I’m not really sure how to start this post, other than awkwardly. Get a bunch of dressed up seventh graders in a room and tell them to dance the waltz, and what do you get? Awkwardness.
That’s really what I was expecting to photograph when I was assigned to go to a cotillion class in Lakeway for the Statesman, but I was honestly surprised that the little Freds and Gingers held their own…sort of.
The Lakeway Chapter of the National League of Junior Cotillions, is much like other cotillion programs where young men and women learn social graces like etiquette, how to set a table (and which fork to use), how to formally greet their peers, and of course, how to dance at a party. Stepping on each others toes and giggling are just part of the fun.
They started the class with a review of how to set a table. It’s harder than it looks.
Then they began the dance portion of the program, starting with a bow and a curtsey.
Okay, now a waltz demo…
And finally the real dancing…
Hey you, this is serious!
Every dance had a different partner, and the gentlemen would always return the ladies to their seats.
Then they practiced their grand entrance, planned for a party later this month. A head couple was chosen by the teacher and everyone followed with only mild confusion.
Last thing on the check list – teach your parents. …Talk about awkwardness.
Click here to read the Statesman’s story by reporter Nicole Villalpando.