Okay, this is from two years ago—but bears repeating! The Spotted Lanternflies are back! So here we go:
The Stages of the Life of a Lanternfly
A new dance crazy has captured Kendal. We’ve noticed it on the terrace, the surrounding sidewalks, even in the cul-de-sac. It is called the Lanternfly Hop.
The dancer stands erect, then slowly, fluidly advances. He—or she—slowly raises one leg in a march-like step, then stomps (!), followed by a quick hop towards the retreating lanternfly. This is followed by another glide, stomp, hop, until the dancer raises arms in victory or loses interest—or energy—and retires.
At times of victory, a movement similar to the 1960s Twist or the Mashed Potatoes is added at the end of the stomp. The Lanternfly Hop can be undertaken by partners or individuals (as in the Watusi or Frug). It can also be a group activity ala a square dance, with a caller directing movements (“That one! That one! Get that one!”)
Some dancers add lyrics to the music in their heads: “Dammit!” “Son-of-Bitch!” or, in victory, “Gotcha!” These are, however, not required.
As of this time, no official song or orchestration accompanies the dance. If anyone would like to provide one, we encourage recording it (along with dance in video, if possible) and sending it our way. We will post it on the Residents Website for the edification of the community.