This week we learned a new dance section. It had a real county/western feel. I noticed it felt a little easier than the first week. There were moves that felt as though we were riding a horse, or that we were the horse and sometimes a cowboy. Or in my case, a cowgirl. 
    Sylvian is a great teacher, he makes the learning process fun and easy. He's always smiling, very patient, and has a great sense of humor. Jamie is an assistant dancer who guides us when we turn to face the back of the formation. Sylvian and Jamie are on raised platforms so we can easily follow along with the steps.
    Many people come to rehearsals early to review the previous section. Many of us continue to practice during the breaks. Every week Paul, the co-founder of White Bird, attends the rehearsals. This week he brought a special guest, Barney, the White Bird mascot. It was such a special treat.
    This week I realized the enormity of this project. I've practiced these two sections many times and in the actual performance they comprise only a few minutes. There is so much more to this dance yet to come. Sylvian reminded us this week that we should have fun while we're dancing, that that is what people want to see at the performance. My focus in rehearsal is on putting energy and expression in the movement and that comes through confidence and really knowing the steps.

Roxanne Patruznick