3 Putting the Stretch Into Context

COURSE: Stretch and Frame

FOCUS: This lesson focuses on using the pass-by move to demonstrate how to apply stretch and frame in dance, with variations including inside and outside turns to practice these concepts.

TIP & TRICKS:

• Maintain a distance from your partner to avoid pulling and create proper stretch.
• Open your body on step three to build stretch, keeping shoulders down and arms aligned with your center.
• For inside turns, keep your shoulder down when your arm is raised to maintain connection.
• For outside turns, bring your arm closer to your body on step three to initiate the turn without pulling.
• During turns, always keep your elbows visible in your peripheral vision to maintain frame.
• Increase energy on step three to add dynamics, then release on step four for fluid movement.

REMEMBER:

• Stretch is built and released in coordination with body movement, not by pulling on your partner.
• Frame involves keeping shoulders down and arms connected to your body center for stability.
• Proper distance between partners is crucial to avoid excessive tension and allow natural stretch.
• In turns, maintain frame by ensuring elbows do not go behind you, keeping them in sight.
• Dynamics can be added by speeding up movements, particularly on step three to enhance stretch.
• Practice variations like inside and outside turns to apply stretch and frame principles in different contexts.