Invite to Non-Societal Straight Dancers

[CHEROSAGE]

I have been reading many Threads for many years on this site. I believe that much of the problem that many of us have observed is that there are many dancers out there who have never been to nor ever seen any of the Tribes Society Dances of which ever name, ours is the InLonShka for each of the 3districts.

I open this up for discussion. My thoughts are that if these newby Straight Dancers would observe these Ceremonies and learn what our customs are about. I know we have a bench for those Guest who come to help our districts out. The Whipmen makes the determination where and if you sit. This is a learning point for those who have never seen Hundreds of Straight Dancers on one dance ground. This is an Awsome sight to be seen and a way to learn what we are about.

My hope is that we visit as Gentlemen. I know that there are many many more folks out there who know much more and are better dancers than I am. I would like my good friends to give conversation on this and expanded topics. All of you Gentlemen who dance at our InLonShka's etc please join in. I believe we need to educate the many. I know Historian has a wealth of knowledge as does most of the rest of you. Let's share. Thanks.

[Iowa_Boy]

I have been reading many Threads for many years on this site. I believe that much of the problem that many of us have observed is that there are many dancers out there who have never been to nor ever seen any of the Tribes Society Dances of which ever name, ours is the InLonShka for each of the 3districts.

I open this up for discussion. My thoughts are that if these newby Straight Dancers would observe these Ceremonies and learn what our customs are about. I know we have a bench for those Guest who come to help our districts out. The Whipmen makes the determination where and if you sit. This is a learning point for those who have never seen Hundreds of Straight Dancers on one dance ground. This is an Awsome sight to be seen and a way to learn what we are about.

My hope is that we visit as Gentlemen. I know that there are many many more folks out there who know much more and are better dancers than I am. I would like my good friends to give conversation on this and expanded topics. All of you Gentlemen who dance at our InLonShka's etc please join in. I believe we need to educate the many. I know Historian has a wealth of knowledge as does most of the rest of you. Let's share. Thanks.

I had the extreme pleasure of attending several of the Osage Inlonshkas one summer. The entire experience, from the camps to the arbor was amazing. As a fancy dancer it was a whole new world. I learned and experienced alot in those weekends in Oklahoma, everyone who straight dances should at least WATCH one of these, Ponca, Osage, or Comanche, before they call themselves a straight dancer.

[rodond]

i agree how can one be a straight dancer without a least knowing where it came from and being a part of it

[WhoMe]

Uh, I enjoyed afterhour activities with a BUNCH of straight dancers after the Inlonshkas in each district. Does that count? *L j/k

[Mato Mahe]

Agreed, these dances are moving to watch and an honour to be involved in.

Too bad so many will not partake in them, since there is no prize money, they are not interested. Sad, very sad.


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[CHEROSAGE]

Uh, I enjoyed afterhour activities with a BUNCH of straight dancers after the Inlonshkas in each district. Does that count? *L j/k

I think that could count, especially if you can remember it. I have been to many after dance dinners. Usually I go to the house, shower, eat drink lots of water/gatorade and time permitting find a seat at the Casino. you know we may ahve been to the same gathering at sometime or another.

This invite is for the Women also. There are times when the ladies dance around us as long as they a re out before the Tail. It would be good for the Ladies to know what goes on so they can help their men look and do well. My Wife makes sure I have a t least one nice new shirt each year. My family makes sure teh shirts are clean, ironed and I'm presentable enough to walk down to the dance. Talk about the primping that goes one, WOW. They pick out my suits, shirts, scarfs, everything. I just put them one so they can straighten me out. Ladies you have more at stake than just making sure we look good as we represent our families. there are many behind the scene obligations that you are traditionally resposible for. I must admit that I'm not the one to ask about this matter. Infact this is awhole new topic.

More confusing thoughts, sorry. My good friends from the Village could fill in some more thoughts and most likely would do a better job than I have.

[standnbear]

newby

I am getting my regalia together now for straight dancing. talking to friends, reading on here, and research on the web has given me a pretty good understanding of the straight dance, but i would give anything to learn in the old way. step by step,learning the history of every part. When I step out for the first time as a straight dancer I want to do it in a respectful maner. I dont want to look like a first timer my first time.

[standnbear]

i just completed my new mocs. i made these from scratch and beaded them myself.....what do yall think?

[CHEROSAGE]

They look gooood to me. They look nice and soft. Good bead work.

[Historian]

Uh, I enjoyed afterhour activities with a BUNCH of straight dancers after the Inlonshkas in each district. Does that count? *L j/k

lol