on your breeches, silk jacket and buckled shoes?
But what if your partner is new to the joy of the dance and still needs a few pointers on the figures? Never fear, good ladies and gentlemen! In these modern days, a caller often leads you through. But even in the absence of one, a skilled dancing master can teach on the floor using a mixture of simple vocal instructions and hand gestures. Watch how a gentleman of the Covent Garden Minuet company leads a couple through "Hole In The Wall."
Remember, if you can walk, you can dance! Huzzah!
3 comments:
My dearest Viscount Francis:
I curtsy back to you as well. Hole in the wall is one of my favorite dance to dance besides Grimstock. Thank you for sharing your passion with your readers. May God bless you as always, my dear sir!
My humble servant and your friend in Christ,
Madame Noire
Correction:
Your humble servant and your friend in Christ,
Madame Noire
My Dearest Madame Noire,
Thank you so much for your suggested visual illustrations of the merry art we both enjoy. Perhaps I shall see you at Her Majesty's Ball one day, no?
With a graceful bow to you,
I Remain,
Your Friend & Humble Servant,
And Brother In Christ
Viscount Christopher
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