During the 2020 COVID-19 lock-down period, the whole nation became amateur epidemiologists  and knowledgeably discussed weighty matters such as community transmission, flattening the curve  and social distancing. The daily one o’clock briefings from the Prime Minister and Director General  of Health became a daily fixture in many households as we eagerly awaited news about the number  of new cases and whether we were flattening the curve. 

The dance depicts some of the changes to our daily routines such acknowledging friends from afar  on our daily walks, swerving off the footpath to keep two meters from other walkers and queuing  for groceries. Finally lockdown ends and we are all able to mix again. 

Devised by Andrew Oliver during the 2020 COVID-19 lock-down.  
Recommended music: The Magic of Merrill (The Reel of Seven)  

Above dance information supplied by the deviser, Andrew Oliver.  

'The Amateur Epidemiologist' was chosen for a book of dances published to commemorate the Wellington Region’s 60th Anniversary. The Region forms part of the New Zealand Branch of the RSCDS.  

The video was taken at the Linden SCD's annual dance earlier this year. Andrew is dancing as first man.  

Live music was by the Saltire Band: Jason Morris, Mary McDonald, Ann Goodbehere and Duncan McDonald.