What is contra dance?
Contra dance is a lively, free-flowing social dance, usually done to Celtic style reels and jigs. A dancer and their partner join long lines that run the length of the hall. Each couple dances with the next couple in line, performing the movements of the called dance. Once the sequence has been completed, one couple progresses up the hall and the other down, dancing with each couple they encounter. The caller walks through the steps before each tune and then calls while we dance.
For a website that goes into more detail, see: defining contra dance.
What does Gender Role-Free mean?
Traditional contra dance is called with terms that reference the gender of the dancers. Our Gender Role-Free contra uses instead the terms "Larks" and "Robins" to differentiate the two different roles. Larks start the dance to the left of their partner, with Robins on their right. Everyone can dance either role!
Is experience necessary?
No prior experience is necessary. Contra dance is extremely beginner-friendly for several reasons:
Do I need to come with a partner?
Not at all. Contradance is a great way to meet people, so even if you do come with a partner, you are encouraged to dance with as many other dancers as possible. Not only does it introduce you to new people, it will also make you a better dancer. It is traditional in contra dancing to ask a new person to dance for each dance.
What does it cost?
Admission to the dance is $15 (students $12).
New dancers will receive a coupon to return for $5 off. Returning dancers get $5 for bringing new dancers.
What clothes and shoes do I wear?
Loose fitting casual clothes are best. The dances are vigorous, so shorts and t-shirts are perfect. Long, light-weight skirts and dresses are fun.
Soft-soled, non-scuffing shoes please. Our dances are usually on wooden floors, so shoes that allow a little slide are best.
Are straight dancers welcome?
EVERYONE is welcome.
Contra dance is a lively, free-flowing social dance, usually done to Celtic style reels and jigs. A dancer and their partner join long lines that run the length of the hall. Each couple dances with the next couple in line, performing the movements of the called dance. Once the sequence has been completed, one couple progresses up the hall and the other down, dancing with each couple they encounter. The caller walks through the steps before each tune and then calls while we dance.
For a website that goes into more detail, see: defining contra dance.
What does Gender Role-Free mean?
Traditional contra dance is called with terms that reference the gender of the dancers. Our Gender Role-Free contra uses instead the terms "Larks" and "Robins" to differentiate the two different roles. Larks start the dance to the left of their partner, with Robins on their right. Everyone can dance either role!
Is experience necessary?
No prior experience is necessary. Contra dance is extremely beginner-friendly for several reasons:
- There's no fancy footwork; you simply walk with a little bounce in your step.
- Each dance is taught and then prompted by the caller throughout the dance.
- A beginners lesson is offered before every event! This is a great way to get the basics.
- Callers make a point of beginning the evening with easy dances in order to accommodate brand-new dancers.
- You'll find most experienced contra dancers in our community happy to lend a helping hand as you wend your way through the dance
Do I need to come with a partner?
Not at all. Contradance is a great way to meet people, so even if you do come with a partner, you are encouraged to dance with as many other dancers as possible. Not only does it introduce you to new people, it will also make you a better dancer. It is traditional in contra dancing to ask a new person to dance for each dance.
What does it cost?
Admission to the dance is $15 (students $12).
New dancers will receive a coupon to return for $5 off. Returning dancers get $5 for bringing new dancers.
What clothes and shoes do I wear?
Loose fitting casual clothes are best. The dances are vigorous, so shorts and t-shirts are perfect. Long, light-weight skirts and dresses are fun.
Soft-soled, non-scuffing shoes please. Our dances are usually on wooden floors, so shoes that allow a little slide are best.
Are straight dancers welcome?
EVERYONE is welcome.