Contra Dance Choreography by John Coffman

(contra dance compositions)

Contact Information: Ph # 573-334-4706

johndcoffman55@gmail.com

Aback             by John Coffman                     3/11, revised 8/11, 2/13

Duple, Improper, REVERSE PROGRESSION

A1      Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

A2       Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

Partner Swing (8)

B1       Right and Left Through {across}(8)

            Ladies Chain {to neighbor}with Extra Courtesy {see notes}(8)

B2       Neighbor See Saw ¾ to make a short wavy line across the set.  {see notes}  (8)

            Balance the Wave {R, L} (4), Missouri Twirl {see notes} (4)

            Start dance over with new neighbors

Alternate A1: Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

Notes:  This is a REVERSE PROGRESSION dance; that is, ones will progress up the hall, and twos will progress down the hall. 

To teach this dance, I would have dancers take hands four, and face their current neighbor.  Then, tell them they will progress backwards; that is, their next neighbors are behind them.  You might have dancers drop hands and turn around to meet their next neighbors behind them.  After introducing dancers to their next neighbors, ask them to turn back around to take hands four with their current neighbors.

B1: The "ladies chain with extra courtesy" starts like a normal ladies chain.  However, the men should continue to courtesy turn the woman for another 180 degrees, so both dancers end up facing outside the set {with the lady on the right as you face outside the set}.  Dancers will then have connected left hands to pull into the see saw {left shoulder dos-si-dos}.

In B2, after the Neighbor See Saw {left shoulder dos-si-dos} ¾, all will end up in a short wavy line across the set. All will have right hands with their neighbor, and ladies will have left hands in the center; ones will be facing down, and twos will be facing up {the normal direction of progression}.  You and your neighbor will have joined right hands, and you will be facing opposite directions.  Balance the wave {R, L}, ladies drop left hands and Missouri Twirl with your neighbor.  [A Missouri Twirl has much of the feel of a California Twirl, with this exception: you and neighbor start facing opposite directions, and you end up facing opposite directions.]  When the Missouri Twirl is complete, all will be facing their new {reverse progression} neighbors.  The progression takes place at the end of B2 with the Missouri Twirl.

Dancers will have time to loop wide on the See Saw ¾ in B2.

When out on the ends, stand out with the lady on the left, and the man on the right as you face back in.

Jim Hemphill provided feedback that improved flow in B1

See the original version danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-M1mtuzh4nw

Aberdeen Angus     by John Coffman                     2/11, Revised 2/13

Duple, Improper,

A1       Neighbor Allemande Left 1  X  (8)

Men Dos-Si-Dos 1 1/2 (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Spin 1 Place to the Right (4)

            Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Spin 1 Place to the Right to face New Neighbors (4)

Start dance over with new neighbors

Alternate A1:  Neighbor Allemande Left 1  X  (8)

          Men Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

Notes: The progression takes place at the end of B2; spin one place to the right, and spin a little more (or less) to face your new neighbor.

Abracadabra                       by John Coffman    12/10

Duple, Becket, COUNTERCLOCKWISE

A1       Right Diagonal Right and Left Through (8)

            Circle Right 3/4 (8)

A2       Neighbor Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

{Straight Across} Ladies Chain {to partner}(8)

B1       Left Hand Star ¾  (8)

Old {previous} Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

Notes:  All will progress two places with the right diagonal right and left through in A1.  In B1, all will un-progress one place when they swing their old {previous} neighbors for a net progression of one forward {counterclockwise}.

To teach the dance, I would have dancers take a hard look at the dancers on their right diagonal – call these dancers their old neighbors, and tell them they will come back to them.  Now, have dancers do a right diagonal right and left through with these old neighbors.

The Old Neighbor Swing in B1 is with the neighbor dancers did the right diagonal right and left through with.

End Effects: Dancers are never really out in this dance.  If a couple finds themselves alone after the right diagonal right and left through, they should stand out with the lady on the left, man on the right so they can be ready for the old {previous} neighbor swing.  When waiting for the right diagonal right and left through, dancers should position themselves accordingly.

Adam's Apple                     by John Coffman                9/2012

Duple, Improper                      (Inspired by and written for Adam Hinton)

A1   Neighbor Left Hand Balance (4), Swat the Flea {see notes} (4)

    Ladies Dos-Si-Dos 1X (8)

A2   Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1   Circle Left 3/4 (8)

        Partner Swing (8)

B2  Right and Left Through; Men Roll {their Partner}Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay  (8)

        Star Right 3/4 (8)

 Progress to next neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: The "Swat the Flea" figure in A1 is a left handed "Box the Gnat."

Adam's Dance                     by Adam Hinton                5/2012

Duple, Improper

A1   Neighbor Left Hand Balance (4), Swat the Flea {see notes} (4)

    Ladies Chain {to partner}(8)

A2   Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}(16)

B1   Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2  Promenade Across {with partner}; Men Roll {their Partner}Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay  (8)

        Star Right 3/4 (8)

        Progress to next neighbors to start the dance over.

Alternate B2:

B2  Right and Left Through; Men Roll {their Partner}Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay  (8)

        Star Right 3/4 (8)

Notes: The "Swat the Flea" figure in A1 is a left handed "Box the Gnat."

Ain't Dancing Grand?                 by John Coffman        12/12

Duple, Improper                      {Written for Peggy Lavender}

A1      Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

           Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Right and Left Through (8)

Ladies Chain (8)

B2       Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right (4)Balance the Ring (4),

            Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right {with a little extra twirl} to face

        new neighbors and start dance over (4)

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yfv0la4xZPs&list=UUF_ExFYC6eUgoCdNsFQ0ADg&index=2

or here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avssma_-Nyg&feature=youtu.be

All Over the Place         by John Coffman     6/9/25

Duple,  Improper

A1      Right Hand Star 3/4  (8)

             Right and Left Through  (8)

A2       Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}  (16)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

              Circle Left 3/4, Pass Through Up and Down to find New Neighbors  (8)

Note: A1: Use a wrist hold star.  Men should give a small tug on their neighbor lady's wrist to pull into the right and left through..

All the King's Men                 by John Coffman        8/24/14

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Circle Right 3/4 (8)

           Partner  Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

A2       Shadow Allemande Right 1 1/2 to form Long Wavy Lines {Men face out} (8)

            Balance the Wave {R,L} (4), Slide Right as in Rory O'More  (4)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8),

                Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8)

        Face new neighbors and start dance over

Note:  To identify shadow before the walk through, have dancers temporarily step into Becket; shadow is beyond partner.  Then, have dancers return to standard Improper formation for the walk through.

Alternating Current      by John Coffman     8/11

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2     Right and Left Through (8)

         Men Roll Neighbor Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay (4), Ladies Roll Same Neighbor Man Away with 1/2 Sashay (4)

B1     Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2    Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Spin 1 Place to the Right (4)

        Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl (4)

Notes: A2: For ladies that like to twirl (ladies choice), a twirl works nicely with the Right and Left Through.  [Without the twirl, some men may roll the ladies away prematurely, mildly disrupting the flow of the dance.]  So, when teaching, I like to suggest a twirl for the ladies that like to twirl.

We have noticed that without careful teaching, many dancers will attempt the first (ladies roll) prematurely, because lots of dances have the right and left through and courtesy turn and roll away compressed into 8 counts of music.  For this dance to flow properly, dancers need to take the full 8 counts to do the right and left through (including the courtesy turn).  Then the first (ladies) roll away takes place during the first 4 counts of the following (8 count) phrase.

Dancers' muscle memory will influence them to do the first roll away prematurely, so the caller needs to help them understand the timing.

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=js_HtnxmjoY

Amber Green's Black Eye         by John Coffman     12/10/23

Duple,  Improper

A1      Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

             Promenade Across with Neighbor  (8)

A2       1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}  (8)

               Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Neighbor Right Hand Balance {across set}, Box the Gnat  (8)

              Right Hand Star 3/4  (8)

Start dance over with new neighbors

Note: I prefer a hands across star in this dance.

An Arm and a Leg           by John Coffman    2/11

Duple, Becket

A1       Left Diagonal Right and Left Through (8)

            Ladies Chain {across}(8)

A2       Left Hand Star 1X (8)

            With Old Neighbors, Right Hand Star 1X (8)

 B1       Ladies Turn In, Old Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B2       Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

Partner Swing (8)

Notes:  All will progress two places with the left diagonal right and left through in A1.  In A2, all will un-progress one place when they find their old neighbors to Left Hand Star 1X {for a net progression of 1 place forward}.

To teach the dance, I would have dancers take a hard look at the dancers on their left diagonal – call these dancers their old neighbors, and tell them they will come back to them.  Now, have dancers do a left diagonal right and left through with these old neighbors.

In A1, the ladies chain is with the neighbors now across from you. 

The Old Neighbor Gypsy and Swing in B1 is with the neighbor dancers did the left diagonal right and left through with.

End Effects: Dancers are never really out in this dance.  If a couple finds themselves alone after the left diagonal right and left through, they should stand out with the lady on the right (as in most duple improper dances) so they can be ready for the right hand star with their old neighbors.  When waiting for the left diagonal right and left through, dancers should position themselves accordingly.

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czfV8m7q3k8

or here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrnPWhx6oEI

Angie's Astonishment                 by John Coffman        12/13/18

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

A2       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

            Partner Swing  (8)

B1       Right and Left Through, Men Roll Partner Lady Away with 1/2 Sashay  (8)

            Right Hand Star 3/4  (8)

B2       Square Through Four {with balances - start with right hands with you partner}  (16),

Start dance over with new neighbors

Angle of Incidence                 by John Coffman        6/30/17

Duple, Becket                     

A1      Right and Left Through to a Wavy Line {see notes} (8)

           Balance the Wave {R, L} (4), Slide Right as in Rory O'Moore (4)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

            Partner Swing (8) 

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back, Slice Right to get across from new neighbors (8),

             Promenade Across (8)

Start dance over with dancers now across; progression takes place in B2 with the long lines, slice right

Notes: A1: Right and Left Through to a Wavy Line; Courtesy Turn an additional 1/4 to form the short wavy line; all will have left hands with their partner; ladies will have right hands in the center

Another Chance for Love      by John Coffman  7/11

Duple, Becket

A1    Full Hey {Men pass LEFT shoulders to start} (16)

A2   Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1    Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

     Circle Left 3/4 (6), Pass Through Up and Down (2)

B2    Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

Dance starts over with the neighbors now across from you

Notes: It might be helpful to have dancers identify their shadow before teaching the dance.  While standing next to your partner in becket formation, look at your partner; your shadow is beyond your partner (in the next minor set).  After the left diagonal ladies chain, your shadow is across from you.

Timing is tight in B1; I would encourage a courtesy turn instead of twirling.

Another Runaround                       by John Coffman      2/12

Duple, Improper, 3 Part Dance for 3 Part Tunes {AABBC Format}

A1        Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos 1X to Long Wavy Lines {men face out}  (8)

            Balance the Lines {R, L} (4), Slide Right {as in Rory O'More} (4)            

A2        Neighbor Allemande Left 1 X  (8)

            Promenade Across {men pass left shoulders}  (8)

B1        Mad Robin {ladies to inside first}  (8)

            Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

B2        Partner Balance and Swing (16) 

C1       Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Spin One Place to the Right (4)

           Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl  (4) 

Start dance over with new neighbors

Notes: This dance is actually just a variation of "The Runaround" below.

April's Meow         by John Coffman     4/13/25

Duple,  Improper

A1      Circle Left 1/2,  Men  Roll Neighbor Lady Away with Half Sashay (8)

             1/2 Hey {men pass left shoulders to start}  (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

              Partner Swing  (8)

B2       Neighbor Left Hand Balance {across set}, Swat the Flea  (8)

              Left Hand Star 3/4 to find new neighbors  (8)

Around the Bend    by John Coffman        2/12

Duple, Improper, 3 Part Dance for 3 Part Tunes [AABBCC Format]

A1  Neighbor Allemande Right 1X to Long Wavy Lines {men face out, ladies face in} (8)

      Balance the Lines {R,L} (4), Slide Right as in Rory O'More (4)

A2  Neighbor Allemande Left 1X (8)

      Promenade Across (8)

B1  Mad Robin {ladies to inside first} (8)

      Ladies Dos-Si-Dos 1 1/2 (8)

B2  Partner Balance and Swing (16)

C1  Right and Left Through (8)

      Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8)

C2  Full Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (8)

Look to new neighbors to start the dance over    

At Your Service           by John Coffman    4/12

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos 1 1/4 to short wavy lines {Right hand with Neighbor, Ladies have left hands in Center} (8),

         Balance the Lines {R, L} (4), Swing Through {Neighbor Allemande Right ½, Men Allemande Left ½ } (4)

A2     Partner Swing (16)

B1     1/2 Hey {men pass left shoulders to start} (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

         Circle Left 3/4, Pass Through Up and Down (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors

Notes:  A1: When the short wavy line is complete, all have right hands with their opposite gender neighbor, and ladies have left hands in the middle. All are facing their direction of progression.

Back Row Sitter                           by John Coffman    1/11

Duple, Becket

A1       Left Diagonal Right and Left Through (8)

            Straight Across, Ladies Chain (8)

A2       Left Hand Star 1X  (8)

Old {previous} Neighbor Swing {see notes}(8)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Notes:  All will progress two places with the left diagonal right and left through in A1.  In A2, all will un-progress one place when they swing their old neighbors for a net progression of one forward

To teach the dance, I would have dancers take a hard look at the dancers on their left diagonal – call these dancers their old neighbors, and tell them they will come back to them.  Now, have dancers do a left diagonal right and left through with these old neighbors.

In A1, the ladies chain is with the neighbors now across from you. 

The Old Neighbor Swing in A2 is with the neighbor dancers did the left diagonal right and left through with.

End Effects: Dancers are never really out in this dance.  If a couple finds themselves alone after the left diagonal right and left through, they should stand out with the lady on the right (as in most duple improper dances) so they can be ready for the old {previous} neighbor swing.  When waiting for the left diagonal right and left through, dancers should position themselves accordingly.

Bad Hair Day     by John Coffman    5/13

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Right Hand Balance and Box the Gnat (8)

           ½ Hey {men pass LEFT shoulders to start} (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

           Partner Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines forward and back (8)

           Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 to face new neighbors} (8)

Balance the Books      by John Coffman    2/12

Duple, Improper, 3 Part Dance for 3 Part Tunes {AABCC format}

A1      Neighbor Right Hand Balance (4), Box the Gnat (8)

          Right Hand Star 1X {wrist hold star} (8)            

A2      Right and Left Through (8) 

          Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1      Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2      Long Lines Forward and Back (8) 

          Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

C1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

C2     Square Through Four {with balances} (16)  

Notes: Square Through Four starts with right hand balance with partner across set – pull by and turn to face neighbor to pull by with left hands. Then right hand balance partner and pull by; face neighbor again to pull by with left hands to face a new neighbor (to start dance over). 

Bashful Bachelor                      by John Coffman                1/11

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Allemande Right 1 ½  (8)

            ½ Hey {Men pass LEFT shoulders to start} (8)

A2       Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

Partner Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines (8)

Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

Progress to new neighbors to start dance over.

Basket of Grapes                 by John Coffman        12/14/18

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Neighbor Box the Gnat, Men Allemande Left 1/2, Partner Swing   (16)

A2       Balance the Ring, Ladies Pull Men to Their Side for a Neighbor Swing {on ladies original side}  (16)

B1       Circle Left 1X  (8)

            Partner Dos-Si-Dos {across set}

B2       Square Through Four {with balances - start with right hands with your partner}  (16),

Start dance over with new neighbors

Note: There is NO BALANCE before the box the gnat in A1.

Be My Heroine     by John Coffman               10//12, Revised 12/13

Duple, Improper

 A1     Start Dance in Long Wavy Lines, Men Face Out, Current Neighbor in Right Hand, Past Neighbor in Left Hand

         Balance the Lines {R,L} (4), Slide Right as in Rory O' More (4)

         Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)         

A2     Men Dos-Si-Dos 1X  (6)   

         Neighbor Swing (10)         

B1    Balance the Ring (4) Ladies Pull their Men (Partner) to their Side and Swing (12)

B2    Right and Left Through (8)

        Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8)

Form long wavy lines with past neighbor in left hand, next neighbor in right hand

Hero Variation:

B1    Balance the Ring (4) Men Pull their Ladies (Partner) to their Side and Swing (12)

B2    Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8)

        Left Hand Star 1X (8)

Beaming Bob Green        by John Coffman     4/11, Revised 12/13

Duple, Improper                                                               {Written for Bob Green}

A1     Neighbor Allemande Right ¾ to form short wavy lines {see notes} (4), Balance the Wave {R,L} (4}

          ½ Hey {Neighbor pass Right shoulders to start – men do slightly more than ½ hey} (8)

A2     Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

          Partner Swing (8)

B2     Long Lines (8)

          Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

Progress to new neighbors to start dance over.

Notes: A1: After the Neighbor Allemande Right ¾, all will end in a short wavy line; men will have left hands in the center, and all will have right hands with their neighbor; all will be facing opposite their direction of progression. During the ½ Hey, ladies will go exactly ½ Hey; men will go slightly more than ½ Hey.

Beating Around the Bush          by John Coffman        1/31/25     

Duple, Improper

 A1      Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

A2       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

              Partner Swing  (8)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

              Balance the Ring, Petronella Twirl one Place to Right  (8)

B2       Partner Left Hand Balance, Swat the Flea  (8)

              Left Hand Star 1X

Start the dance over with new neighbors

Beauty and the Bees      by John Coffman     approx 3/10

(For my lovely wife, Kathy)

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2     Circle Left 1X (8)

         With the Next Neighbors, Circle Right 1X (8)

B1     Back to the First Neighbors, Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Long Lines (8)

         Ladies Chain (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Notes: A2/B1 Circle Left, with Next Circle Right, Back to First Neighbors Circle Left: After the circle left 1X, you are on the side of the set with your neighbor, and your partner is across the set from you. Now, you have one hand with your neighbor - take that hand and give it to your partner. Keep that hand as you turn to face your new neighbors, and make a ring with them. [Using this technique, dancers will be compelled to turn toward their partner as they make the transition.]

