Square Dance Etiquette Question

[bjarvis]

A relatively new square dancer asked me the following question tonight:
How do you politely deal with someone who wishes to be your dance partner but makes you exceedingly uncomfortable?

I suggested pre-emptively ensuring you have a partner already arranged for the upcoming tip but this ducks the issue rather than dealing with it. Likewise choosing to sit out a tip rather than dance with the objectionable party is inadequate: one shouldn't have to sacrifice one's own participation in an event just because of one individual.

Thoughts?

Comments

[bjarvis.livejournal.com]

I might if I didn't have a mic in my hand most times now. Being a caller has made socializing at club nights more... complicated.

[paigemom.livejournal.com]

huh. The callers/teachers at the dance camps I've been to usually had the easiest time getting laid...

[billeyler.livejournal.com]

You're right about that, friend. Socializing is nearly non-existent for me as a caller, and it's impossible to step into conversations in progress during the breaks. I don't take offense to it, since it feels part of my job as a caller to make OTHERS feel comfortable socializing, toxic dancer or no. It's a juggling act, and yes...complicated.

[bjarvis.livejournal.com]

Yeah, even between tips, one's obliged to play host/hostess by providing a comfortable atmosphere & environment. These are also responsibilities of the club officers of course but it comes with the roll.