The Facing Couples Rule

"Some calls, which normally start from ocean waves, can also be done when dancers are in facing couples (e.g. swing thru, spin the top, fan the top, etc.)  In this case, the dancers first step into a momentary right ocean wave and complete the call unless the caller specifically directs a lefthand call (e.g. left swing thru, etc.) in which case the dancers step into a momentary left hand ocean wave and complete the call.  Exceptions to this rule are listed in the body of the definitions."  (Callerlab: Basic & Mainstream Definitions, Revised 12/10/93)

What this means to you as a dancer is that you need to be aware of your formation.  There are countless times in Square Dancing when you are facing another couple (Eight Chain Thru, Trade By, Facing Lines).  The rule specifies that you are able to do a call involving an Ocean Wave from facing couples.  For example, from a static set:  Heads Square thru 4, Spin the Top.  You step to a wave (right), and proceed with the call.  You do not revert to facing couples at the end of the call. 

Remember, however, that Do Sa Do, called from facing couples does not end in an ocean wave, but a call involving an ocean wave (Swing Thru) could be called because of the facing couple rule.  

          There are two versions of the call Recycle:  one on the Mainstream list beginning in ocean waves, and one on the A-2 list from facing couples.  A Recycle from facing couples is only legal at A-2 and above.  Each version of the call Recycle may only be done from it's specific starting formation – in other words, you don’t step from facing couples to an ocean wave and then recycle. 

John Oldfield