End Effects: When dancers transition to their next neighbors during the circles in A2, a couple may get kicked out at the end(s).  This couple should just turn around to face back in, with the lady on the left.  They will then be ready for the circle left 3/4 in B1.  When dancers are truly out, stand out with the lady on the right.

Bob Green came up with the title for this dance.

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/user/johndcoffman#p/u/7/C61hCXQEQBc

or here:  http://dancevideos.childgrove.org/contra/contra-modern/150-beauty-and-the-bees.html

or here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-Yd1vC3Bps&list=UUF_ExFYC6eUgoCdNsFQ0ADg

See it taught here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8mxT0fD4fQ

Becketize the Baby                        by John Coffman           1/12

Duple, Becket            

A1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

Neighbor Swing (8)

A2      New Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

           Ladies Chain {to partner} (8)

 B1      Full Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}(16)

 B2      Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Note: The progression occurs at the top  of A2 when dancers allemande a new neighbor by the left 1 1/2

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaY2jk4YAUI

The Bee Attitudes             by John Coffman       5/16

Duple, Improper

A1      Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2      Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

          Partner Swing (8) 

B1      Circle Left 3/4 (8)

          Neighbor Swing (8)

B2      Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

          Pass Through Across (4), Partial California Twirl to face new neighbor (4)

Alternate B2:

B2      Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

          Right and Left Through (8)

Face New Neighbors to start the dance over.

Bee in Her Bonnet      by John Coffman     3/2012, revised 7/12

(For my lovely wife, Kathy)

Duple, Improper

A1     Circle Left 1/2 (4), Men Roll their Neighbor Lady Away with 1/2 Sashay (4)

         1/2 Hey {men pass left shoulders to start} (8)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (8)

B1     Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8)

         Circle Right 1X (8)

Progress to new neighbors to start dance over.

Notes: B2 to A1 Transition: Circle Right, with Next Circle Left: I really like this flow, but many dancers will need help doing it properly.  I will sometimes have dancers take hands in a ring, but not go anyplace. Then drop hands, and turn to make a ring with their next neighbors. I might have them practice this a couple of times before doing it with the circles, and most come to understand that the easy (smooth) way to turn is to the inside toward your partner as you make the transition. I recently read of an even better teaching tip. After the circle right 1X, you are on the side of the set with your neighbor, and your partner is across the set from you. Now, you have one hand with your neighbor - take that hand and give it to your partner. Now, keep that hand as you turn to face your new neighbors, and make a ring with them. [Using this technique, dancers will be compelled to turn toward their partner as they make the transition.]

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mUKzJd6jpM&list=UUF_ExFYC6eUgoCdNsFQ0ADg

The Bee Whisperer             by John Coffman       4/11

Duple, Improper

A1      Neighbor Right Hand Balance (4), Box the Gnat  (4)

          Right Hand Star 1X {wrist hold star} (8)

A2      Men Turn In, Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1      Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

          Partner Swing (8)

B2        Promenade across (8)

             Ladies Chain (8)

Face New Neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes:  The transition to New Neighbors {after the ladies chain} is much smoother for the men if they turn to the inside {toward their partner} as they turn to face their new neighbor.  A ladies twirl on the ladies chain also works well {for ladies that want to twirl}

The Beekeeper                           by John Coffman     Re-Written 12/10

Duple, Becket, COUNTERCLOCKWISE

A1       Circle Left ¾  (8)

Long Lines Forward and Back, Men Roll their Neighbor Ladies Away with ½ Sashay as they back up from the Long Lines (8)

 A2      Circle Right ¾ (8)

Allemande Partner Left 1 ½ (8)

  B1     Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

Star Left ¾  (8)

  B2     Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

The dance starts over with the neighbors now across from you.

Notes: I have not called or danced this dance; I am not sure about the flow.  It might be helpful to help dancers identify their shadows.  Before teaching the dance, have dancers line up in Becket formation and make long lines; in one hand is their partner; in the other hand is their shadow.  Your shadow will be across from you after the left diagonal ladies chain in B1.  The Star Left ¾ in B1 is with your neighbor and your shadow.

All should look for their partner when completing the Star Left ¾ in B1.

Bees in a Becket       by John Coffman           approx 4/10, Reivised 7/13

Duple, Becket - COUNTERCLOCKWISE

A1        Right and Left Through {with the couple across} (8)

            Left Diagonal Ladies Chain {to new neighbor } (8)

 A2       Ladies Allemande Right 1X {back to neighbort} (8)

            Neighbor Swing {do not swing shadow} (8)

 B1       Long Lines forward and back (8)

            Left Hand Star 3/4  (8)

 B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Notes: It might be helpful to help dancers identify their shadows; in Becket formation, have dancers make long lines; in one hand is their partner; in the other hand is their shadow.  The 1/2 hey in A2 will be with shadow and new neighbor.

If waiting out on ends for your partner to balance and swing, stand out with the lady on the left

Beeswax                 by John Coffman                10/10

Duple, Becket

A1       Left Diagonal Right and Left Through  (8)

            With the couple now across from you, Left Hand Star ¾  {hands across star}(8)

A2      Men turn out {over right shoulder}, Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1      Left Diagonal Ladies Chain {to shadow}(8)

Circle Right 1X  (8)

B2      Pass through up and down, Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Notes: I have not yet called or danced Beeswax.  It might be helpful to help dancers identify their shadows; in Becket formation, have dancers make long lines; in one hand is your partner; in the other hand is your shadow.

In A1: With the left diagonal right and left through, all will progress two places clockwise {to their left}.

In B1: With the left diagonal ladies chain, the ladies will unprogress one place.

In B2: With the pass through up and down, men will unprogress one place.  After the partner balance and swing, couples should be across from the same couple they did the right and left through with in A1.

If waiting out on ends for your partner to balance and swing, stand out with the lady on the left

Beeswax Light                        by John Coffman           10/10

Duple, Becket            

A1       Left Diagonal Right and Left Through  (8)

Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

A2      Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

 B1      Left Diagonal Ladies Chain {to shadow}(8)

Circle Right 1X  (8)

 B2      Pass through up and down, Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Notes: I have not yet called or danced Beeswax Light {an easier version of Beeswax}.  It might be helpful to help dancers identify their shadows; in Becket formation, have dancers make long lines; in one hand is your partner; in the other hand is your shadow.

A1: With the left diagonal right and left through, all will progress two places clockwise {to their left}.

B1: With the left diagonal ladies chain, the ladies will unprogress one place.

B2: With the pass through up and down, men will unprogress one place. After the partner balance and swing, couples should be across from the same couple they did the right and left through with in A1.

If waiting out on ends for your partner to balance and swing, stand out with the lady on the left

Behind Closed Doors      by John Coffman     2/2012

Duple, Improper

A1     Mad Robin {men to inside first}  (8)

         Men Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

A2     Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Swing  (8)

B2     Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

         Right and Left Through  (8)

Progress to new neighbors to start dance over.

Alternate B1: Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

                      Neighbor Swing (8)

Notes: The Mad Robin in A1 is similar to a left shoulder Dos-Si-Dos {See-Saw}, except dancers look at their partner across the set while executing the move.  That is, dancers look at their partner as they move around their neighbor in a counter-clockwise direction.

Belly Button Diversity Project      by John Coffman     5/2013

Duple, Improper

A1     Mad Robin {men to inside first}  (8)

         Men Allemande Right 1/2  (3), Partner Allemande Left 1/2 (3), Ladies Allemande Right 1/2 (2)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1     Circle Left 3/4  (8)

         Partner Swing  (8)

B2     Long Lines Forward and Back - on the way back out, Men Roll their Lady Partner Away with 1/2 Sashay  (8)

         Right Hand Star 3/4  (8)

Progress to new neighbors to start dance over.

Notes: The Mad Robin in A1 is similar to a left shoulder Dos-Si-Dos {See-Saw}, except dancers look at their partner across the set while executing the move.  That is, dancers look at their partner as they move around their neighbor in a counter-clockwise direction.

Between the Stars         by John Coffman     9/6/25

Duple,  Improper

A1      Right Hand Star 1X  (8)

             Mad Robin {ladies to the inside to start}  (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Partner Swing  (8)

B2       Ladies Chain {to neighbor}  (8)

              Left Hand Star 1X   (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Note: Use wrist hold stars. 

Betwixt and Between          by John Coffman        8/7/25     

Duple, Improper

 A1      Right Hand Star 3/4 (8)

             Right and Left Through  (8)

A2       Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

              Neighbor Swing  (8)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

              Partner Swing  (8)

B2       Neighbor Left Hand Balance, Swat the Flea  (8)

              Left Hand Star 3/4

Start the dance over with new neighbors

Note: In A1, men can give a little tug on their neighbor lady's wrist to pull into the right and left through

The Big Chit Chat                  by John Coffman  12/10

Duple, Becket, Counterclockwise

A1       Ladies Chain  (8)

Promenade Up/Down Set {see notes} (8)

A2      Lady walks forward and weaves to inside of man directly in front WHILE man rolls out over right shoulder to

           meet the lady immediately behind him {the lady does NOT pass the man in front of her during the

           promenade – she weaves TO this man} (2) and Swing this neighbor (14) {see notes}

B1       Take hands in one large oval {Everbody in the line holds hands – I call this a Chainsaw}, and {big} circle

             (Chainsaw) to the Left (8)

Ladies look for the lady that just swung your partner, these ladies allemande right 1 ½ to their partner (8)

 B2      Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

Notes: In A1, after the ladies chain, have dancers face up and down the set in promenade position with men’s left shoulder to the center.

To teach A2, I would have dancers pause after they promenade. While still in promenade position, have ladies identify their next neighbor, who is the man directly in front of them.  I like to use the word “weave” to have the ladies move to the inside of her next neighbor man while this same neighbor (man) rolls out over his right shoulder to the outside; however, the word (weave) may imply to some that she is to pass the man in front – not so.  She simply walks to his inside while he rolls back to her outside.

I like use the words “chainsaw left” to prompt the big oval circle left because the dance will flow more nicely if the lines do not move too far apart.  I like to tell the men they can point the lady he just swung (now on his personal right) to his partner for the ladies allemande right 1 ½.

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfMhaXCZY0E&feature=related

 or here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qo3Tw3cemTw

This is dance is not very original, as it is similar to Gene Hubert's Gang of Four.

Big Mike's Triple Decker                   by John Coffman    5/10/18

Duple, Becket

A1       Circle Left 1/2 (4)  Ladies Roll Partner Man Away with 1/2 Sashay (4)

            1/2 Hey {Ladies pass LEFT shoulders to start} (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Balance the Ring (4) Ladies Pull Partner Partner Man to Ladies' side to Swing  (12)

Slide Left with Partner to start the dance over with new neighbors.

Notes: In A1, Ladies Roll Partner Man away with 1/2 Sashay (man rolls in front of lady)

Billy Bob's Favorite Customer                   by John Coffman    5/29/18

Duple, Becket

A1       Ladies Chain to a Short Wavy Line {Ladies have Right hands in Center; all have Left hands with Neighbor - see notes} (8)

            Balance the Wave {R,L} (4), {Ladies} Slide Right as in Rory O'Moore (4)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Full Hey {Men pass Left shoulders to start} (16)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Slide Left with Partner to start the dance over with new neighbors.

Notes: In A1, Ladies Chain to a short wavy line: Ladies do slightly more than a full courtesy turn to end up in short wavy lines with Ladies connecting Right hands in the center of the short wavy line.

Birds and Bees     by John Coffman    10/11

Duple, Improper

A1    Mad Robin {men to inside first - see notes} (8)

         1/2 Hey {men pass Right shoulders to start} (8)

A2    Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1    Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2    Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

         Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2

Start the dance over with men going to the inside on a "mad robin" with new neighbors.

Notes:  In B2, Ladies allemande Right  1 1/2, then move to the outside of their new neighbor man to start a mad robin with these new neighbors.  Men start the mad robin by passing to the inside first.  Ladies start the mad robin by walking to the outside of her new neighbor man and looping back in over her left shoulder.

Birds of a Feather                   by John Coffman    approx 3/10

Duple, Improper

A1       Promenade Across {men pass left shoulders; see notes} (8)

            Mad Robin {ladies on inside first} (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B2       Ladies Allemande Right 1 ½ to Face New Neighbors (8)

           With These New Neighbors, Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

Notes:  The progression takes place in B2.  To teach the dance, I would tell dancers you are starting at the end.  Have dancers allemande their neighbor left 1 ½ to exchange places with their neighbor; then all will be in place to promenade across with men passing left shoulders.

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNLQ1J6MQGo

or here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRvKi93nzOw

Blabbermouth      by John Coffman     12/13

Becket

A1     Long Lines (8)

         Circle Left 1X (8)

A2     Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

         Right and Left Through {across - see notes} (8)

B1     HANDS ACROSS Left Hand Star 1X (8)

         Ladies push off and loop out over their right shoulder WHILE Men Allemande Left 1 1/2

B2     Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

Notes: When in Becket, have dancers look at their partner; shadow is beyond partner.

In A2, after the left diagonal ladies chain, shadow is across from you.  For this dance, I would encourage dancers to do the right and left through across in A2 without the right hand pull-by.  That is, I would encourage dancers to pass through across and courtesy turn the lady - this will make the dance flow more smoothly for the men.

Black Swan        by John Coffman      2/12

Duple, Improper (3 part dance) AABCC

A1  Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos 1X {to long wavy lines with men facing out} (8)

       Balance the Line {R,L} (4), Slide Right {as in Rory O' Moore} (4)

A2  Neighbor Allemande Left 1X (8)

       Promenade Across (8)

B1  Mad Robin {ladies to inside first} (8)

       Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

C1  Partner Balance and Swing (16)

C2  Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Spin 1 Place to the Right

       Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl (4)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over.

Blah Blah Blah                    by John Coffman     3/15

Duple, Becket

A1       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           Circle Left 1X (8)

A2       Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

           Left Hand Star 3/4 (8)

B1       Partner Right Hand Balance, Square Through Two (8)

           Partner Dos-Si-Dos (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

,

Notes:  In Becket formation, shadow is beyond partner.  In A2, after the left diagonal ladies chain, your shadow is across from you.

End Effects:  When standing out with partner, position yourself to re-enter the dance with the left diagonal ladies chain.  When standing out with SHADOW, stand out with the lady on the left, and re-enter the dance with the square through two.

Bob & Martha's Excellent Adventure                 by John Coffman        11/12

Duple, Becket   3 Part Dance for 3 Part Tune AABCC Format    {Written for Bob Green and Martha Edwards}

A1      Circle Left 1X (8)

           Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

A2      Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (16)

B1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

C1        Right and Left Through; Men Roll {their Neighbor}Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay  (8)

            Star Right 3/4 (8)

C2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Start the dance over with the neighbors now across from you.

Notes: It might be helpful to introduce dancers to their shadow before teaching the dance.  While in Becket formation, have dancers face their partner; their shadow is beyond their partner.

After the left diagonal ladies chain in A1, your shadow is across from you.

Bob’s Beef             by John Coffman     5/30/17

Duple, Becket                                                                           {Written for Bob Green}

A1      Circle Right 5/4 (8)

          Zag Right (2), Zig Left (2) to meet new neighbors {see notes}, With these new neighbors, Circle Left ½ (4)

A2     Ladies Turn In, Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1     Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

          Partner Swing (8)

B2      Ladies Chain (8)

          Ladies Chain (8)

          The dance starts over with these same neighbors.

Notes: The progression takes place in A1.  The Zag and Zig is done by holding inside hands with your partner {man’s right joined to lady’s left}; couples move {Zag} to their individual right with men passing left shoulders as they move past their current neighbors.  Then all move {Zig} to their individual left to come face to face with new neighbors.

Bob’s Good & Plenty                by John Coffman     2/11  

Duple, Becket, COUNTERCLOCKWISE                      {Written for Bob Green}

A1    Right Diagonal Ladies Chain and keep left hands after the courtesy turn{see notes}  (8)

        Pull by with left hands to next Neighbor; with this next Neighbor, Allemande Right 1X to

        return to the first Neighbor {see notes}(8)

A2   First Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1   Right and Left Through {across} (8)

        Left Hand Star 3/4 (8)

B2    Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Notes: It might be helpful to have dancers identify their shadow before teaching the dance.  While standing next to your partner in becket formation, have dancers take hands in long lines.  Your partner is in one hand; your shadow is in the other hand. 

B1: All should look for their partner when completing the Left Hand Star ¾.

Bob’s High Quality Bologna             by John Coffman     3/11

Duple, Improper                                                                           {Written for Bob Green}

A1      Circle Right 1X

          Zag Right (2), Zig Left (2) to meet new neighbors {see notes}, With these new neighbors, Circle Left ½ (4)

A2     Ladies Turn In, Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1     Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

          Partner Swing (8)

B2      Ladies Chain (8)

          Long Lines Forward and Back; on the way back out, men roll their neighbor lady away with ½ sashay. (8)

          The dance starts over with these same neighbors.

Notes: The progression takes place in A1.  The Zag and Zig is done by holding inside hands with your partner {man’s right joined to lady’s left}; couples move {Zag} to their individual right with men passing left shoulders as they move past their current neighbors.  Then all move {Zig} to their individual left to come face to face with new neighbors.

