Rainbow
Intermediate Level
Going deeper — techniques and nuances for experienced dancers
An overhead arm arc that traces a rainbow shape over the follower's head — a traveling lasso that changes position.
Intermediate focus
Chain the rainbow with turns and wraps. A rainbow followed by a lasso creates a continuous overhead phrase. A rainbow into a cuddle position transitions smoothly because the arm is already overhead. Practice rainbows in both directions and with both hands. Experiment with speed: a slow rainbow over 8 counts for musical effect versus a quick rainbow over 2 counts as a transition tool.
Tips
- •Think of the highest point of the rainbow as directly above the follower's head. The arc should clear her by at least 6 inches.
- •Leader: keep your elbow soft throughout. A straight, locked arm creates an ungraceful geometric line; a soft arm creates a true arc.
- •Practice the rainbow arm path solo with a scarf or ribbon — the fabric should flow smoothly, never jerk.
Common mistakes
- •Making the arc too low, forcing the follower to duck under the arm
- •Rushing the rainbow, making it look like a hand wave instead of a deliberate arc
- •Not allowing the follower enough space to turn underneath the arm path
- •Using a rigid arm instead of a flowing, soft elbow through the arc
Practice drill
With a partner, do 10 rainbows from left to right, then 10 from right to left. On each one, the follower rates the comfort on a 1-5 scale. Adjust height, speed, and width until every rainbow scores a 5. Then chain alternating left-right-left rainbows for 32 counts of music.