Created by Allen Dodsworth, who was a famous leading teacher of
his day. He created it to teach his pupils more variation in 'the
dance.' The Amsterdam was an open and shut dance ... that is, the
first part was danced side by side with a partner, and the second
part, or turn was danced in the waltz position (aka closed position)
with the lady holding her dress out with right hand, while the gentleman
allows his left to remain at his side.
This dance was composed in order to
bring in use more of the graceful body movements in round dancing
than heretofore, thereby accustoming the pupil to these valuable
poses. |
Ballrooms