See a variant (ladies roll men away) danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFaXbhloe-k

Boogaloo Bugaboo         by John Coffman                     2/11

Duple, Becket

A1    Left Diagonal Ladies Chain  (8)

         Left Hand Star 1X (8)

A2    Ladies Turn Out, Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1      Right and Left Through {across} (8)

           Men Roll their Neighbor Ladies Away with ½ Sashay on the side of the set {see notes} (2), Right Hand Star ¾ (6)

 B2      Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Notes: It might be helpful to have dancers identify their shadow before teaching the dance.  While standing next to your partner in becket formation, look at your partner; your shadow is beyond your partner (in the next minor set). 

In A1, after the left diagonal ladies chain, your shadow is across from you.  The neighbor gypsy/swing in A2 is with your neighbor (not your shadow).  [On the ends, if you don’t lose your partner with a left diagonal ladies chain, your partner becomes your neighbor.  That is, the gypsy meltdown is with the same person you end up with after the left diagonal ladies chain.]

In B1, after the right and left through, men roll the ladies away with ½ sashay on the side of the set.  [That is, men roll away the same neighbor they did the gypsy/swing with in A2.]

At the end of B1, all should look for their partner coming out of the star Right 3/4

Bounce-Back     by John Coffman           approx 11/09, Revised 5/13

Duple, Improper

A1     As a Couple {holding inside hands with your partner}, Dos-Si-Dos your Neighbors (8)

         Circle Left 1X (8)

A2    Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1     Balance the Ring (4), Men pull partner lady to his side (4)

          Partner Swing (8)

B2     Long Lines (8)

         Men Allemande Left 1X {to pick up partner's inside hand and face the next set of neighbors; men can keep left hands joined as they rotate to face their new neighbors -  man's right hand and lady's left hand are joined} (8)

Notes: This dance has not been tried.  In A1, couples hold inside hands (mens' right joined to ladies' left) as they dos-si-dos their neighbor couple.  You may need to help couples orient at the end of B2; I like to do a demonstration or have a couple demonstrate.  

Bourgeois Chainsaw         by John Coffman     11/4/25

Duple,  Indecent

A1      Chainsaw Promenade with Neighbor {CCW from top, Men have left shoulders to center of set}  (8)

             Ladies Turn Back {Out over Rt. Sh.} to Swing New Neighbor Behind Them  (8)

A2       Chainsaw Promenade Back with New Neighbor Swung in Bottom of A1  {CW from Top, Ladies have R Sh to Ctr}  (8)

              Ladies Look for Partner, Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 Lady that is Promenading with Partner  (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Neighbor Swing {2nd swing with this Neighbor}  (8)  

Notes:

To get into "Indecent " formation, have dancers line up in Improper formation, then have dancers change places with their partner, so the ladies are on the left as they face their current neighbors.

Dancers must get in on the chainsaw promenade; otherwise they will not re-enter the dance.  The progression takes place in the bottom of A1.

When dancers are chainsaw promenading back in A2, Ladies should look for their partner, and identify the lady promenading with their partner.  Ladies should then allemande this lady 1 1/2 to find their partner for a balance and swing.  When dancers find themselves promenading back with their partner in A2, they should promenade to the end of the line; they will be out until they re-enter the dance with the chainsaw promenade in A1.

Bourgeois Chainsaw         by John Coffman     11/4/25

Duple,  Improper, Reverse Progression

A1      Chainsaw Promenade with Neighbor {CCW from top, Men have left shoulders to center of set}  (8)

             Ladies Turn Back {Out over Rt. Sh.} to Swing New Neighbor Behind Them  (8)

A2       Chainsaw Promenade Back with New Neighbor Swung in Bottom of A1  {CW from Top, Ladies have R Sh to Ctr}  (8)

              Ladies Look for Partner, Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 Lady that is Promenading with Partner  (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Neighbor Swing {2nd swing with this Neighbor}  (8)  

Notes:

This dance can be started in "indecent" formation (see dance above), or regular improper formation -  reverse progression (this dance).  

Dancers must get in on the chainsaw promenade; otherwise they will not re-enter the dance.  The progression takes place in the bottom of A1.

When dancers are chainsaw promenading back in A2, Ladies should look for their partner, and identify the lady promenading with their partner.  Ladies should then allemande this lady 1 1/2 to find their partner for a balance and swing.  When dancers find themselves promenading back with their partner in A2, they should promenade to the end of the line; they will be out until they re-enter the dance with the chainsaw promenade in A1.

Bow Legged Cat                     by John Coffman                2/11

Duple, Improper

A1   Neighbor Allemande Right 1 ¼ to make short wavy lines across   {men on outside; all have right hands with neighbor; ladies have

        left hands in center of wavy line} (8)

        Balance the Wave {R, L} (4), Box the Bat {see notes} (4)

A2   ½ Hey {Neighbors pass right shoulders to start – see notes} (8)

        Neighbor Swing (8)

B1   Circle Left ¾ (8)

        Partner Swing (8)

B2    Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

        Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

        Progress to next neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes:  A1: After the neighbor allemande right 1 ¼ , all will end up in a short wavy line across the set; all will have right hands with their neighbor, and ladies will have left hands in the center.  After balancing the line (R, L), ladies should drop left hands, and dancers should box the gnat (bat) from this wavy line position so that men end up back to back in the center facing their neighbor.  Because this is not the usual starting position of box the gnat, I am calling it “box the bat,” and I would demonstrate the move for the dancers.

A2: Ladies do exactly ½ hey; men do slightly more than ½ hey to meet their neighbor (ladies) on the other side to swing.

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSh13NgUNGE&feature=BFa&list=UUF_ExFYC6eUgoCdNsFQ0ADg&lf=plcp

The Boys from Urbana                   by John Coffman   12/11

Duple, Becket

A1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

            Zig Left (2), Zag Right (2) to meet new neighbors; Men Allemande Left 1/2 to face (same new) neighbor (4)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

            Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCpmxejD3Wg

Brainwashed                   by John Coffman   approx 10/10

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Ladies Chain (8)

Mad Robin {ladies on inside first}(8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Circle Left ¾  (6), Pass Through by Right Shoulders to face new neighbors {neighbors #2 - see notes} (2)

Pass this Neighbor {#2} by Left Shoulders {weave}to face the Next neighbor {#3} (2)  Allemande this Neighbor #3 by the Right 1X (6)

Return to neighbor #2 to start dance over {see notes}.

Notes:  The progression takes place in B2/A1. 

B2:  It might be helpful to identify neighbors for the dancers.  After the circle left 3/4, dancers are looking at their current neighbors (neighbors #1).  Beyond these neighbors are neighbors #2.  And beyond Neighbors #2 are Neighbors #3.   After passing through with the current neighbors by right shoulders, dancers will weave past neighbors #2 by left shoulders to face Neighbor #3..  Allemande this neighbor #3 by the right 1X to return to Neighbor #2 to balance and swing.

Brainwashed Becket                       by John Coffman    approx 10/10

Duple, Becket

A1       Circle Left ¾  (6), Pass Through by Right Shoulders to face new neighbor {neighbor #2} (2)

Pass this Neighbor #2 by Left Shoulders {weave}to face the Next neighbor #3 (2)  Allemande this Neighbor #3 by the Right 1X (6))

A2       Neighbor #2 Balance and Swing {see note}(16)

B1       Ladies Chain (8)

Mad Robin {ladies on inside first}(8

B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Start the dance over with the neighbors now across from you.

Notes: This is the same dance as Brainwashed; but it is made becket to avoid starting with a neighbor balance and swing, and so dancers can end with a partner swing..

The progression occurs in A1/A2.

A1:  It might be helpful to identify neighbors for the dancers.  After the circle left 3/4, dancers are looking at their current neighbors (neighbors #1).  Beyond these neighbors are neighbors #2.  And beyond Neighbors #2 are Neighbors #3.   After passing through with the current neighbors by right shoulders, dancers will weave past neighbors #2 by left shoulders to face Neighbor #3..  Allemande this neighbor #3 by the right 1X to return to Neighbor #2 to balance and swing.

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm5mBDhUxq0 

See it taught here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qc6RvUSYgNE

Brenda's Balance with Nature         by John Coffman     9/22/25

Duple,  Improper

A1      Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

             Ladies Chain {to partner}  (8)

A2       Left Hand Star 3/4  (6)

              Men Turn Out {back} over Right Shoulder, Neighbor Swing  (10)

B1       Balance the Ring, Ladies Pull Partner Man to Ladies' Side to Swing  (16)

B2       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2 to find New Neighbors.  (8)  

Brenda's Walk in the Park         by John Coffman     9/2/25

Duple,  Becket

A1      Right and Left Through  (8)

             Circle Right 3/4  (8)

A2       Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2  {to find new neighbors} (8)

              New Neighbor Swing  (8)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

              Ladies Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

Note: The progression takes place in A2 with the Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2  

Alternate B1:

                    Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

                Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

Brenda's Walk on the Wild Side         by John Coffman     9/2/25

Duple,  Becket

A1      Right and Left Through  (8)

             Circle Right 3/4  (8)

A2       Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2  {to find new neighbors} (8)

              New Neighbor Swing  (8)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Partner Dos-Si-Dos 1X  (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

Note: The progression takes place in A2 with the Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2  

Bubbles in the Tub     by John Coffman    approx 10/09

Duple, Becket

A1     Circle Left ¾ (6), Men Roll Neighbor Lady Away with a Half Sashay on the side of the set (4),

         Ladies Allemande Right 1X in the middle to return to Neighbor (6)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

         Pass Through to an Ocean Wave (4), Balance the Wave (4)

B2     Swing Through {Neighbor Allemande Right ½, Men Allemande Left ½ }(4), Partner Swing (12)

         Slide Left with Partner to Next Neighbors

Notes: This dance is not recommended for inexperienced dancers or novice callers. Timing is tight in A1; I encourage dancers to think of the circle left/roll away as one fluid move. After the men roll their neighbor ladies away, the man should have the lady’s left hand in his right hand. I like to encourage the men to give the ladies a little tug to help them into the ladies’ allemande right.

In B1, the Pass Through to an Ocean Wave is achieved by passing right shoulders with the person (partner) across the set; as women pass left shoulders with each other, they take left hands in an allemande grip and turn ¼ to make a short wavy line across the set. When the short wavy line is complete, all have right hands with their opposite gender neighbor, and ladies have left hands in the middle. All are facing OPPOSITE their direction of progression.

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahlAzEanZ9U&list=UUF_ExFYC6eUgoCdNsFQ0ADg  

Busy as a Bee      by John Coffman   approx 3/10, Revised 12/11

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         1/2 Hey {Ladies Pass Right Shoulders to Start} (8)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Right and Left Through, and Men Roll the Lady {partner} Away with 1/2 Sashay (10)

         Right Hand Star 3/4 (6)

         Face New Neighbors to start the dance over

Busybodies      by John Coffman          4/11; Revised 6/17/18

Duple, Improper

A1    Circle Right 1X  (8)

        Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

A2    ½ Hey {partners pass right shoulders to start – see notes} (8)

        Partner Swing (8)

B1    Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B2    Mad Robin (men inside first - clockwise looking from the ceiling) (8)

         WITH NEW NEIGHBORS Mad Robin (men inside first - counterclockwise looking from the ceiling) (8)

Progression takes place in B2          

Notes: A busy dance; not recommended for inexperienced dancers. The circle right into the men allemande left 1 ½ is unusual; inexperienced dancers may become disoriented.

When teaching:  After the men allemande left 1 ½, I would have the men stand back to back in the center, looking at their partner.  During the ½ Hey, ladies will do exactly ½ Hey; men will do slightly more than ½ Hey.

Butterbump     by John Coffman               11/12

Duple, Improper

A1     Start Dance in Long Wavy Lines, Men Face Out, Current Neighbor in Right Hand, Past Neighbor in Left Hand

         Balance the Lines {R,L} (4), Slide Right as in Rory O' More (4)

         Neighbor Allemande Left 1X (8)         

A2    Ladies Right Shoulder Gypsy 1X (8)         

        Neighbor Swing 1X (8)         

B1    Circle Left 3/4 (8)

        Partner Swing (8)

B2    Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8)

        Left Hand Star 1X (8)

Form long wavy lines with past neighbor in left hand, next neighbor in right hand

Alternate A2:  Ladies Dos-Si-Dos 1X (8)         

                     Neighbor Swing 1X (8)

Butter Her Up      by John Coffman    5/9/17

Duple, Becket

A1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Zig Left (2), Zag Right (2) to meet new neighbors; Men Allemande Left 1/2 to face (same new) neighbor (4)

A2     Full Hey {neighbors pass right shoulders to start} (16)

B1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B2     Balance the Ring, Men Pull Partner Lady to His {original} Side to Swing (16)

See it danced here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iE2FiGO2_Rc

By Hook or by Crook                 by John Coffman        12/12/18

Duple, Becket                     

 A1      Promenade Across {with partner} and Hook Left to Get Across from New Neighbors  (8)

              1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}  (8)

 A2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Neighbor Swing  (8)

 B2       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

                Ladies Chain {to partner}  (8)

Start dance over by promenading across current neighbors and hooking left to get across from new neighbors

The Calico Girls      by John Coffman    approx 3/10, modified 1/11

Duple, Improper

A1     As a Couple {holding inside hands with your partner}, Dos-Si-Dos your Neighbors (8)

         Circle Left 1X (8)

A2     Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1     Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right (4)

         Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl to face new neighbors and start dance over (4)

 Notes: In A1, couples hold inside hands (mens' right joined to ladies' left) as they dos-si-dos their neighbor couple.

Camden's Cap            by John Coffman                    11/11

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

Partner Swing (8)

B1        Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

            Cross Trails Through (8)

Notes: In B2, Cross Trails Through: pass through across, ladies turn left as the men turn right; the lady passes in front of the man as both walk to meet their new neighbor to start the dance over.

Camden's Cap and Gown       by John Coffman                    11/11

Duple, Improper

A1       Full Hey {men pass LEFT shoulders to start - See Notes} (16)

A2       Men pull by with left hands, Partner Swing (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

            Cross Trails Through (4), Gypsy NEW Neighbor 1/2 so men face in (4).

Notes: Teach this dance by starting at the end;  That is, have Neighbors Gypsy 1/2 so Neighbors have traded places and Men face in; then dancers will be in position to start the hey.  In B2, Cross Trails Through: pass through across, ladies turn left as the men turn right; the lady passes in front of the man as both walk to meet their new neighbor to start the dance over.  The Progression takes place in the last 4 counts of B2. 

See it taught here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YO0v0jW7vQ

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3HzbmMrfiY

Capaha Park Scavenger         by John Coffman     12/10/23

Duple,  Improper

A1      Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

               Partner Dos-Si-Dos  (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Neighbor Right Hand Balance {across set}, Box the Gnat  (8)

              Right Hand Star 3/4  (8)

Start dance over with new neighbors

Captain Hook's Crocodile Casserole                 by John Coffman        12/12/18

Duple, Becket                     

A1      Promenade Across {with partner} and Hook Left to Get Across from New Neighbors  (8)

           Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

            Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8) 

B2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16),

Alternate A1:

A1      Promenade Across {with partner} and Hook Left to Get Across from New Neighbors  (8)

           Ladies Dos-Si-Dos 1 1/2  (8)

Alternate B1:

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

            Men Allemande RIGHT 1 1/2  (8) 

Note: The progression takes place in A1 when dancers promenade across and hook left with their partner to get across from new neighbors.

Captain Kirk’s Halibut      by John Coffman  approx 9/08

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2     Hands Across Star Left 1X (8)

         Ladies keep left hands to Allemande Left 1 ½ WHILE the Men push off and Loop over their own right shoulder (8)

B1     Partner Gypsy and Swing {meltdown} (16)

B2     Long Lines forward and back (8)

         Ladies Chain across (8)

Notes: In my experience, the men loop right needs to be demonstrated with an emphasis on using about 8 beats of music.  Otherwise, men tend to stand around waiting on their partner.

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukIGaOiDTnM

or here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8N7iyoHEArM

Cards on the Table       by John Coffman                    5/13

Duple, Improper

A1    Start dance in long wavy lines, men face out.  Balance the Lines, R,L (4), Slide Right as in Rory O' More (4)

         Neighbor Allemande Left 1X (6),  Ladies Allemande Right 1/2 (2)

A2    Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1    Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B2    Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right (4)

         Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right {with a little extra twirl} to meet new neighbors and start

         dance over (4)

Form long wavy lines with past neighbor in left hand, next neighbor in right hand

See it danced here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdpOi0YKPNY

Cat Tales         by John Coffman     3/24/19

Duple,  Becket

A1      Circle Left 3/4  (8)

             Neighbor Swing  (8)

A2       Pass Partner by Right Shoulders Across Set, California Twirl to Face Back In  (8)

              Ladies Chain {to partner}  (8)

B1       1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}  (8)

              Mad Robin {ladies to inside to start}  (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

Slide Left to start dance over with new neighbors

Celestial Navigation     by John Coffman    approx 3/10

Duple, Becket     Revised 9/14/2010

A1     Circle Left ¾ (6), Men Roll Neighbor Lady Away with ½ Sashay on the side of the set (2) Men Allemande Left 1 ½ WHILE Ladies

         Orbit clockwise ½ way to cross to the other side of the set to meet her Neighbor. {see notes} (8)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Ladies Chain (8)

         ½ Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (8)

B2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Slide Left with Partner to meet next Neighbors

Notes: After the men roll their neighbor lady away in A1, The man’s right hand will be holding his neighbor’s left hand. Ask the man to keep that connection as he takes left hands with his neighbor man in the center. Ask the men to give a little tug to his neighbor lady’s hand to start her on her clockwise orbit. {Men and ladies travel in different directions as the ladies orbit – the ladies travel clockwise while the men travel counter-clockwise.} As ladies orbit, they will come face to face with another lady from the next minor set. Though it is counter-intuitive, the ladies should pass RIGHT shoulders with the lady she meets. {No real harm is done if she passes left shoulders, but she will arrive at her destination early.} The sequence in A1 also occurs in "Venus and Mars."

