[Tango-L] Womans' Front Cross

[Jake Spatz (TangoDC.com)]

Christopher,

ceverett at ceverett.com wrote:
>
> The step before the woman's front cross is always an open step
THIS is not necessarily so.

E.g.--

(1) One may lead step 4 of the 8CB (with or without its predecessors) as 
a back cross step-- i.e., to the leader's right-- and then lead the "5," 
effecting a CW turn (or not).
(2) (Same as above, different context) One may lead the normal cross 
during back ochos, as something resembling what I might call an 
"arrepentida cortada." (Unlike the above context, this one usually begs 
for a pause afterward.)
(3) One may (esp in a very close embrace) lead to the cross from 
nowhere, by using a pivot to place the follower's leg and then a weight 
change to effect the cross. (Unlike both of the above, this one usually 
IS a pause.)

I've heard things about "the code of walking" too, from reputable 
people. But I'm unconvinced. Perhaps it has value as a stepping-stone 
for students. My current practice, however, is to shy away from things 
the student will have to unlearn.

(This approach, I admit, may not prove the best; but it's the one I've 
stuck to for a while and the one I intend to stand by for some time yet.)

Jake
DC