In so many ways, this idea of trading eights is the perfect metaphor for a life in dance. The improvisation comparison is obvious as life itself is innately something we sort of make up as we go along. However, the keys to success are where the true similarities lie. To really make it work, you have to take what you’re given. Sometimes life throws you a curve and sometimes you get an underhanded lob right over the plate. Either way, when it’s your turn; when it’s your eight, you gotta dance. If the dancer ahead of you sticks a machine gun phrase or whips out some crazy trick, let it inspire you and drive you forward. You can’t get intimidated, start panicking about your own steps, and spit out something muddled and frantic. Instead, use the brilliance that surrounds you. Steal a little bit of their phrase, make it your own, turn it into your own melody. Above all else take action. Don’t think, just dance. Trading eights is more about listening and sharing than it is about being a great soloist and planning out every little step.
Sometimes you feel bold and reach for something way out of your league (like that time I attempted a one-footed 5-count double wing). And sometimes you might crash and burn (I looked like a spazz and fell on my face). When you fail (or flail), get back to the basics. Keep it simple. Make sure you come in on the downbeat, finish clean, pick up your feet, get back to what you know. Then you build from there and when you’re rolling again…go back to living bold. Either way, there is always another eight waiting to be conquered. Whatever comes your way, put one foot in front of the other and just keep dancing. One eight at a time.
Here’s to the next eight…
Ryan Kasprzak is a contributing columnist for '10 out of 12 – Notes from the Performing Arts Project.' The Performing Arts Project is a not-for-profit organization formed by a group of respected educators and entertainment industry professionals to help prepare the next generation of performers. For more info visit www.performingartsproject.com