Chains of Love     by John Coffman               11/12

Duple, Improper

A1     Start Dance in Long Wavy Lines, Men Face Out, Current Neighbor in Right Hand, Past Neighbor in Left Hand

         Balance the Lines {R,L} (4), Slide Right as in Rory O' More (4)

         Neighbor Allemande Left 1X (8)         

A2    Ladies Chain {to partner} (8)   

        Ladies Dos-Si-Dos 1X (8)         

B1    Partner Balance and Swing (12)

B2    Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8)

        Left Hand Star 1X (8)

Form long wavy lines with past neighbor in left hand, next neighbor in right hand

Cheeseburger          by John Coffman    Approx 9/12

Circle Mixer

A1       Ladies into the Middle, then face out to make a Long

            Wavy {continuous} Line {or circle with Men facing in, Ladies facing out,

             current partner is in right hand} (8)

             Balance the Lines {R,L} (4), Slide Right as in Rory O' More (4)

A2       New Neighbor Balance and Swing {this neighbor becomes

            your new partner} (16)

B1       Promenade Counterclockwise {men have left shoulders to center} (16)

B2       Circle Right (16)

Notes: An easy circle mixer dance to teach Rory O'More.

Looking from the ceiling, men progress counterclockwise; ladies progress clockwise.

Chicken on a Leash     by John Coffman    9/11

Duple, Improper

A1    Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

A2    Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1    Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B2    Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right (4)

         Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right {with a little extra twirl} to face new

         neighbors and start the dance over (4)

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXz_RYOBKBk&feature=g-all

The Chicks are Here       by Kathy Coffman                    3/11

Duple, Becket – COUNTERCLOCKWISE

A1       Balance the Ring (4) Petronella Spin 1 Place to Right (4)

Balance the Ring (4) California Twirl to Face New Neighbors (4)

A2       With these New Neighbors, Circle Left 1/2 (4), Neighbor Swing (12)

B1       Right and Left Through {across} (8)

Men Roll their Neighbor Ladies Away with ½ Sashay on the side of the set {see notes} (2), Right Hand Star ¾ (6)

B2       Men Turn In, Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

Notes: In B1, after the right and left through, men roll the ladies away with ½ sashay on the side of the set.  [That is, men roll away the same neighbor they did the  neighbor swing with in A2.]

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECHnRH8ma7Q

The Collective     by John Coffman    approx 3/10

Duple, Improper

A1     As a Couple, Dos-Si-Dos Neighbors (8)

         Circle Left 1X (8)

A2     Ladies Curl In to stand back to back in the middle facing their Neighbor. Pass Neighbor by Right Shoulders to start ½ Hey.

         {Men do exactly ½ Hey, Ladies do slightly more than ½ Hey} (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Long Lines (8)

         Men Allemande Left 1X {to pick up partner's inside hand and face the next set of neighbors - man's right hand

         and lady's left hand are joined} (8)

Notes: You may need to help couples orient at the end of B2; I like to do a demonstration or have a couple demonstrate. The ladies curl at the top of A2 sets up the 1/2 hey that follows. I like to tell dancers that as they come out of the circle left 3/4, men should give the ladies a little tug {as they would do when rolling the ladies away - but you only do a partial roll away so the ladies end up back to back in the middle. That is, men roll the ladies away about 1/4 so the ladies end up back to back in the middle. {I like to instruct men to put their right hand in their pocket as I teach the curl (or ¼ roll away) figure. If men attempt to use their right hand (and many may), it will make this smooth figure clunky.} During the actual dance, this should happen fluidly, and the ladies don't actually have to line up exactly, back to back with each other.

This dance features a circle left 1X in A1, and a circle left ¾ in B1.  It is easy for dancers to confuse these two circles and become disoriented.  So, it is important to be clear in the teaching.  And I recommend prompting that tells dancers how far to circle (e.g, “circle left three places,” or “circle left all the way,” or “circle left once around,” etc.

Come What May      by John and Kathy Coffman     10/13

Counterclockwise Becket

A1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos (8)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (8)

B1     Left Diagonal Ladies Chain {to shadow} (8)

         HANDS ACROSS Left Hand Star 3/4 (8)

B2     Keep left hands joined, Balance the Star (4)  Ladies Let Go {push off and turn back over right shoulder},

         Men Keep Left Hands to pull Across to Partner for a Partner Swing (12)

Teaching Note: When in Becket, have dancers hold hands in long lines; partner is in one hand, shadow is in the other hand.

Communist Plot                      by John Coffman       approx 10/10

Duple, Improper

A1       ½ Hey {men pass left shoulders to start}(8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

A2       Men Pull Across with Left Hands (2), Partner Allemande Right 1X (6), Men Pull Across with Left Hands (1), Neighbor Allemande Right 1X (6), Men Pull Across with Left Hands (1)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Ladies Chain (8)

With New Neighbors, Allemande Right 1 ½ (8)

Notes:  New dance; not sure of flow in B2; I recommend teaching this dance by starting at the bottom of B2; that is, have dancers allemande their neighbor right 1 ½ so men are in correct position to start the ½ hey.  I would also be sure to tell dancers that you are actually starting {the teaching} at the end so they will be in correct position to start the dance.  After the walk through, dancers should be in correct position to start the dance.  That is, dancers will have exchanged places with their opposite gender neighbors after the new neighbor allemande right in B2 – this will put the men in correct position to start the ½ hey by passing left shoulders as they will when the dance/music begins.

Company Man                    by John Coffman     4/12

Duple, Improper

A1       1/2 Ricochet Hey {men to inside first} (8)

           Men Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8) 

A2      Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

           Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Ladies Chain {to partner}, Men Roll their {partner} Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay (8)

           Star Right 3/4 (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Congress of Bunkbeds      by John Coffman     approx 6/10, Revised 7/13

Duple, Improper

A1        Star Through, Circle Right 1X (10) 

            Neighbor Allemande Left 1X (6)

A2        Ladies Chain {to partner} (8)

            1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}  (8) 

B1        Partner Balance and Swing (16) 

B2        Long Lines forward and back (8) 

            Men Dos-Si-Dos 1 1/2 to face new neighbors (2) 

Alternate:

B2:       Long Lines forward and back (8) 

            Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 to face new neighbors (2) 

Notes: In A1, “star through” is man’s right hand to lady’s left hand; lady walks under man’s raised right hand; both finish the star through trading places and facing across the set.

Contra Bass Joe      by John Coffman     4/12/18

Duple, Improper                             Written for Joe Surdyk

A1        Neighbor Balance and Swing (16) 

A2        1/2 Hey to a Short Wavy Line {men pass Left shoulders to start - SEE NOTES} (8) 

            Balance the Wave {R,L} (4)  Slide Right  as in Rory O'Moore {Men Slide 2 Places - SEE NOTES} (4)

B1        Partner Balance and Swing (16) 

B2        Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

            Ladies Chain {to neighbor}

Notes: A2: 1/2 Hey to a short wavy line - Men to a 1/2 hey; ladies do slightly less than 1/2 hey; ladies catch left hands in the center after they pass each other; all end up with right hands with neighbor; ladies have left hands in the center; all are facing opposite their direction of progression; dancers end up in the same formation they would if they had done a pass through to an ocean wave.

A2: Balance the wave {R,L}, and slide right - men slide 2 places to meet their partner  

Cool Your Jets      by John Coffman     4/12

Duple, Improper

A1        Ladies Allemande Right 3/4 (4) 

            Neighbor Swing (12)

A2        Right and Left Through (8) 

            Circle Left 3/4 (8)

B1        Partner Gypsy and Swing (16) 

B2        Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right (4)

            Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl to face new neighbors and start dance over (4)

Alternate:  To make the dance easier for beginners, consider replacing  the Right and Left Through in A2 with a Promenade.

Notes: When teaching A1, it might be helpful to coach the men to take a step forward as the ladies allemande right {so the neighbor swing flows smoothly.}

Counterbalance     by John Coffman    approx 2/10

Duple, Becket – COUNTERCLOCKWISE

A1     Right Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

         1/2 Hey Across {Ladies Pass Right Sh} (8)

A2     Ladies Right Shoulder Gypsy {1X back to neighbor} (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B1     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

         Left Hand Star 3/4 (8)

B2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Notes: It is important to help dancers identify their shadow. After taking hands four, have dancers start by taking hands in long lines - in one hand is their partner, in the other hand is their shadow.

In A1, all will lose their partner and their current neighbor with the right diagonal ladies chain. The person you Right Diagonal Chain to is your new neighbor. After the right diagonal ladies chain, your shadow is across from you in your current group of four. The 1/2 hey in A1 is with this new neighbor and your shadow.

In A2, Ladies gypsy 1X to return to neighbor (not shadow) for a neighbor swing.

In B2, Ladies may need to turn around to find their male partner behind them for a Partner Balance and Swing.  (Hopefully, ladies will spot their partner as they are completing the left hand star.) 

End Effects: On ends, your partner may become your neighbor. Also, when your partner is in a different star and you are waiting out for the Partner Balance and Swing, stand out with the lady on the left, man on the right.

Counterweight                by John Coffman    approx 2/10

Duple, Becket – COUNTERCLOCKWISE

A1       Right Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

1/2 Hey Across {Ladies Pass Right Sh} (8)

A2       Ladies Right Shoulder Gypsy  {1X back to neighbor} (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

            Left Hand Star 3/4 (8)

B2       Partner Gypsy Meltdown (16)

Notes: This is really just a minor variation of “Counterbalance.”  It is important to help dancers identify their shadow.  After taking hands four, have dancers start by taking hands in long lines - in one hand is their partner, in the other hand is their shadow.

In A1, all will lose their partner and their current neighbor with the right diagonal ladies chain.  The person you Right Diagonal Chain to is your new neighbor.  After the right diagonal ladies chain, your shadow is across from you in your current group of four.  The 1/2 hey in A1 is with this new neighbor and your shadow.

In A2, Ladies gypsy 1X to return to neighbor (not shadow) for a neighbor swing.

In B2, Ladies must look to their right when coming out of the star left to find their male partner in the star behind them for a Partner Gypsy and Swing

End Effects: On ends, your partner may become your neighbor.  Also, when your partner is in a different star and you are waiting out for the Partner Gypsy and Swing, stand out with the lady on the left, man on the right.

Cross Purposes                by John Coffman    2/13

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Right and Left Through (8)

            Cross Trails Through {see notes}(8)

Notes: In B2, Cross Trails Through: pass through across, ladies turn left as the men turn right; the lady passes in front of the man as both walk to meet their new neighbor to start the dance over.

Crossed the Line     by John Coffman   approx 7/10

Duple, Improper

A1     Square Through Two (Rt hands to Partner, pull by; give left hand to current neighbor and

         pull by to face a new neighbor) (4); New Neighbor Swing (12)

A2     Right and Left Through (8)

         ½ Hey (Ladies Pass Rt Sh) (8)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Left Hand Star (wrist hold star) 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Allemande Left 1X (8)

         {Dance starts over by taking right hands with partner across the set in A1}

Notes: At the end of B2, Ladies will end up facing out of the set, so the Man should give the lady's left hand a little extra push with the Man's left hand when they finish up the Allemande Left so the Ladies can pivot around to face back in to face her partner across the set.

The progression takes place in A1, and most of the dancing takes place on the opposite side. That is, the men do most of their dancing on the ladies side, and vice versa.

After taking hands four, I would tell dancers that this dance has an unusual progression, and here is how they will get to their new neighbor. Then teach the square through two - No Balances in the Square Through Two.

Cupid’s Crusty Lips        by John Coffman        10/10

Duple, Improper, Double Progression

 A1       Long Lines Forward and Back, Ladies Roll their {New} Neighbor Men Away with

             ½ Sashay as they back up from the Long Lines (8)

 Circle Right 1X (8)    

A2       With the Next Neighbors, Circle Left 1X (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

Partner Swing (8)

B2       Right and Left Through (8)

Ladies Chain (8)

Notes: I received the creative idea (long lines, roll away, circle right, with next circle left) from Nils Fredland who may have been inspired by Joseph Pimentel.

A1/A2 Circle Rt, with Next Circle Left Progression:  I really like this transition, but many dancers need help getting it. I read a good teaching tip: After the circle right 1X, you are on the side of the set with your neighbor, and your partner is across the set from you.  Now, you have one hand with your neighbor - take that hand and give it to your partner.  Now, turn to face your new neighbors, and make a ring with them to circle left.  [Using this technique, dancers will be compelled to turn toward their partner as they make the transition.]

In A1, the men roll away a new neighbor lady each time.  Dancers progress in A1 and A2.

Dale Street                             by John Coffman    7/11

Duple, Improper                {Written for Dale Wilson}

A1      Mad Robin {men on inside first - see notes} (8)

          Pousette 1 1/8 {Start pousette with men pushing, ladies pulling - see notes} (8)

A2      Partner Gypsy and Swing {on ladies original side} (16)

B1      Right and Left Through (8)

          Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B2      Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

[B2 Variation: Neighbor Balance and Swing]

Start dance over with New Neighbors

Notes:  A1: Mad Robin is with NEW NEIGHBORS - men on inside first.  The Pousette 1 1/8 ends with couples on the ladies' original side, and flows into a partner gypsy meltdown.

Dance Freak      by John Coffman    approx 6/10

Duple, Becket

A1       Circle Left 3/4  (6), Pass Through to next neighbor (2)

           Dos-Si-Dos Next Neighbor 1X (8)

A2       Balance and Swing First {original} Neighbor (16)

B1       Ladies Chain (8)

           Mad Robin {ladies on inside first} (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Slide Left to meet new neighbors

Notes: To teach the Mad Robin, I like to ask dancers to do a left shoulder Dos-Si-Dos (See Saw) with their neighbor on the side of the set (without twirling), and note the elliptical path their feet trace around the dance floor.  Now, have them face their partner across the set, and let their feet take the same elliptical path while looking at their partner - ladies take the inside path first.

Dance of the Honeybee     by John Coffman    Approx 5/10

Duple, Becket - COUNTERCLOCKWISE 

A1       Right and Left Through (8)

           Left Diagonal Ladies Chain to new neighbor (8)

A2       Ladies Right Shoulder Gypsy 1X  (8)

           Neighbor Swing (8)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           NEW MEN Allemance Left 1 ½  (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Notes: Once in Becket formation, have dancers make long lines; their partner is in one hand, and their shadow is in the other hand.

All lose their partner and their current neighbor with the left diagonal ladies chain in A1.  After the left diagonal chain, your shadow will be across from you and your new neighbor will be beside you. All will swing this new neighbor in A2.

The progression takes place at the top of B1, when NEW men allemande left 1 ½.  {That is, men look slightly to their left for the next man (new minor set) to allemande left with.}

See variation danced here:  http://dancevideos.childgrove.org/contra/contra-modern/88-dance-of-the-honeybees.html

Dancing in My Bones     by John Coffman    5/12

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Right Hand Balance (4), Box the Gnat (4)

           1/2 Hey {men pass LEFT shoulders to start} (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2

           Partner Swing (8)

B2       Ladies Chain {to Neighbor} (8)

           Left Hand Star 1X (8)

Alternate A2: Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

Danny's BBQ     by John Coffman    4/12

Duple, Improper

A1       Balance the Ring (4), Spin One Place to the Right as in Petronella (4)

           Partner Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

A2       Full Hey {men pass right shoulders to start} (16)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Right and Left Through (8)

           Circle Left 3/4, Pass Through Up and Down {to progress to new neighbors} (8)

David's Daily Double     by John Coffman        7/11, Revised 12/11, 4/15

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

         1/2 Hey {Men pass LEFT shoulders to start} (8)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Partner Swing (16)

B2     Ladies Chain (8)

         Balance the Ring (4), Cross Trails Through (4)

         Meet new neighbors to start the dance over.

Alternate A2: Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

Notes: To make the dance a little more flowing (and dizzy), the Neighbor Balance and Swing in A2 can be replaced with a Neighbor Gypsy and Swing.  The Cross Trails Through is achieved when all dancers pass their partner (across the set) by right shoulders to move to their original side.  The Neighbor Lady turns to her individual left 90 degrees to face her next neighbor WHILE that same lady's neighbor man turns to his individual right 90 degrees to face his next neighbor.  During the Cross Trails Through, the lady always turns in front of the man.

A Dog's Tale         by John Coffman     3/27/19

Duple,  Becket

A1      Pass Neighbor Across Set by Right Shoulders, California Twirl to Face Back In  (8)

             Ladies Chain {to neighbor}  (8)

A2       Hey  (16)

B1       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

              Partner Swing  (8)

Slide Left to start dance over with new neighbors

Don't Ask, Don't Tell                    by John Coffman     5/12

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Right and Left Through, Men Roll their {partner} Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay (8)

           Star Right 3/4 (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

See it taught here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqrZeDRshE0

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTztYBsQlsU 

Double Hat Syndrome     by John Coffman        5/12

Duple, Improper, 3 Part Dance AABCC

A1     Neighbor Balance and Swing {end facing down the hall in short lines of four (16)

A2     Down the hall in lines of four (8)

         Turn Alone and Come Back Up the Hall {in lines of four} (8)

B1     Invert the Line {Man #1 makes an arch with lady #2; lady #1 leads her neighbor under the arch and swings her neighbor partner on

         their opposite side as Man #1 and his neighbor {lady #2} walk to the opposite side to swing on their opposite side (16)

C1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

C2     Long Lines {Forward and Back} (8)

         Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: I got the "invert the line" idea from Jim Hemphill (who may have gotten the idea elsewhere).   According to Jim, "the invert the line move is a fun way to enter a swing as long as a lady is on the left, and a man is on the right of a line of 4."  Here, the #1 man makes an arch with his neighbor {the #2 lady} as they bend the line to cross the set {to their opposite side}.  The #1 lady leads her neighbor under the arch to their opposite side, and all swing their neighbor on this opposite side.

