So I'm having an argument with the owner of a local Dance supply store.
in a way she's right. on the other hand I'm still pissed.
in a way she's right. on the other hand I'm still pissed.
I bought three pairs of gymnastic slippers for the show we did on last weekend. (for students- not for myself)
I've been recommending this style of shoe for YEARS. and her store for years. normally if we'd had time I would have made everyone buy their own shoes but ... I just figured if I picked them up it would be faster
the shoe ripped almost immediately partway through the first song on Saturday.
She thinks I have no right to expect a shoe like this to hold up to dancing on asphault or cement. On the other hand - I've been wearing and recommending this shoe for YEARS and I should have a reasonable expectation that a shoe should maintain consistency & perform the same for everyone.
her opinion is that there are no shoes suitable for dancing on outdoor surfaces. and we should wear sneakers.
of course!
why didn't I think of that!
maybe we could tie little coins & beads to the laces?
she doesn't know a single instructor who would permit their children to dance on such a poor surface.
when I pointed out that I teach adults -
that's even worse because they are
a) heavier and harder on the shoes
b) should know better than to treat shoes that way.
"it's like buying a fine leather coat and rubbing up against a brick wall. you wouldn't do that would you?"
so she's offered to replace THIS pair. but - never again. and she won't sell me anymore shoes for outdoor use.
small worry there.
as if I'm going to continue to deal with her.
She also suggested that I stretch a tarp over the surface we are to dance on to protect our feet or dance barefoot. because dancing in the shoes would ruin them.
Perhaps I'll just magic up a dance surface and roadies to truck it in and assemble it for us. and air conditioned dressing rooms and perfect weather. and appreciative audiences and cabana boys with refreshing beverages.