We take as much time as needed to workshop something with one dance partner, but we want to be proactive in finding new dance partners throughout practice, especially if there are new Hopcats. We want to build a welcoming dance community!

Every time we find a new dance partner, we ask our partner if they would like to lead, follow, or switch. If they lead and we lead, then we find another partner who follows/switches. We encourage learning both roles, but feel free to focus on one role.

We are a group of people trying to improve at our dancing, so providing each other feedback is essential. However, we want to make sure we do so in a respectful and constructive way. When a move feels off, we don’t want to assume that we must be correct and the other must be wrong. In fact, we might be doing something wrong! Let’s not make overconfident suggestions, and keep an open mind. We want our feedback sessions to be more like fun creative brainstorming sessions. Here are some ways that we can provide feedback:

1. Hmm, this connection feels [so and so]. What do you think? I feel like if I do [so and so], I can improve it. Do you think there’s anything you can do on your end to help it?

2. I’m trying to figure out why this connection feels [so and so]. I’ve tried doing [so and so], and it still feels off. Do you think there’s anything else I can do? Do you think if you did [so and so], that will help with this connection?

3. Hopcat 1: “I’m trying to figure why my [so and so] looks strange. What do you think?

   Hopcat 2: “Hmmm, have you tried [so and so]? Maybe try that and see if it helps?”

We clap and cheer during the Exit Jam!

And lastly, the Hopcats special sauce: be fun and goofy!