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One Figure 

A Step is a movement of the foot from here to there. A Figure is a specific sequence of steps forming a set that is complete, is often standardized, and is widely accepted and used as one component of a dance routine.

Waltz Back & Back Lock Back

by Harold & Meredith Sears

We might be in banjo position facing reverse. Step back L, bk R/ lock LIF of R (woman RIB of L), and bk R;

This is a figure where shoulder lead really contributes to comfort and ease of execution. Men, keep your right shoulder back. Your hips and belly button should be facing DRC and your partner, not RLOD, past your partner. Women, your left shoulder is forward. Your hips are oriented toward DLW and toward your partner. You are not oriented square to the line of dance but are angled, "slicing" your way down line. The advantage of this angled body orientation is that the locking steps occur easily. The free foot is lined up with the supporting foot, so when you bring it up it naturally runs into that supporting foot and locks. If you dance this figure more side-by-side, man facing RLOD and woman facing LOD, then your free foot is to the side of your supporting foot. To lock it, you must move it laterally, swing it around the supporting foot and hook it. It is an awkward effort. In a sliced position, the lock is a smooth result of the step itself.


More Waltz figures here, or go to index.


this article was published in the
Dixie Round Dance Council (DRDC)
Newsletter, July, 2010


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