Dance Fieldwork Diary (January 23, 2013)

I called Rosaria today to arrange an interview time.  She mentioned that she was quite busy and asked how long the interview would take as she would have to read up on Charleston beforehand.  I replied that the interview would take no more than an hour and I did not need her to update me on Charleston history, rather that I was interested in her own personal opinion and experience of Charleston.   Her voice sounded relieved and she suggests we meet early one night before the class at Cockpit Theatre to conduct the interview.   I silently wonder about her original offer of going to her studio in Croydon but agree to her suggestion.  

Rosaria then spoke to me about the next block of Charleston courses she wants to run after this current lot finish and a Charleston social night she is trying to set up at the Phoenix Club in Soho.   I offer to help publicise these events once conceived.   She repeats several times throughout the conversation how she needs support to make these events happen and I am unsure whether she is airing her thoughts or seeing if I am interested in helping her in a more substantial way.

She then mentions a diversity grant  she is thinking of applying for through Oval House and asks whether I am interested in this.  I am unsure what exactly she is referring to.  After further questioning it transpires that Rosaria wants to do a show on diversity, working with women from all generations.  We agree to meet up early before the class this Friday to discuss this .

After I hang up, I feel quite overwhelmed as I know full well I have no time to commit to any additional project or activity.  I feel discomforted as I feel a sense of obligation towards Rosaria.  Not only that but I also have a genuine interest in developing my Charleston skills and working with her further so there is a push-pull within me as it is something I would like to do.   But my schedule will not allow for it until I have finished this Ethnographic Fieldwork module.  I resolve to be clear to her about this when we next meet.  I also feel that whilst I know Rosaria is a great dance teacher, I have not yet been able to place her as a person.