[Nepenthe]

The longest section of the DVD covered audience participation and tips, and the commentary was voiced over a series of video clips from live performance experiences, from restaurants to private parties. I myself learned to dance in restaurants by watching closely other dancers in restaurants, so to me, this is the perfect way to get the information across. The first concept we hear, and one that is repeated often, is that the restaurant/party dancer is not just a dancer. She is a hostess and cruise director. She helps the audience to loosen up. Michelle's attitudes toawrds performing mirror mine, but I had to learn mine through live performances. I wish I had had this video two years ago! We learn from Maria that it's okay to let a dancing audience member outshine you. In fact, it's a compliment if your dancing inspires everyone to get up to dance with you. Many dancers mentioned going around to tables, greeting patrons, and even making jokes. And Michelle answered a question that I've been wondering about - yes, it's okay to dance on tables and there is a method to not falling off!

Tipping was another big discussion. Some dancers take body tips and some don't. Zaheea has a unique method of taking tips in a pot, and discussed why she felt it was more effective and comfortable for her, and for her audience. Michelle, Maria, Summer Sahar, and Sandra all appeared to accept body tips, but discussed how they manage tipping to ensure "good behavior". Michelle offered several different techniques to make tipping fun and interactive. Just as important, the fact that tipping is just an extra was highlighted. You should not be overly concerned with the quantity of tips. You should not stoop to pick up the money on the floor. And if someone looks like a shady character, you do not have to accept a tip from them.