Double Play     by John Coffman        7/11

Duple, Becket

A1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

A2     Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Partner Swing  {end in short lines of four facing down the hall} (8)

B1     Down the Hall in lines of four (8)

         Turn Alone and Come Back Up the Hall {in lines of four} (8)

B2     Invert the Line {Couple #2 makes an arch; lady #1 leads her partner under the arch and swings her partner on their original side as the

         #2 couple walks to their original side and swings}  (16)

Slide left to start the dance over with new neighbors

Notes: I got the "invert the line" idea from Jim Hemphill (who may have gotten the idea elsewhere).   According to Jim, "the invert the line move is a fun way to enter a swing as long as a lady is on the left, and a man is on the right of a line of 4."  Here, the 2s arch as they bend the line to cross the set {to their original side}.  The #1 lady leads her partner under the arch to their original side to swing as the 2s cross to their original side to swing.

See it taught here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYO_rStZkqc&t=6s

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUTEMSjkl7s

or here: https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=WxzFoQrnkKg

Double Vision                    by John Coffman     5/17

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Pass Through Across (4)  California Twirl (4)

           Neighbor Swing (8)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Double Yolk      by John Coffman     5/8/17

Duple, Improper

A1    Chainsaw Left {clockwise viewed from ceiling - see notes}  (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

A2     Promenade Back {CCW viewed from ceiling; ladies have right shoulders to center} (8)

         Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2    Balance the Ring, Men Pull Neighbor Lady to His Side to Swing (16)

I like use the words “chainsaw” to prompt the big oval circle because the dance will flow more nicely if the lines do not move too far apart. 

Downstream     by John Coffman        Modified 1/11

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Balance and Swing {end facing down hall} (16)

A2     Down the Hall in Lines of 4 (8)

         Bend the Line and Circle Left ¾ (8)

B1     Partner Gypsy and Swing {end facing up hall} (16)

B2     Up the Hall in Lines of 4 (8)

         Circle Right 3/4 (6), California Twirl (2)

Notes: The creative idea for this dance came from Joe Surdyk. This dance requires some {lengthwise} room since dancers do not immediately return after traveling down the hall.

See it taught here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3Yp3V0dLI8

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqXmvl0lfMM

or here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPGkAGUrbdM

Drama in Middle School                     by John Coffman                11/11

Duple, Improper

A1   Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2   Circle Left 3/4 (8)

        Balance the Ring (4), Inside Turn to a Right Hand Star (4)

B1   Star Right 1X (8)

        Partner Swing (8)

B2    Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

        Ladies Chain (8)

        Progress to next neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: The figure "inside turn to a right hand star" was choreographed by Ron Buchanon, who borrowed it from swing dance.  After balancing the ring, the man is holding hands with both his partner and his neighbor lady.  The man should let go of his neighbor's hand, and keep hands with his partner.  That is, his left hand is connected to his lady partner's right hand.  With his left hand, the man brings his partner's right hand in front of her face as he twirls her and exchanges places with her.  He then places her right hand on his own right wrist to form the right hand star.

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShLG4wfYKrg

Dreaming Tim Jarvis    by John Coffman         10/16/17

Duple, Improper

A1     Start in Short Wavy Lines; Balance the Wave {R, L} (4), Swing Through {Neighbor Allemande Right 1/2, Men Allemande Left 1/2} (4)

          Partner Box the Gnat (4), Swing Through {Partner Allemande Right 1/2, Men Allemande Left 1/2} (4)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

          Partner Swing (8)

B2     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

         Ladies Dos-Si-Dos 1 1/2 (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors in short wavy lines.

Notes:  A1 Short wavy lines: All have Right hands with Neighbor; Ladies have Left Hands in Center; All are facing direction of progression

See it taught here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeH_VIouBP0

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MCnj9o0gzM

Easy Come, Easy Go         by John Coffman                    2/12

Duple, Improper, Double Progression, 3 Part Dance for 3 Part Tunes {AABBCC Format}

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       New Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

            Ladies Chain {to partner} (8)

B1       Full Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to star} (16)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

C1       Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

C2        Right and Left Through (8)

            Cross Trails Through (8)

Notes:  This is a double progression dance, but dancers will swing both neighbors each time through the dance.  That is, each neighbor swing is with a new a neighbor..  Dancers progress at A1/A2, and at the end of the dance.  

In C2, Cross Trails Through: pass through across, ladies turn left as the men turn right; the lady passes in front of the man as both walk to meet their new neighbor to start the dance over.

Edgy Knitter     by John Coffman    approx 7/10

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Star Through (8)

           ½ Hey {men pass LEFT shoulders to start} (8)

A2       Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

           Partner Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines forward and back (8)

           Circle Left ¾ (6) {Pass Through to face new neighbors} (2)

Notes: At the end of the star through in A1,the lady’s left hand will be connected to the man’s right hand.  I encourage the ladies to give the men a little tug to start them on their left shoulder ½ Hey. 

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGtYwZlHsm8

Electronic Speed Control           by John Coffman        5/8/17

Duple, Becket

A1     Circle Left 3/4, Step to a Wave {right hand with neighbor, ladies join left hands; all face dir of progression} (8)

         Balance the Wave {R,L} (4), Neighbor Allemande Right 1/2, Men Allemande Left 1/2 (4)

A2     Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1     Balance the Ring (4), Spin One Place to the Right as in Petronella (4)

         With New Neighbors, Balance the Ring (4), Spin One Place to the Right as in Petronella (4)

B2     Partner Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

          Promenade Across (men pass left shoulders)

Start the dance over again with the SAME NEIGHBORS.  The dance progresses in B1 when dancers take hands in a ring with new neighbors. 

End Effects: When standing out with your partner, stand out with the Lady on the Left, Man on the Right..

The Enchantress                 by John Coffman        12/7/18

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Mad Robin {ladies inside first}  (8)

           Right Hand Star 3/4  (8)

A2       Partner Gypsy and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

            Neighbor Swing  (8)

B2       Right and Left Through  (8),

             Mad Robin {ladies inside first}  (8)

Alternate B1:

B1         Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

              Neighbor Swing  (8)

Start dance over with new neighbors

Engine of Greed        by John Coffman               6/17

Duple, Becket

A1     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

         Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8)          

A2     Left Hand Star 1X (8)

         NEW Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1     1/2 Hey {men pass left shoulders to start} (8)

          Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

B2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Start dance over with existing neighbors; the progression takes place in A2.

Erin's Encore                 by John Coffman        4/12/18

Duple, Becket, Single Progression                     

A1      Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

           Men Reel the Set {Men Allemande Left 3/4; With the Next Man, Allemande by the Right 1/2 as Ladies step Left}  (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

            Neighbor Swing  (8)

B2       Balance the Ring (4),  Ladies Pull Partner Man to Their {Ladies'} Side to Swing  (12)

Start the dance over with the neighbors now across; the progression takes place in A1.  If dancers become saw-toothed after the partner balance and swing, have them look a little to their left to find their neighbors to circle left with in B1. To minimize the saw tooth effect, encourage ladies to step left in A1 as the men reel the set.            

Every Grain of Sand     by John Coffman    4/12

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Circle Left 1/2 (4), Ladies Roll their Neighbor Man Away with 1/2 Sashay (4)

           Ladies Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Right and Left Through (8)

           Ladies Chain (8)

           Face new neighbors to start the dance over.

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mu1bXOR4jqM

Alternate B2: 

B2       Ladies Chain (8)

           Cross Trails Through (8)

Every Dove Fallen                 by John Coffman        9/22/14

Duple, Improper, Reverse Progression                     

A1      Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2 to form Long Wavy Lines - Men Face In (8)

           Balance the Lines {R,L} (4)  Slide Right as in Rory O'Moore (4)

A2       New Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B2       1/2 Hey {men pass left shoulders to start} (8),

             Circle Left 3/4 (8)

Start dance over with same neighbors; progression takes when dancers slide right to find new neighbor to balance and swing in A2.

Fair and Square                 by John Coffman        12/21/18

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Right Hand Balance  (4)  Box the Gnat  (4)

            Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

            Neighbor Swing  (8)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

            Square Through Two with Balances {start with right hands to your partner}  (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Fall Down Cat           by John Coffman    approx 8/10

Duple, Becket

A1       Left Diagonal Right and Left Through (8)

            Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

A2       Ladies Chain Across (8)

            Left Hand Star 1X (8)

B1       Look for your "old” neighbors behind you.  With this “old” Neighbor, Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

Partner Swing (8)

Notes:  All will progress two places with the left diagonal right and left through in A1.  In B1, all will un-progress one place when they balance and swing their “old” neighbor.

To teach the dance, I would have dancers take a hard look at the dancers on their left diagonal – call these dancers their old neighbors, and tell them they will come back to them.  Now, have dancers do a left diagonal right and left through with these old neighbors.

After the ladies chain in A2, and before the star left 1X, I would have dancers turn around to identify the "old" neighbor behind them; these should be the same neighbors they did the left diagonal right and left through with.  After identifying these “old” neighbors, I would have them turn back to their current neighbors to complete the star left 1X.

Farewell Marcelina                   by John Coffman    Approx 6/17

Duple, Becket

A1       Circle Left 3/4, Pass Through Up and Down (8)

            Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl (4)

A2       {Original} Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

            Left Diagonal Ladies Chain {to shadow} (8)

B2       Cross Trails Through (4) Partner Swing (12)

Notes: In becket formation, shadow is beyond partner  In B2: Cross Trails Through: Pass through across the set and turn to face your shadow - pass your shadow by left shoulders to find your partner.  Timing is tight in A1; it might help to discourage dancers from getting too spread out (lengthwise).

Farmer Roy's Daughter     by John Coffman    12/17

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Full Hey {Men pass Left shoulders to start} !16)

B1       Balance the Ring (4)  Ladies Pull Partner to Ladies' side for Partner Swing (12)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back, On way back out, Men Roll Partner Lady Away with 1/2 Sashay (8)

          Right Hand Star 3/4 (8) 

           Face new neighbors to start the dance over.

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QcYFzfnQmg 

Field House Mouse           by John Coffman   7/11

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Allemande Right 1 ½ (8)

            1/2 Hey {Men pass LEFT shoulders to start}(8)

A2       Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B2       Ladies Chain (8)

               Star Left 1X (8)

           The dance starts over with new neighbors.

Fine Fellow                    by John Coffman     4/12

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

           Partner Swing (8)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           Right and Left Through, Men Roll their {partner} Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay (8)

B2       Star Right 3/4 (8)

           With New Neighbors, 1/2 Ricochet Hey {men to inside first} (8)

Alternate A2:

A2       Balance the Ring (4), Men pull {partner} Lady to Men's side as in Give and Take (4)

           Partner Swing (8)

Fire and Brimstone                    by John Coffman     9/13

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

           Balance the Ring (4), Men Roll their Neighbor Lady Away with 1/2 Sashay  (4)

First Person View                    by John Coffman     5/8/17

Duple, Improper

A1       Circle Left 1/2, Neighbor Allemande Right 3/4, Men Allemande Left 1/2 (8)

            Partner Swing  (8) 

A2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Full Hey {men pass left shoulders to start} (16)

Fit as a Flea                 by John Coffman        12/13/18

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Neighbor Left Hand Balance  (4)  Swat the Flea  (4)

           Promenade Across {with neighbor}  (8)

A2       Ladies Chain {to partner}  (8)

            Mad Robin {ladies inside first}  (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back -  On Way Back Out, Men Roll Partner Lady Away with 1/2 Sashay  (8),

             Right Hand Star 3/4  (8)

Start dance over with new neighbors

Fleabitten      by John Coffman      5/4/17

Duple, Becket

A1      Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8)

          Left Hand Star 1X (8)

A2      Neighbor Left Hand Balance (4), Swat the Flea  (4) 

          1/2 Hey {men pass right shoulders to start} (8)

B1      Neighbor Balance and Swing (16) 

B2      Balance the Ring (4), Ladies Pull Partner to Her {original} Side to Swing (12)

Slide Left to New Neighbors

Floating on Air           by John Coffman   4/11

Duple, Becket

A1       Zag Right (2), Zig Left (2) to meet new neighbors {see notes}, With these new neighbors, Circle Left ½ (4)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

A2       Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

            ½ Hey {pass partner by right shoulder to start – see notes} (8)

B1       Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

               Right and Left Through (8)

           The dance starts over with these same neighbors.

Notes: The progression takes place in A1.  The Zag and Zig is a little different in this dance; it is done by holding inside hands with your partner {man’s right joined to lady’s left}.  Couples move one place to the right in their minor set, so they are now in normal improper position {with the ladies on the right as they face their neighbors up and down the set.}  Then all will {Zag} to their individual right with men passing left shoulders as they move past their current neighbors.  Then all move {Zig} to their individual left to come face to face  new neighbors.

 A2: After the men allemande left 1 ½, I would have the men stand back to back in the middle {facing their partner}.  All will now be in place to start the ½ hey by passing right shoulders with their partner.  The ladies do exactly ½ hey; the men do slightly more than ½ hey.

Fran's Friendly Fleamarket                 by John Coffman        12/11/18

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Left Hand Balance  (4)  Swat the Flea  (4)

            Ladies Dos-Si-Dos 1 1/2  (8) 

A2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B1      Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

           Neighbor Swing  (8)

B2       Balance the Ring  (4)  Petronella Spin 1 Place to the Right  (4)

            Balance the Ring  (4)  Petronella Spin 1 Place to the Right to Face New Neighbors  (4)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Frog Mouth Retro              by John Coffman     approx 10/10

Duple, Improper, REVERSE PROGRESSION {see notes}

A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

Circle Left ¾ (8)

B2        Ones Arch, Dip and Dive {see notes} (8)

            Balance the Ring (4) California Twirl (4)    

Notes:  This is a REVERSE PROGRESSION dance; that is, ones will progress up the hall, and twos will progress down the hall.  During B2, all will progress backwards 2 places, then progress forward one place {for a net progression of one place backwards}.  Not recommended for beginners

To teach this dance, I would have dancers take hands four, and face their current neighbor.  Then, tell them they will progress backwards; that is, their next neighbors are behind them.  You might have dancers drop hands and turn around to meet their next neighbors behind them.  {I will call these Neighbors #2.} After introducing dancers to their next neighbors {#2}, ask them to turn back around to take hands four with their current neighbors.

At the bottom of B1, dancers will circle left ¾.  I would pause dancers after the circle left ¾; at this point, all should be facing their direction of progression, which is opposite the normal direction of progression.  That is ones are facing up the hall, and twos are facing down the hall.

In B2, Ones will make an arch while the twos dive through {under the arch}.  All will now be facing their next neighbors {neighbors #2}.  Now, the Twos will make an arch, as the ones dive through {under the arch}.   All will now be facing yet another set of neighbors. {I will call these neighbors #3.}  With these neighbors #3, make a ring, and balance the ring (4), California Twirl (4) to face neighbors #2, and the dance will start over.

When kicked out on the ends, California Twirl to face back in with the lady on the right.  {If kicked out in the middle of the dip and dive, the California Twirl should be done quickly.}

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcGO8b-gVq0

Full Monty    by John Coffman        2/12

Duple, Improper, 3 Part Dance for 3 Part Tunes [AABCC Format]

A1  Circle Left 1X (8)

      Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos 1X (8)

A2  Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1  Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

      Partner Swing (8)

C1  Right and Left Through (8)

      Ladies Chain (8)

C21  Full Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (16)

Look for new neighbors to start the dance over

 The Girls of Saint Louis         by John Coffman     3/11

Duple, Becket

A1       Pass Through to an Ocean Wave (4), Balance the Wave {R,L} (4)

            Partner Allemande Right ½ (3), Men Allemande Left ½ (2), Neighbor Allemande Right ½ (2) Walk Forward to New

            Neighbors (1)

A2       New Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1    Circle Left 3/4 (8)

                    Partner Dos-Si-Dos (8)

            B2    Partner Balance and Swing (16)

See it taught here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2s_Wdt3-m2A

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7l0jP2VNJ5o or here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9lwB0kzNwc

Alternate:

B1       Long Lines (Forward and Back) (8)

            Circle Left ¾ (8)

B2       Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

            Start dance over with the neighbors now across from you.

Notes:  The {unusual} progression takes place at the end of A1.  To teach this dance, I would have dancers take hands four in improper formation.  Tell the dancers this dance has an unusual progression, and it will help if they identify their next neighbors by looking past their current neighbors.  Then have dancers move one place to the left so they are in Becket formation.

In A1, the Pass Through to an Ocean Wave is achieved by passing right shoulders with the person (neighbor) across the set; as women pass left shoulders with each other, they take left hands in an allemande grip and turn ¼ to make a short wavy line across the set.  When the short wavy line is complete, all have right hands with their partner, and ladies have left hands in the middle.  Partners will be facing opposite directions.  {If you have a foursome demonstrate, it might help to cue dancers to look at the person standing in their spot.}

The second part of A1 is a modified swing through; that is, it is a swing through with one extra allemande.   After the final allemande, all should be facing their direction of progression.  Advise dancers that timing is tight with the modified swing through, so they don’t want to get too far spread apart (lengthwise); otherwise it will be difficult to make it to their new neighbor on time for the balance and swing.

