WHEEL

The Wheel is a Waltz or Two-Step figure, but it is used in other rhythms as well. In any of a variety of positions or hand holds, such as banjo, right-right hands, bolero, or sombrero, the couple walks in a clock-wise circle around an imaginary spot between them. We might make one full turn in two measures of music, or we might be told to Wheel to a designated position and orientation. Choreography can also have us Wheel in a counter-clockwise circle. In waltz, the steps are forward turning to the right, forward, close; fwd, fwd, cl; In two-step, the steps are forward, close, forward; fwd, cl, fwd; Sometimes the Wheel is done with all forward steps and therefor more progression (and perhaps less rise and fall in waltz). A syncopated waltz wheel might be danced with a tempo of 1&2&3&;
The Wheel is a simple figure. We are just walking in a circle. Two measures of music is a fairly long period of time, so we have the opportunity to do more than just walk. We can always use such time to create little "mini-pictures" that are representative of the music and our moods at that moment. Sway slightly toward partner or away, and match body lines in a symmetrical shape. Turn your upper bodies toward each other so that shoulders are parallel and there is a connection and an awareness of each other. Extend the arms in a complementary way. In the DeFores' Lynn's Waltz, part C begins in butterfly banjo facing wall with a banjo wheel 6 to the right to sidecar;; and then a wheel to the left to face wall again;;—lots of time for shaping, expression, and a pretty picture.
Photos © F. Lepretre; P. Sosabowski; from Dancesport UK photo gallery.