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The
Wheel is a Waltz or Two-Step figure, but it is used in other rhythms as
well. In any of a variety of positions or hand holds, such as banjo,
right-right hands, bolero, or sombrero, the couple walks in a
clock-wise circle around an imaginary spot between them. We might make
one full turn in two measures of music, or we might be told to Wheel to
a designated position and orientation. Choreography can also have us
Wheel in a counter-clockwise circle.
In waltz, the
steps are forward turning to the right, forward, close; fwd, fwd, cl;
In two-step, the steps are forward, close, forward; fwd, cl, fwd;
Sometimes the Wheel is done with all forward steps and therefor more progression (and perhaps less rise and fall in waltz).
A syncopated waltz wheel might be danced with a tempo of 1&2&3&;
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The
Wheel is a simple figure. We are just walking in a circle. Two measures
of music is a fairly long period of time, so we have the opportunity to
do more than just walk. We can always use such time to create little
"mini-pictures" that are representative of the music and our moods at
that moment. Sway slightly toward partner or away, and match body lines
in a symmetrical shape. Turn your upper bodies toward each other so
that shoulders are parallel and there is a connection and an awareness
of each other. Extend the arms in a complementary way.
In the DeFores' Lynn's Waltz,
part C begins in butterfly banjo facing wall with a banjo wheel 6 to
the right to sidecar;; and then a wheel to the left to face wall
again;;—lots of time for shaping, expression, and a pretty picture.
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