See the alternate danced here:  http://dancevideos.childgrove.org/contra/contra-modern/113-girls-of-st-louis.html

The Girls from Urbana                    by John Coffman     5/10/17

Duple, Improper

A1       Circle Right 1X (8)

           Zag Right (3), Zig Left (3), Ladies Allemande Right 1/2 (2)

A2       New Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

           Partner Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Spin one place to the Right  (4)

See it taught here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1B-oqqsASAA

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzm7Bgfm9O0

or here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7l0jP2VNJ5o

Give it a Whirl     by John Coffman     3/12

Duple, Becket

A1     Ladies Dos-Si-Dos 1 1/2 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

A2     Right and Left Through (8)

         Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2     Men Allemande Left 1X (6)

         Men Scoop Up Partner and Star Promenade Across; Butterfly Whirl with Partner WHILE shifting Left

         to get across from New Neighbors {to start dance over} (10)

The Golden Goose                 by John Coffman        12/10/18

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Neighbor Left Hand Balance  (4)  Swat the Flea  (4)

           Ladies  Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

            Neighbor Swing  (8)

B2       Balance the Ring  (4)  Spin 1 Place to the Right as in Petronella  (4)

             Balance the Ring  (4)  Spin 1 Place to the Right as in Petronella  (4)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over

Goldie the Guy Cat         by John Coffman     12/10

Duple, Improper

A1       Circle Right 1X (8)

            Ladies Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Right and Left Through (8)

            Circle Left 1X (8)

Face new neighbors to start dance over.

Grey Pants        by John Coffman               4/2013

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Left Hand Balance (4) Swat the Flea (4)

         1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (8)         

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Right and Left Through (8)

         Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over

Note: The progression at the end of B2 is unusual.

Half Way Home      by John Coffman               3/2012

Duple, Becket

A1     Circle Left 1/2  (4),  Ladies Roll their Partner Man Away with 1/2 Sashay (4)

         Ladies Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)         

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Ladies Chain (to partner} (8)

         1/2 Hey {Ladies Pass Right Shoulders to Start} (8)

B2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Slide Left to meet new neighbors

Handiwork                by John Coffman        4/8/18

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Neighbor Allemande Right 1/2, Men Allemande Left 1/2 (4), Partner Box the Gnat (4) (8)  {see notes}

           1/2 Hey {pass partner by right shoulders to start; ladies do slightly more than 1/2 hey - see notes} (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

             Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8),

             Left Hand Star 1X (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Notes: In A1, there is no balance; after the box the gnat, ladies end up back to back in the center - facing out with right hands connected to their partners.  In the subsequent 1/2 hey, men do exactly 1/2 hey while ladies do slightly more than 1/2 hey.

The Handmaid's Tale               by John Coffman        4/19/18

Duple, Becket                     

A1      Circle Left 3/4 (8)

           Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos  (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Ladies Step Into the Middle to Form a Long Wavy Line of Women  (4)  Women Balance the Wave {R,L}  (4)

            Ladies Reel the Set {Ladies Allemande Rt 1/2, With the Next Lady Allemande Left 3/4 as Men take small Step Left}  (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16),

Notes: Start the dance over with neighbors now across; progression occurs in B1 when Ladies reel the set and men step left.  Dancers will probably need to cheat a to the right to locate the neighbors they start the dance over with; the neighbors will include the lady she did the allemande right with in B1.

The Handyman                 by John Coffman        4/8/18

Duple, Becket                     

A1     Men reel the line.  That is, Men Allemande Left 3/4 to meet the next man, with whom he will Allemande Right 1/2 as the Ladies Step Left  (8)

          1/2 Hey {pass new neighbor by left shoulders to start - see notes (8)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

          Balance the Ring  (4)  Spin One Place to the Right as in Petronella  (8)

B2     Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

Dance starts over with same neighbors now across {same neighbors dancers Hey'd with in A1}  This is a single progression dance; the progression takes place in A1 when men reel the set and ladies step left.  The neighbor balance and swing in A2 is with a new neighbor each time through the dance.

In A1, men do slightly more than 1/2 hey; ladies do exactly 1/2 hey.

Happy Hare        by John Coffman               5/2012; Revised 5/16

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Promenade Across {men pass left shoulders} (8)         

A2     Ladies Chain {to partner} (8)

         1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (8)

B1     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7xV94V2ZC0  or here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TPWhfUFhI8

Alternate B2:

B2     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

Happy Harry        by John Coffman                6/17

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Promenade Across {men pass left shoulders} (8)          

A2     1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (8)

         Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over

Happy Wife Happy Life        by John Coffman               7/2012

Duple, Improper

A1     Start in Short Wavy Lines {ladies have left hands in the center; all have right hands with their neighbor

          and all are facing their direction of progression. Balance the Wave {R,L} (4), Neighbor Allemande Right 1/2 (2),

          Men Allemande Left 1/2 (2), Partner Allemande Right 1X (6),

          Men Allemande Left 1/2 {back to neighbor} (2)         

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

         Ladies Dos-Si-Dos 1 1/2 (8)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gh5brX-NWzI

Or here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yx9J3aHRAnY&list=UUF_ExFYC6eUgoCdNsFQ0ADg

Hard Boiled Egg           by John Coffman          6/30/18

Duple, Becket, Counterclockwise

A1       Ladies Chain {to neighbor] (8)

           Circle Right 1X (8)

A2       Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

            New Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos (8)

B1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

Notes: The progression takes place in A2 with the Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2

End Effects: Stand out with the lady on the left, man on the right; dancers will re-enter the dance with the New Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos in A2.

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sFyKNAyqWo&feature=youtu.be

See it taught here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZpi_B9ndc0

Hard Turn           by John Coffman and Jim Hemphill    6/13

Duple, Becket        

A1     Ladies Chain {to neighbor} (8),

         Left Hand Star 1X (8)

A2     Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2 {see notes} (8)

         Ladies Allemande Left 2X (8)

B1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B2     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

Slide Left with Partner to start the dance over with new neighbors

Notes: At the top of A2, the ladies should reach back with their free right hand OVER the star to take right hands with their opposite gender neighbor to allemande right 1 1/2 with their neighbor.  {Neighbor man is behind the ladies in the star on the same side of the set}

Timing is tight in A2

The Hare and the Hedgehog                 by John Coffman        1/3/19

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Circle Left 1/2  (4)  Men Roll Neighbor Lady Away with 1/2 Sashay {ladies roll in front of men}  (4)

           Ladies Chain {to ptnr}  (8)

A2       Left Hand Star 1X  (8)

            Shadow Gypsy 1X  (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Balance the Ring  (4)  Spin 1 Place to the Right as in Petronella  (4)

             Balance the Ring  (4)  California Twirl  (4)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: To find shadow, have dances temporarily stand in becket formation; shadow is beyond partner.  {Don't forget to have dancers return to improper formation after identifying shadow; this is NOT a becket dance.}

He Said, She Said      by John Coffman    Revised 8/11

Duple, Becket

A1     Circle Left 1X (8)

         Ladies Roll their Partner Man Away with 1/2 Sashay (4), Men Roll their Partner Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay (4)         

A2     Ladies Chain (8)

         1/2 Hey {Ladies Pass Right Shoulders to Start} (8)

B1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B2     Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

Slide Left to meet new neighbors

Notes:  I have not called or danced this dance.  The sequence in A1 is unusual.  After the men roll their partner lady away, he will have his right hand in her left hand.  I like to encourage the men to give the ladies a little tug with that hand to help the ladies as they go into the center for the ladies chain.

Heartstrings    by John Coffman        2/12; Revised 11/12

Duple, Improper, 3 Part Dance for 3 Part Tunes [AABCC Format]

A1  Long Lines Forward and Back, on the way back out, Ladies Roll a New Man Away with 1/2 sashay (8)

      Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

A2  Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1  Full Hey {men pass left shoulders to start} (16)

C1  Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

C2  Circle Left 3/4 (8)

      Neighbor Swing

Alternate:  Some callers may like to substitute the Gypsy and Swing in C! with a Balance and Swing

Notes: In A1, the ladies roll a a NEW neighbor man away with 1/2 sashay each time through the dance.

Heaven and Earth                   by John Coffman    3/12

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

            Promenade Across {men pass left shoulders} (8)

A2       Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           1/2 Hey {men pass LEFT shoulders to start - see notes}(8)

Progress to new neighbors after Hey to start dance over

Notes:  For a smooth transition to new neighbors, it is important that men pass LEFT shoulders to start the 1/2 hey in B2.

Hello Goodbye     by John Coffman    approx 5/10

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Allemande Left 1X (8)

         Old {previous}Neighbor Right Shoulder Gypsy (8)

A2     First {current} Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Right and Left Through (8)

         Circle Left ¾, Pass Through by Right Shoulders to face next neighbor (8)

Hemp Hill Robins           by John Coffman     3/11

Duple, Improper                      {written for Jim Hemphill}

A1       Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

A2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

            Circle Left ¾ (8)

B1       Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

B2       Ladies Chain {to neighbor}(8)

            Mad Robin {ladies on inside first} (8)

            Look for new neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: Martha Edwards came up with the name for this dance.

 See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oH_2wvv7iEU

Hemphill's Chicks           by John Coffman     2/12

Duple, Improper                      {written for Jim Hemphill}

A1       Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos 1X (8)

            Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

A2       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 while the ladies 1/2 orbit {clockwise}to the other side (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B2       Ladies Chain {to neighbor}(8)

            1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (8)

            Look for new neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: Jim Hemphill provided the creative idea for this dance.

Hen's Teeth                 by John Coffman        12/6/18, Revised 1/13/19

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Circle Left 1/2  (4)  Men Roll Neighbor Lady Away with 1/2 Sashay {ladies roll in front of men}  (4)

           Ladies Chain  (8)

A2       Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}  (16)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Balance the Ring  (4)  Spin 1 Place to the Right as in Petronella  (4)

             Balance the Ring  (4)  California Twirl  (4)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over.

Hey Day         by John Coffman     3/19/19

Duple,  Improper

A1      Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

             1/2 Hey  {ladies pass right to start}  (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Balance the Ring, Ladies Pull Partner Man to Lady's side to Swing Partner  (16)

B2       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

Start dance over with new neighbors

Hey Gomer, Hey Goober   by John Coffman    10/12, Revised 4/13, 1/14, 12/18

Duple, Improper

A1       Gypsy Neighbor 1/2 so men face in; 1/2 Hey {men pass LEFT shoulders to start} (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

A2       Circle Left 3/4 (8); Men Roll {their partner) Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay (8)

            1/2 Hey {men pass left shoulders to start}(8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2         Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

            Ladies Chain {to your Neighbor} (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Hey Gomer, Hey Goober - Original Version   by John Coffman    10/12,

Duple, Improper

A1       Gypsy Neighbor 1/4 so men face in; 1/2 Hey {men pass LEFT shoulders to start} (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

A2       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B1       1/2 Hey {men pass left shoulders to start} (8)

            Partner Swing (8)  

B2         Right and Left Through; Men Roll Partner Lady Away with 1/2 Sashay (8)

            Right Hand Star 3/4 (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Hey Ride                 by John Coffman        12/6/18

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Circle Left 1/2  (4)  Men Roll Neighbor Lady Away with 1/2 Sashay  (4)

           Right Hand Star 3/4 {wrist hold star}  (8)

A2       Partner Gypsy and Swing  (16)

B1       Balance the Ring, Ladies Pull Neighbor Men to Their {Ladies'} Side to Swing  (16)

B2       Hey {men pass left shoulders to start}  (16)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over.

Highway 81         by John Coffman     12/10/23

Duple,  Improper

A1      Left Hand Star 1X (8)

              Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

A2       Promenade Across with Neighbor  (8)

               Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Neighbor Right Hand Balance {across set}, Box the Gnat  (8)

              Right Hand Star 3/4  (8)

Start dance over with new neighbors

Note: I prefer wrist hold stars in this dance.

Hint of Romance    by John Coffman    approx 8/10

Duple, Becket

A1       Yearn Left, Long Lines Forward and Back, on the way back out, Men Roll {Shadow} Ladies Away with ½ Sashay  (8)

            Circle Right 1X (8)

A2       Left Diagonal Ladies Chain {to neighbor}(8)

            ½ Hey Across {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (8)

B1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

Notes: It might be helpful to have dancers identify their shadow before teaching the dance.  In becket formation, have dancers make long lines.  In one hand is their partner; in the other hand is their shadow.

In A1, the progression happens when long lines move one spot to the left as they move forward {diagonally} on the long lines forward and back.  When the “yearn left, long lines forward and back” is completed, all should find themselves across from a new set of neighbors. [I will call the opposite gender neighbor across from you after the “yearn left long lines,” Neighbor #1.] When the men roll their {shadow} ladies away on the side of the set, all ladies will un-progress as they move to their right and trade places with their shadow; you will now have a new neighbor across from you, and your partner will be in another minor set of 4.  The Circle Right 1X in A1 is with your shadow and the couple now across from you {does not include opposite gender Neighbor #1}.

The left diagonal ladies chain in A2 is to your neighbor #1, and your partner should now be across from you. {With the left diagonal ladies chain, the ladies progress {to their left} so they are now across from their partner.}

The ladies un-progress in A1 with the roll away with ½ sashay, and they progress in A2 with the left diagonal ladies chain.  All couples progress with the yearn left, long lines.

Hinton's Circle of Love          by Adam Hinton and John Coffman    5/12

Circle Mixer

A1       Ladies into the Middle and Back Out (8)

           Men into the middle, then face out to make a Long Wavy {continuous} Line {or circle}

           Men Face Out; Ladies Face In - partner is in Right hand (8) 

A2       Balance the Lines {R,L} (4), Slide Right as in Rory O' More (4)

           Partner Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

B1       New Neighbor Balance and Swing {this becomes your new partner} (16)

B2       Promenade Counterclockwise {men have left shoulders to center} (8)

           Circle Right (8)

Hinton's Hint      by John Coffman  2/13

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Left Hand Balance (4)  Swat the Flea {see notes} (4)

         1/2 Hey {laddies pass right shoulders to start}

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Right and Left Through {across}, Men Roll their partner

         Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay (8)

         Right Hand Star 3/4 (8)

Progress to new neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: A "Swat the Flea" is a left handed Box the Gnat

Hit the Hey     by John Coffman     5/11

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2     Ladies Chain (8)

         Pass Through to an Ocean Wave (4), Balance the Wave {R, L} (4)

B1     1/2 Hey {pass partner by right shoulders to start - see notes} (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

         Circle Left ¾, Pass Through by Right Shoulders to face next neighbor (8)

Notes: In B1, men do exactly 1/2 hey; ladies do slightly more than 1/2 hey.

The Hive        by John Coffman                     12/10

Duple, Becket

A1       Left Diagonal Right and Left Through (8)

            Straight Across, Ladies Chain (8)

A2       With the neighbors now across from you, Circle Right 1X {all the way} (8)

With old {previous} neighbors, Circle Left 1X {these old neighbors are the same neighbors dancers did the left diagonal right and left through with in A1 – see notes} (8)

B1       Old Neighbor Gypsy and Swing {same old neighbor dancers did the left diagonal right and left through with in A1 – see

            notes}(16)

B2       Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

Notes:  All will progress two places with the left diagonal right and left through in A1.  In B1, all will un-progress one place when they circle left with their old neighbors for a net progression of one forward

To teach the dance, I would have dancers take a hard look at the dancers on their left diagonal – call these dancers their old neighbors, and tell them they will come back to them.  Now, have dancers do a left diagonal right and left through with these old neighbors.

In A1, the ladies chain is with the neighbors now across from you.  I really like the circle right, circle left transition, but many dancers may need help understanding how to make it flow smoothly.  After the ladies chain, have dancers take hands in a ring AS IF they were going to circle right, but don’t go anyplace.  With hands in a ring, you are on the side of the set with your neighbor, and your partner is across the set from you.  Now, you have one hand with your neighbor - take that hand and give it to your partner so you now have both hands with your partner.  Now, keep that second hand and turn to face your new neighbors, and make a ring with them to circle left.  Notice that you turned toward your partner as you made the transition.  [Using this technique, dancers will be compelled to turn toward their partner as they make the transition.]  I might then have dancers drop hands, and turn to make a ring with their current neighbors.  I might have them practice this a couple of times before doing it with the circles, and most come to understand that the easy (smooth) way to turn is to the inside toward your partner as you make the transition.

When you do the transition with circles, it is important to make sure dancers make a ring with the neighbors they did the ladies chain with (not the old neighbors they did the left diagonal right and left through with).

The Old Neighbor Gypsy and Swing in B1 is with the neighbor dancers did the left diagonal right and left through with.

End Effects: Dancers are never really out in this dance.  If a couple finds themselves alone after the left diagonal right and left through, they should stand out with the lady on the right (as in most duple improper dances) so they can be ready for the circle left with their old neighbors.  When waiting for the left diagonal right and left through, dancers should position themselves accordingly.

Holding Company   by John Coffman    5/22/18

Duple, Becket

A1     Long Lines Forward and Back, Slice Left to get across from new neighbors (8)

         Ladies Chain [to neighbor] (8)

A2     {modified} 1/2 Hey to a Short Wavy Line - see notes - ladies pass right shoulders to start hey (8)                                                                                                                                          Balance the Wave {R,L} (4), Slide Right as in Rory O'Moore (4)

B1     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2     Men Allemande Left 1X (6)

          Partner Swing (10)

Notes: Progression takes place in A1 with the Long Lines Forward and Back, Slice Left

A2: 1/2 Hey to a Short Wavy Line: Ladies pass right shoulders to start the 1/2 hey, and ladies complete the 1/2 hey; Men do slightly less than 1/2 hey; men catch right hands after they pass each other to form a short wavy line where men have right hands in the center and all dancers have left hands with their neighbor.

