A Gift To Be Simple

If one thinks of religious dance in America, the Shakers always come to mind, for they were a religious sect for whom dance was an integral aspect of worship. Founded in England, they came to the East and Midwest in the late eighteenth century and created many songs and dances to express their delight in God. "A Gift to Be Simple" is one of the best known examples of their dances and songs. This dance was taught to Carla DeSola by a person living in the vicinity of a Shaker village. Opening formation: a circle, all facing center. "It's the gift to be simple, it's the gift to be free": All take four steps toward the center, beginning with the right foot (r, l, r, l). Hands are held in front of the body about waist height, palms facing upward. Initiated by a gentle wrist movement, the hands pulse upward and downward. (This up and down movement with upturned hands was thought of as a gesture to receive grace. ) "It's the gift to come down where we ought to be": All take four steps …