What is Square Dancing?
American Square Dancing has been described as "Friendship and Fun Set to Music".
It is suitable for singles and couples and is for all ages. The basic step is just that — one foot in front of the other, walking to rythym — easy!
The dances are made up of a number of called moves, so dancers only need to know what each move is, not the whole dance.
It is very easy to pick up, and you will soon learn the basic moves and be able to dance the routines called by the callers.
It offers fun, friendship, exercise, coordination, and dexterity to anyone who would like to have a go.
Those with no skills yet will be able to join a beginner's course and in the space of a few short weeks can become competent dancers.
The moves are divided into several levels, so you don't have to learn them all at once — most people never go beyond the first one or two levels.
The first level, or "programme" is Mainstream, which you will usually learn in about a year. After that there are Plus, two Advanced programmes and three Challenge programmes. There is a little more information in our FAQ.
The British Association publishes a regular magazine with letters and articles about Square Dancing, and which lists dances which are held all around the country throughout the year.
Although closely associated, Round Dancing is usually considered to be more like Sequence Dancing, except that the steps are "cued" so that the dancers don't have to remember all of the dances!
You can find a brief history of Square Dancing here on the British Asscoation's web site.
Copyright © 2007, Tudor Squares American Square Dance Club, or as otherwise credited.