I am unsure of this dance; I will update the website after we dance it.

Honeycomb     by John Coffman    approx 6/10

Duple, Becket

A1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Ladies Curl In to stand back to back in the middle facing their Neighbor. Pass Neighbor by Right

         Shoulders to start ½ Hey. {Men do exactly ½ Hey, Ladies do slightly more than ½ Hey} (8)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Ladies Curl In to stand back to back in the middle facing their Partner. Pass Partner by Right

         Shoulders to start ½ Hey. {Men do exactly 1/2 Hey, Ladies do slightly more than ½ Hey} (8)

B2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

         Slide Left to start dance over again with new neighbors.

Alternate:

Some callers may like to substitute the Balance and Swing in A2 and B2 with a Gypsy and Swing

Notes: Like honeycomb, this dance is symmetrical.

The ladies curl at the bottom of A1 and B1 sets up the 1/2 hey that follows. I like to tell dancers that as they come out of the circle left 3/4, men should give the ladies a little tug {as they would do when rolling the ladies away - but you only do a partial roll away so the ladies end up back to back in the middle. That is, men roll the ladies away about 1/4 so the ladies end up back to back in the middle. {I like to instruct men to put their right hand in their pocket as I teach the curl (or ¼ roll away) figure. If men attempt to use their right hand (and many may), it will make this smooth figure clunky.} During the actual dance, this should happen fluidly, and the ladies don't actually have to line up exactly, back to back with each other.

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5i_JNczkSMw

or here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnjNe6jZOSM

Honeyville     by John Coffman      8/13

Duple, Becket, Counterclockwise

A1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos (8)

A2     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Left Diagonal Ladies Chain {to shadow} (8)

         Shadow Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

B2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

         Start the dance over with the neighbors now across from you.

Notes: It might be helpful to introduce dancers to their shadow before teaching the dance.  When standing in Becket formation, have dancers hold hands in long lines; their partner is in one hand; their shadow is in the other hand.  End Effects: ALL dancers should allemande their shadow by the left in B1 to put the lady on the LEFT as they face back in to balance and swing their partner in B2.

See it danced here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-DkOLVkTiA

Hoody’s Peanuts     by John Coffman    approx 9/09

{Variation suggested by Tom Hinds}

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

         Promenade Across (8)

A2     Ladies, Rt Sh Gypsy 1X in middle to return to Neighbor (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B1     Circle Left ¾ (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

         Neighbor Allemande Right 1 ½ to face direction of progression (8)

Notes: You may need to help dancers orient in B2.   Just before the walk through, I like to have dancers look past their current neighbors to make eye contact with their next neighbor.  After dancers allemande their neighbor in B2, have them look for their new neighbor, the one they made eye contact with before the walk through.

Humpty Dumpty        by John Coffman     4/1/19

Duple,  Becket

A1      Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

             1/2 Hey {Ladies pass right shoulders to start}  (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Balance the Ring, Petronella Twirl one place to the right  (8)

              Balance the Ring, California Twirl  (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

Notes:  When in Becket, shadow is beyond partner

In and Out                    by John Coffman     5/7/17

Duple, Becket

A1       Circle Left 3/4, Pass Through Up and Down (8)

           With New Neighbors, Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl (4) 

A2       First {original} Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

B2       Cross Trails through (4)

           Partner Swing (12)

In the Ballpark                     by John Coffman                Approx 2/12

Duple, Becket

A1   Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

        1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}

A2   Neighbor Balance and Swing {see notes} (16)

B1   Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

        Ladies Allemande Right {see notes} 1 1/2

B2    Ladies keep right hands joined with each other and put their free left hand on their partner's shoulder {ladies scoop up their partner

        with their left hand on their partner's shoulder} for a Star Promenade Across (4),

        Butterfly Whirl {men walk forward} (4)

        Partner Swing (8)

Notes: While standing in Becket formation, have dancers face their partner on the side of the set; their shadow is beyond their partner.  After the left diagonal ladies chain, your shadow is across from you.  The neighbor balance and swing in A2 is with your neighbor, not your shadow.

B1: After the Long Lines Forward and Back, ladies should look slightly to their RIGHT to find the lady to allemande right with.  This lady is in the next minor set; she is the same lady she did the left diagonal ladies chain with, and the same lady that just swung her partner.

In the Money     by John Coffman    5/13

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Star Through (8)

           Ladies Right Shoulder Gypsy 1X (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

           Partner Swing (8)

B2       Long Lines forward and back (8)

           Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

Notes: At the end of the star through in A1,the lady’s left hand will be connected to the man’s right hand.  I encourage the men to give the ladies a little tug to start them on their right shoulder gypsy. 

Inside Out                     by John Coffman                1/13

Duple, Improper

A1   Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16) 

A2   Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

        Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1    Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2    Circle Left 3/4 (6)

        Inside Out {see notes} (8)

        Progress to next neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: Inside Out in B2: After the circle left 3/4, men should drop hands with their neighbors and keep hands with their partner.  Men should then turn back over their left shoulder to lead their partner counterclockwise around the neighbors they have been dancing with {to progress to their next neighbors}.  The man's right hand is connected to his partner's left hand; the man should put his right hand behind his back to lead his partner single file as they do the "inside out" progression. I will try to post a video of this maneuver.

Insider Trading                     by John Coffman                11/11,  Revised 7/13

Duple, Improper

        {Start this dance at the end - see notes}

A1   Right Hand Star 3/4 (8)

        Separate from Partner, Left Hand Star 1X {different star from partner, but with shadow} (8)

A2   Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1    Hey {men pass left shoulders to start} (16)

B2     Circle Left 3/4 (6), Pass Through up and down (2)

         With New Neighbors, Balance the Ring (4), Inside Turn to a Right Hand Star (4)  {see notes}

Notes: Insider Trading is not a good choice for novice callers or dancers.

The progression takes place in the middle of B2.  When teaching the dance, start by having dancers balance the ring, then inside turn to a right hand star - see below.

It might be helpful to have dancers identify their shadow before teaching the dance.  Though this is NOT a becket dance, you might have dancers temporarily get into becket position.  If they look at their partner beside them, their shadow is beyond their partner.  Once dancers have identified their shadows, don't forget to have them move back into normal improper formation.

The figure "inside turn to a right hand star" was choreographed by Ron Buchanon, who borrowed it from swing dance.  After balancing the ring, the man is holding hands with both his partner and his neighbor lady.  The man should let go of his partner's hand, and keep hands with his neighbor.  That is, his left hand is connected to his lady neighbor's right hand.  With his left hand, the man brings his partner's right hand in front of her face as he twirls her and exchanges places with her.  He then places her right hand on his own right wrist to form the right hand star.

In the bottom of A1, Partners will separate, and star left 1X in different minor sets.  All should be in star with their shadow.  #1 man and #2 lady star above.  #2 man and #1 lady star below..

Interspecies Bonding                      by John Coffman   approx 10/10

Duple, Becket

A1       Left Diagonal Right and Left Through (8)

Circle Right ¾ (6) California Twirl (2)

A2       Face the “wrong way” neighbors behind you.  That is, face OPPOSITE  your direction of progression.

            With this “wrong way” Neighbor, Balance and Swing  {see notes} (16)

B1       Men Pull Across with Left Hands (2), Partner Allemande Right 1X (6), Men Pull Across with

            Left Hands (1), Neighbor Allemande Right 1X (6), Men Pull Across with Left Hands (1)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Notes:  All will progress two places with the left diagonal right and left through in A1.  In A2, all will un-progress one place when they balance and swing their “wrong way” neighbor.

After the California Twirl in A2, all will face opposite their direction of progression.  The balance and swing with the “wrong way” neighbors is with the same neighbors they did the diagonal right and left through with. After the partner swing in B2, all should be across from these same “wrong way” neighbors – the couple they did the diagonal right and left through with.

Jonjak's Jaunty Jaunt      by John Coffman  5/11/17

Duple, Becket

A1     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

A2     Down the Hall in Lines of Four (8)

         Bend the Line, Circle Left 3/4, Pass Through Up and Down (8)

B1     New Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B2     Up the Hall in Lines of Four (8)

         Bend the Line, Balance the Ring, Petronella Spin One Place to the Right (8)

The progression takes place in A2 when dancers pass through up and down.

Jonjak's Journey      by John Coffman  5/11/17

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2     Down the Hall in Lines of Four (8)

         Bend the Line, Balance the Ring, Cross Trails Through (8)

B1     New Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Up the Hall in Lines of Four (8)

         Bend the Line, Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

The progression takes place in A2 when dancers cross trails through.  During the walk through, I would coach the men to take a step forward (in their direction of progression) when the ladies are allemanding by the right in B1; this should help the flow of this dance.

Judy's Joy      by John Coffman  7/11

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2     Promenade Across {with Neighbor} (8)

         Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B1     Partner Gypsy and Swing {meltdown} (16)

B2     Long Lines forward and back (8)

         Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

Notes: A very easy dance with a {somewhat} unusual progression.  When teaching the dance, I recommend having dancers look at their neighbors after they take hands 4; then look past these current neighbors to find their next neighbors.  This should help new dancers orient when they progress at the end of the dance.

See it danced here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1dN4KRmMrc

Jumping Joe Felsen      by John Coffman  11/12

Duple, Becket

A1      Circle Left 1X (8)

           Left Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

A2      Ladies Gypsy 1X (8)

           Neighbor Swing (8)

B1      Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

           Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

B2      Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Start the dance over with the neighbors now across from you.

Notes: It might be helpful to introduce dancers to their shadow before teaching the dance.  While in Becket formation, have dancers face their partner; their shadow is beyond their partner.

After the left diagonal ladies chain in A1, your shadow is across from you. The Neighbor Swing in A2 is with your neighbor, NOT your shadow.

Just for the Halibut      by John Coffman   6/9/25

Duple, Improper

A1        Right Hand Star 3/4 (wrist hold star)  (8)

                Right and Left Through (across set)  (8)

A2          Hey  (16)

B1           Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2           Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

                  Circle Left 3/4, Pass Through Up and Down to face new neighbors  (8)

Variation:

B2          Long lines Forward and Back  (8)

                 Ladies Chain to N (8)

Face new Neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes:  In A1, men can give a little tug on their neighbor lady's wrist to pull into the right and left through.

Just Kitten Around        by John Coffman     8//7/2025

Duple,  Improper

A1      Right Hand Star 3/4 (8)

             Right and Left Through  (8)

A2       Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

              Neighbor Swing

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

              Partner Swing  (8)

B2       Neighbor Left Hand Balance, Swat the Flea  (8)

              Left Hand Star 3/4   (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Note:  In A1, men can give a little tug on their neighbor lady's wrist to pull into the right and left through.

Karen's Kool Kurls             by John Coffman    6/11

Duple, Improper                         {Written tor Linda Schrier's sister}              

A1      Mad Robin {men on inside first - see notes} (8)

          Pousette 3/4 {Start pousette with men pushing, ladies pulling - see notes} (8)

A2      1/2 Hey {pass partner by right shoulders to start - see notes} (8)

           Partner Swing (8)

B1      Circle Left 3/4 (8)

          Ladies Curl In to stand back to back in the middle facing their Neighbor. Pass Neighbor by Right

          Shoulders to start ½ Hey. {Men do exactly ½ Hey, Ladies do slightly more than ½ Hey} (8)

B2      Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

Start dance over with New Neighbors

Notes:  A1: Mad Robin is with NEW NEIGHBORS - men on inside first.  The Pousette 3 places ends with ladies standing back to back in the center; all are facing their partner; men are on their original side.

A2: 1/2 Hey: Pass partner by right shoulders to start; men do exactly 1/2 hey; ladies do slightly more than 1/2 hey

B1: The ladies curl at the bottom of B1 sets up the 1/2 hey that follows. I like to tell dancers that as they come out of the circle left 3/4, men should give the neighbor ladies a little tug {as they would do when rolling the ladies away - but you only do a partial roll away so the ladies end up back to back in the middle. That is, men roll the ladies away about 1/4 so the ladies end up back to back in the middle. {I like to instruct men to put their right hand in their pocket as I teach the curl (or ¼ roll away) figure. If men attempt to use their right hand (and many may), it will make this smooth figure clunky.} During the actual dance, this should happen fluidly, and the ladies don't actually have to line up exactly, back to back with each other.

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_r9RL-cW3Ho

Kathy's Conundrum      by John Coffman    approx 8/10

Duple, Becket

A1      Circle Left 3/4  (8)

          Neighbor Swing (8)

A2      Right Diagonal Ladies Chain {to shadow} (8)

          Chain Across (8)

B1      Long Lines forward and back (8)

          Circle Left 3/4 (6),  Pass Through {up & down} (2)

B2      Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Start the dance over with the new neighbors now across from you.

Notes: It might be helpful to have dancers identify their shadow before teaching the dance.  When standing in Becket formation, have dancers face their partners on side of set; their shadow is beyond their partner on same side of set.

In B, after the circle left 3/4 in B1, you are on the side of the set with your shadow.  Pass your shadow by right shoulders to find your partner for a balance and swing; this is where the progression takes place. After the partner balance and swing, dancers should find themselves across from new neighbors to start the dance over.

When standing out waiting for the pass through to the partner balance and swing, the ladies should stand on the right as they face back in.

Keep a Lid on It        by John Coffman    11/12

Duple, Improper                       written for the Mean Lids

A1      Long Lines Forward and Back; on way back out, Men roll {new} neighbor lady away with 1/2 Sashay {see notes} (8)

          1/2 Hey {men pass left shoulders to start} (8)

A2      Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1      Circle Left 3/4 (8)

          Partner Swing (8)

B2      Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

          Neighbor Swing (8)

Notes: A1: When starting the long lines, Men have new neighbor lady in their left hand; Men roll a NEW neighbor lady away {from the man's left to the man's right} each time.through the dance.

Kimmswick Kinnetics         by John Coffman    4/11

Duple, Becket

A1       Balance the Ring (4),  Petronella Spin 1 Place to the Right (4)

           Zag Right (2), Zig Left (2) to meet new neighbors {see notes}, With these new neighbors, Circle Left ½ (4)

A2      Ladies Turn In, Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1      Men Pull Across with Left Hands (2), Partner Allemande Right 1X (6), Men Pull Across with Left Hands (1), Neighbor

          Allemande Right 1X (6), Men Pull Across with Left Hands (1)

B2      Partner Balance and Swing (16)

The dance starts over with these same neighbors.

Notes: The progression takes place in A1.  There is no time for clapping after the petronella spin in A1.  The Zag and Zig is done by holding inside hands with your partner {man’s right joined to lady’s left}; couples move {Zag} to their individual right with men passing left shoulders as they move past their current neighbors.  Then all move {Zig} to their individual left to come face to face with new neighbors.

Klarmann's Right on Timed                   by John Coffman                9/30/25

Duple, Improper

A1   Neighbor Left Hand Balance (4), Swat the Flea {see notes} (4)

    Ladies Chain {to partner}(8)

A2   Left Hand Star 3/4  (8)

           Men Turn Out {back} Over Right Shoulder, Neighbor Swing  (8)  

B1    Circle Left 3/4  (8)

           Partner Swing  (8)   

B2   Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

        Men Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Notes: The "Swat the Flea" figure in A1 is a left handed "Box the Gnat."

Lady Luck               by John Coffman     Revised 3/13

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

Ladies Dos-Si Dos 1X (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Balance the Ring (4), Men pull {partner} Ladies to their side for a Partner Swing  (12)

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

Circle Left ¾ (6) Men Roll Neighbor Ladies Away with ½ Sashay {to face new neighbors} (2)

The roll away to face new neighbors in B2 is unusual.

Ladybug                     by John Coffman and Adam Hinton                5/2012

Duple, Improper

A1   Neighbor Left Hand Balance (4), Swat the Flea {see notes} (4)

    1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}(8)

A2   Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1   Circle Left 3/4 (8)

        Partner Swing (8)

B2  Long Lines Forward and Back; on the way back out, Men roll their Partner Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay  (8)

        Star Right 3/4 (8)

        Progress to next neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: The "Swat the Flea" figure in A1 is a left handed "Box the Gnat."

Lauren's Lagniappe            by John Coffman    7/11

Duple, Becket, Counterclockwise                         {Written for Lauren Peckman}

A1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

A2     Long Lines Forward and Back(8)

         Left Diagonal Ladies Chain {to your shadow}(8)

B1     Circle Right 1X (8)

         Shadow Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

 B2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Start the dance over with the neighbors now across from you.

Variation:

A1     Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B1     Star Left 1X (8)

         Shadow Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

Notes:  It is helpful to introduce dancers to their shadows before the walk through.  In becket formation, have dancers take hands in long lines; in one hand is their partner; in the other hand is their shadow.

End Effects: When standing out with your partner, position yourself for the left diagonal ladies chain.  When standing out with your shadow, stand out with the lady on the left and wait for your partner, OR, stand out with the lady on the right AND allemande your shadow by the left    1 1/2 in B1 to trade places.  Either way you should be in place for the partner balance and swing in B2.

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T67dFJv2IpE

or here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9qedx0Wm8c

Lavender and Lilac                 by John Coffman        12/12

Duple, Improper                      {Written for Peggy Lavender}

            A1       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       Circle Left 3/4(8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right (4)

            Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right {with a little extra twirl} to face new neighbors and start

            dance over (4)

Lazarus     by John Coffman    11/17

Duple, Improper

A1       Gypsy Star 1X (8)

            Neighbor Swing (8)

A2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

            Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2      Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right (4)

           Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl to face new neighbors and start dance over (4)

Notes: The Gypsy Star in A1 has the Men join right hands with each other, while the Ladies join Left hands with each other.  During the Gypsy Star, Men walk forward and Ladies walk backwards (clockwise when viewed from above).  If dancers join their free hands (Men's Left hand and Ladies' Right hand) with their neighbor during the gypsy star, the subsequent Neighbor Swing will flow nicely.

