Gaining Perspective

Happy Birthday to Sheer!

By Joel Torgeson

Three years ago today, this wonderful publication took flight and began it’s life in the dance world. I’m quite happy to say that I’ve been here for every month since then, with a few guest-writers to fill the gaps when I was abroad in Kenya. The publication has grown and changed over the months and years, and it’s been an interesting process to be a part of. In celebration of Sheer’s third birthday, I’d like to take a moment to appreciate three of the things I’m most proud of this publication for:

1. Great tone. There are a few things that make a killer magazine, but my favorite is the tone with which Sheer greets the world. I inevitably get the impression that I’m talking to an old friend. To be fair, many old friends of mine write for Sheer, but I think that misses the point. A publication that succeeds in its readability is a good one.

2. The freedom to explore. Perhaps even more than tone, the license to pursue and create thoughts on partner dancing off the beaten path is a wonderful thing. I’ve read detailed descriptions of competition preparation alongside social critiques of how partner dancing normalizes gender roles. Creating the foundation upon which discussions can flow is important, and we do it.

3. Commitment to quality. A top-notch magazine should look, feel, and read like a top-notch magazine, and the Sheer team does this in spades. From gripping cover art to aesthetic layouts, I’m always happy to open Sheer’s cover and look inside. Am I biased? Absolutely. However, I think the point stands.

37 months is a lot of writing, but I’m glad to still be a part of Sheer. If you’ve ever had a dance musing you’ve considered sharing with others, please send it in. Don’t be shy, the water’s just fine! I look forward to reading you on these pages.

And, as always, see you out on the floor.