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnzF81mDcVQ

See it taught here: https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=H1i6Hx8uXkU 

Lazy Man I Won't Maintain     by John Coffman    5/13

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Balance and Star Through (8)

           Ladies Allemande Right 1½ (8)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

           Neighbor Swing (8)

B2       Hey {men pass LEFT shoulders to start} (16)

Notes: At the end of the star through in A1,the lady’s left hand will be connected to the man’s right hand.  I encourage the men to give the ladies a little tug to start them on their allemande right 1 1/2. 

A Lenny for Your Thoughts         by John Coffman     10/9/25

Duple,  Improper

During the first walk through, have dancers perform the last figure of the dance.  That is, have dancers: Neighbor Left Hand Balance and Swat the Flea.  Dancers will now be in position to start the dance.

A1      Modified Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start, ladies push back on second pass.  Men                      complete full hey}  (16)

A2       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Neighbor Swing  {8}

B2        Neighbor Right Shoulder Round {gypsy} 1X  (8)

              New Neighbor Left Hand Balance  (4),  Swat the Flea  (8)

Notes:

In A1, men complete the full hey; ladies push back during the second half of the hey.  Men end up on their original side, while ladies end up on the opposite side (men's original side).

The progression takes place during the second half of B2 with the new neighbor left hand balance.

Lenny Me a Hand                       by John Coffman     10/16/25

Duple,  Improper

A1      Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

             Promenade Across {with neighbor}  (8)

A2       Ladies Pass Right Shoulders, Partner Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Neighbor Swing  {8}

B2        Balance the Ring, Petronella Spin One Place to the Right  (8)

              Balance the Ring, Petronella Spin One Place to the Right  {spin a little extra to face new                        neighbors}  (8)

Start the dance over with new neighbors.

Lenny's Pennies                             by John Coffman     10/9/25

Duple,  Improper

During the first walk through, have dancers perform the last figure of the dance.  That is, have dancers: Neighbor Left Hand Balance and Swat the Flea.  Dancers will now be in position to start the dance.

A1     Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start}  (16)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Partner Swing  {8}

B2        Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

              New Neighbor Left Hand Balance  (4),  Swat the Flea  (8)

Notes:

The progression takes place during the second half of B2 with the new neighbor left hand balance.

Linda's Lovely Smile         by John Coffman    4/11

Duple, Improper

A1      Neighbor Allemande Right 3/4 to form short wavy lines {see notes} (4), Balance the Wave {R,L}, (4)

          ½ Hey {Neighbor pass Right shoulders to start – men do slightly more than ½ hey} (8)

A2      Neighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1      Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

          Partner Swing (8)

B2      Ladies Chain (8)

          Star Left 1X (8)

Progress to new neighbors to start dance over.

Notes:  A1: After the Neighbor Allemande Right ¾, all will end in a short wavy line; men will have left hands in the center, and all will have right hands with their neighbor; all will be facing opposite their direction of progression.  During the ½ Hey, ladies will go exactly ½ Hey; men will go slightly more than ½ Hey.

See it danced here:  http://dancevideos.childgrove.org/contra/contra-modern/167-lindas-lovely-smile.html

Little Bird Speak          by John Coffman     3/12

Duple, Improper

A1     Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

         Partner Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

A2     Promenade Across {men pass left shoulders} (8)

         Mad Robin {ladies inside first} (8)

B1     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2     Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right (4)

         Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl to face new neighbors and start dance over (4)

The Little Book of Rules     by John Coffman    approx 3/10

Duple, Becket

A1     Yearn Left, Long Lines (8)

         Circle Left ¾ (8)

A2     Nighbor Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1     Ladies Chain (8)

         Hands Across Left Hand Star 1X  (8)

B2     Ladies Turn Out, Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

Notes: In A1, all immediately lose their current neighbors with the "yearn left, long lines." That is, in long lines formation, all will shift one spot to their personal left as they go forward and back, so all will be across from new neighbors when they finish the "yearn left, long lines."

See it danced here:  http://www.youtube.com/user/johndcoffman#p/u/6/A0a0O2VHgRA

Little Jack Frost         by John Coffman     4/26/25

Duple,  Improper

A1      Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2  (8)

             1/2 Hey  {men pass left to start}  (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Circle Left 3/4  (8)

              Partner Swing  {8}

B2       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

              Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

Start dance over with new neighbors

Little Red Hen                 by John Coffman        12/6/18

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Circle Left 1/2  (4)  Men Roll Neighbor Ladies Away with 1/2 Sashay {ladies roll in front of men}  (4)

           1/2 Hey  {men pass left shoulders to start}  (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing  (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 1/2  (8)

            Partner Swing  (8)

B2       Balance the Ring  (4)  Spin 1 Place to the Right as in Petronella  (4)

             Balance the Ring  (4)  California Twirl  (4)

Face new neighbors to start the dance over.

Liz's Steady Hand      by John Coffman     4/12

Duple, Improper

A1        Ladies Allemande Right 3/4 (4) 

            Neighbor Swing (12)

A2        Circle Left 1/2 (4), Ladies Roll their Neighbor Man Away with 1/2 Sashay (4) 

            Ladies Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

B1        Partner Balance and Swing (16) 

B2        Balance the Ring (4), Petronella Twirl 1 Place to Right (4)

            Balance the Ring (4), California Twirl to face new neighbors and start dance over (4)

Notes: When teaching A1, it might be helpful to coach the men to take a step forward as the ladies allemande right {so the neighbor swing flows smoothly.}

See it danced here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yT9ijS2vcqc

or here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3UGAyRoaUc0&feature=autoplay&list=UUF_ExFYC6eUgoCdNsFQ0ADg&playnext=1

The Long and Winding Road         by John Coffman     12/10

Duple, Becket

A1       Left Diagonal Right and Left Through (8)

            Straight Across, Ladies Chain (8)

A2       Star Left 1X {all the way} (8)

With old {previous} neighbor, Allemande Right 1 ½ {These old neighbors are the same neighbors dancers did the left diagonal right and left through with in A1 – see notes} (8)

B1       Men Pass Left Shoulders to start ½ Hey  (8)

Old Neighbor Swing {same old neighbor dancers did the left diagonal right and left through with in A1 – see notes} (8)

B2       Circle Left ¾ (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

Notes:  All will progress two places with the left diagonal right and left through in A1.  In B1, all will un-progress one place when they allemande right 1 ½ with their old neighbor [for a net progression of one forward].

To teach the dance, I would have dancers take a hard look at the dancers on their left diagonal – call these dancers their old neighbors, and tell them they will come back to them.  Now, have dancers do a left diagonal right and left through with these old neighbors.

In A1, the ladies chain is with the neighbors now across from you. 

The Old Neighbor Allemande Right 1 ½  in A2  is with the neighbor dancers did the left diagonal right and left through with.

End Effects: Dancers are never really out in this dance.  If a couple finds themselves alone after the left diagonal right and left through, they should stand out with the lady on the right (as in most duple improper dances) so they can be ready for the allemande right with their old neighbors.  When waiting for the left diagonal right and left through, dancers should position themselves accordingly.

Looking for Nectar     by John Coffman    approx 7/10

Duple, Improper

A1     Neighbor, Right Hand Balance (4) Box the Gnat (4)

         Pull by Neighbor (up and down line) with Right Hands (2) to Allemande Left 1X Previous (Old) Neighbor (6)

A2     Back to First (current) Neighbor to Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Men Allemande Left 1 ½ (8)

         Partner Swing (8)

B2     Right and Left Through (8)

         Ladies Allemande Left 1 ½ to face a new neighbor (8)

End Effects: In A1,  your partner may become your neighbor on the ends when kicked out by the Neighbor Pull By.

Los Amigos     by John Coffman    10/12

Duple, Improper

A1     Circle Right 1X (8)

         Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

A2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B2     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

         Right and Left Through (8)

Notes: In B2, it is best to use a courtesy turn; twirling should be discouraged.

Love Is Kind     by John Coffman    4/13/14

Duple, Becket

A1       Circle Left 3/4 (8)

Neighbor Swing (8)

A2       Balance the Ring (4), Spin One Place to the Right as in Petronella (4)

             Partner Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

B1       Promenade Across {with Partner} (8)

1/2 Hey {Ladies pass right shoulders to start}(8)

B2        Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Slide Left with Partner to meet new neighbors.

Love is King                 by John Coffman        4/28/18

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos 1X (6)

           Neighbor Allemande Right 1/2, Men Allemande Left 1/2, Partner Box the Gnat (10)  {see notes}

A2       Hey {pass partner by right shoulders to start; men do exactly full hey; ladies do slightly more than full hey} (16)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B2       Balance the Ring (4); Petronella Spin One Place to the Right  (4),

             Balance the Ring (4); California Twirl to face New Neighbors (4)

Notes: In A1, there is no balance before the box the gnat;  after the box the gnat, ladies end up (more or less) back to back in the center facing their partner.

Love Me like a Lover     by John Coffman    approx 8/10, Revised 9/11, Slight Modification 6/18/18

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Star Through (4)

Men Pull Allemande Left 1/2 (3) Partner Allemande Right 1X (6) Men Allemande Left 1/2 (3)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

Partner Swing (8)

B2        Right and Left Through (8)

            Ladies Allemande Right 1 ½ to face new neighbors (8)

Notes: In A1, “star through” is man’s right hand to lady’s left hand; lady walks under man’s raised right hand; both finish the star through trading places and facing across the set.  At the end of the star through in A1,the lady’s left hand will still be connected to the man’s right hand.  I encourage the ladies to give the men a little tug to start them on their journey.

Low Bounce Tires                 by John Coffman        6/30/17

Duple, Improper                     

A1      Neighbor Balance and Swing (8)

A2       Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

            Right and Left Through (8)

B1       Ladies Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

            Partner Swing (8)

B2       Balance the Ring (4); Petronella Spin One Place to the Right  (4),

             Balance the Ring (4); California Twirl to face New Neighbors (4)

Luck Be a Lady         by John Coffman     1/12

Duple, Becket

A1       Ladies Chain {across} (8)

            1/2 Hey {ladies pass Right shoulders to start} (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Long Lines Forward and Back  (8)

Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 {to partner} (8)

B2       Partner Balance and Swing (16)

 Slide left with partner to new neighbors {to start dance over}

Lucky in Love         by John Coffman    4/11

Duple, Improper

A1      Zag Right (3), Zig Left (3), Zag Right (2) to meet new neighbors #3 {see notes}

          Circle Right 1X with these Neighbors #3 (8)

A2      Return to Neighbor #2, Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1      Circle Left ¾  (8)

          Partner Swing (8)

B2      Ladies Chain (8)

          Long Lines Forward and Back; on the way back out, ladies roll their neighbor man away with ½ sashay (8)

The dance starts over by Zagging Right with your partner.

Notes: Progression takes place in A1.  [Dancers progress forward two places, then back one place for a net progression of one forward.]  The Zag, Zig, Zag is done by holding inside hands {man’s right joined to lady’s left}; couples move {Zag} to their individual right to move past their current neighbors {men passing left shoulders}; then move {Zig}to their individual left to move past their second neighbors {ladies  passing left shoulders}; then move {Zag}to their individual right again to come face to face with neighbors #3. All should then circle right 1X with these neighobors #3.

During the walk through, I might have dancers pause after the final Zag; dancers should be face to face with Neighbors #3.  Before having the dancers circle right, ask them to turn around to meet neighbor #2, and tell dancers they will be coming back to this neighbor #2.  Then have dancers turn back around to face their {current} neighbors {#3}.  Have dancers circle right 1X with these neighbors {#3}, and look for neighbor # 2 as they complete the circle right.  Dancers will gypsy and swing neighbor #2/

B2 The lady rolls her neighbor man away with ½ sashay when backing up from the long lines.  All should then drop hands with their neighbors, and pick up inside hands with their partners to start the dance over {with a Zag to the right}.

Mac's Wise Decision            by John Coffman    7/11

Duple, Becket, Counterclockwise                         {Written for Mac McKeever}

A1     Circle Left 3/4 (8)

         Neighbor Allemande Right 1 1/2 (8)

A2     1/2 Hey {Men pass LEFT shoulders to start}(8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B1     Right Diagonal Ladies Chain {to your shadow}(8)

         Right and Left Through Across {keep left hands with your shadow, and face your shadow up and down the set - see notes} (6),

         Pull buy by {up and down}with Left hands to meet your partner on the side of the set (2)

 B2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Start the dance over with the neighbors now across from you.

Notes:  It might be helpful to introduce dancers to their shadows.  In becket formation, have dancers take hands in long lines; in one hand is their partner; in the other hand is their shadow.

B1: The right diagonal ladies chain is to your shadow.  The Right and Left Through across ends just a little short of a full courtesy turn.  {This move was choreographed by Jim Hemphill.}  Here, the man stops a little short of doing the full courtesy turn, so he and his shadow end up keeping left hands and facing up and down the set ready to pull by up and down the set.

Timing is tight in B1; if dancers get too far apart, they will find it difficult to balance and swing on time.  You may also need to discourage dancers from pushing apart after the right and left through in B1.

End Effects: As the caller looks out at the dancers, dancers will stand out with their partner on the caller's right side at the top of the hall, and dancers will stand out on the caller's left side at the bottom of the hall.  All will come back in with the right diagonal ladies chain to their shadow.

Progression takes place in B2.

Mad Money     by John Coffman    1/12

Duple, Improper

A1       Neighbor Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

1/2 Hey {ladies pass right shoulders to start} (8)

A2       Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

B1       Men Allemande Left 1 ½  (8)

Partner Swing (8)

B2        Right and Left Through, Men Roll the Ladies {partner}Away with  1/2 Sashay (10)

            Right Hand Star 3/4 (6)

Look for new neighbors to start the dance over.

Made in America         by John Coffman     2/21/19

Duple,  Improper

A1      Neighbor Balance and Swing (16)

A2       1/2 Hey {men pass left shoulders to start}  (8)

               Men Allemande left 1 1/2  (8)

B1       Partner Balance and Swing  (16)

B2       Circle Left 3/4, Pass Through Up and Down  (8)

              New Neighbor Dos-Si-Dos 1X  (8)

Progression takes place in B2 with the pass through up and down

Mae's Maze        by John Coffman    4/11

Duple, Improper                         {Written for Mae Ylagan}

A1     Hands Across Left Hand Star 1X (8)

         Men push off and loop out over their own right shoulder WHILE Ladies Allemande Left 1X (8)

A2     Neighbor Pull By with Right Hands (2), Men Pull By with Left Hands (2), Partner Swing (12)

B1     Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B2     Ladies Allemande Right 1 X (8)

         Ladies keep Right Hands for a Hands Across Right Hand Star 1X (8) {Men step in BEHIND your partner

         to start the right hand star.}

         After turning the right hand star, push off to look for new neighbors to start the dance over.

Notes: A1: In my experience, the men loop right needs to be demonstrated with an emphasis on using about 6 beats of music; otherwise, men tend to stand around waiting on their neighbor lady.  In B2, men allow the ladies to allemande right 1X, then fall in behind their partner {in front of their neighbor} to start the hands across right hand star.

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1L2okXAcBs0

Maginel's Magical Mushroom     by John Coffman    3/11

Duple, Becket                                                                  {Written for Jim and Mary Maginel}

A1     Circle Left 3/4 (6), Pass Through {up and down by right shoulders} (2)

         Next Neighbor Allemande Left 1X (8)

A2     Return to first (original) Neighbor to Gypsy and Swing (16)

B1     Right Diagonal Ladies Chain (8)

         Star Left 1X (8)

B2     Partner Gypsy and Swing (16)

Start the dance over with the neighbors now across from you.

Notes: Progression takes place in B2

Maginel's Mushroom Makeover      by John Coffman    4/11

Duple, Becket, Coutnerclockwise                                             {Written for Jim and Mary Maginel}

A1     Circle Left 3/4 (6), Pass Through {up and down by right shoulders} (2)

         Next Neighbor Dos Si Dos 1X (8)

A2     Return to first (original) Neighbor to Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Long Lines Forward and Back (8)

         Left Diagonal Ladies Chain with a Courtesy Fling {to your shadow - see notes} (6), Pull buy by with Left hands to meet your

            partner on the side of the set (2

 B2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

Start the dance over with the neighbors now across from you.

Notes:  It might be helpful to introduce dancers to their shadows.  In becket formation, have dancers take hands in long lines; in one hand is their partner; in the other hand is their shadow.

B1: The left diagonal ladies chain with a courtesy fling is to your shadow.  Jim Hemphill choreographed the “courtesy fling” move mentioned in B1.  In Jim’s words: “The move I call the courtesy fling starts out like the courtesy turn.  With the courtesy turn after a ladies chain the man does a full 360 degree turn to face back in.  In the courtesy fling, the man stops his turn 3/4 of the way around . . . while retaining the left hand connection.  The move ends with the couple facing each other and up and down the set holding left hands and ready to . . .” pull by up and down the set.

Progression takes place in B2.

The Magpie's Nest    by John Coffman   5/10/18

Duple, Becket                                                              

A1     Circle Left 1/2 (4), Ladies Roll Partner Man Away with 1/2 Sashay (4)

         1/2 Hey {Ladies pass LEFT shoulders to start} (8)

A2     Partner Balance and Swing (16)

B1     Men Allemande Left 1 1/2 (8)

         Neighbor Swing (8)

B2     Balance the Ring (4), Ladies pull Partner Man to their {ladies'} side to Swing (12)

Slide Left with Partner to start the dance over with new neighbors.

See it danced here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkztQ2oKOKk