Who we are

 

Ask a group of contra dancers to describe contra dancing and you will probably get many different answers. Basically, contra dancing is a high-spirited dance that can be elegant, lively and most importantly, fun!

Based upon Old English and New England country dancing, with some aspects of American square dancing blended into it, the dances are danced to Irish, Celtic, Old English, Early American and modern 'traditional' tunes that are played by live bands.

Callers

Dances are led by a Caller and each dance is walked through before the start of the dance. The dances are a blend of a fairly small group of movements:

• Allemandes
• Stars
• Do-Si-Dos
• Lots of Swings
• Several other older and modern movements

Dance choreographers arrange the different movements into unique dances. It is the caller's job to match the dance to the music and the skill level of the dancers.

Dancing

There are two main phases to Contra Dancing:  the first is learning the movements and the second is dancing these movements. All dances are performed with a simple 'walk step' and 8-beat timing is used in all Contra dances. In some dances, dancers may be swinging 50% of the time.

Beginners are sometimes surprised by the amount of spinning and swinging that is part of the dance. To prevent dizziness, a secret of Contra Dancing is to look your partner in the eyes while swinging, or pick a spot on their face and keep your concentration there.

While most dances are danced from contra lines, some dances are danced in circles and, often, several square dances will be danced.

Before the break and at the end of the evening, it is traditional to dance a few waltzes.

About That Swing

Be respectful of the person you are swinging. Don't dance or swing too closely (as in pressing yourself against your partner) or dance suggestively unless you are absolutely sure your fellow dancer wants you to dance/swing with them like that. Never do so with a minor or newcomer.

It is appropriate for any dancer to ask a partner or neighbor, please not to swing so fast. For those that do like to swing, you can experience what some have called, “the most fun you can have outside of an amusement park”. While fun and lively, all dancers should always be under control to prevent injury to fellow dancers.

Inappropriate

If a fellow dancer does anything to you that you deem inappropriate, let them know. If you cannot tell them during the dance, then do so afterwards. If they continue, notify the dance organizers. Dancers who exhibit offensive behavior repeatedly will be asked to leave.

Dances are non-drinking and non-smoking events.

Partners

A unique feature of Contra Dancing is the fact that dancers will dance with dozens of other dancers during each dance. It is the norm to find a new partner for each dance. One of the best ways to learn to Contra Dance is for beginner dancers to ask an experienced dancer for a dance. It is totally acceptable for ladies to ask gents to dance. Beginners should also not be surprised if an experienced dancer sometimes asks them for a dance. Dances are much more enjoyable when all dancers understand the dance.

Dances include dancers of all ages.

Good Dancing

Hallmarks of good dancing include:

• Dancing in rhythm with the musical phrase
• Using a smooth, easy walking step
• Paying attention to the caller and to other dancers
• Maintaining eye contact with your partner and others in the set
• Giving weight with your partners
• Keeping a sense of space and awareness of other dancers as you move through the set

Giving Weight

The concept of 'giving weight' can best be understood when thinking of a handshake. Sometimes people have what is termed a 'limp fish' handshake, while others have overpowering handshakes that hurt the hand. The preferred handshake is the firm handshake that lets others know that there is another human attached to the end of the hand, but doesn't have to be overpowering to communicate.

'Giving weight' in Contra Dancing is the same. When in contact with your partner and fellow dancers, there should be a connection between the dancers that is neither too little or too much pressure, but 'just right'. Finding that correct amount with all the different dancers is part of the human interaction that is part of the dance.

Timing

It is also important to maintain timing so that the flow and beauty of the dance can be appreciated. If dancers lose the timing of a dance, the best way to regain the timing is to stop and then restart the dance together and on time. And, giving eye-contact, as mentioned earlier, is another element of Contra Dancing and will quickly become apparent as you dance Contra.

For more about Contra dancing, visit Gary Shapiro's site.

Beginners

Beginners are always welcome. Prior experience or a partner are not required.

Orientation for newcomers begins around 7:30 at All Saints Academy (unless we're dancing in an alternate venue) and includes a teaching session for the basic figures and courtesies. All the dances are taught, and you'll learn best by dancing with accomplished dancers. Easier dances are usually taught early in the evening. Beginners and experienced dancers are welcome to attend these teaching sessions as long as they desire.

Children

Children are welcome to dance with us! For the safety of all, children in the dance hall must act appropriately and parents are responsible for their children's actions.

Attire

Contra dancers are an eclectic group, so many styles are worn. Many dancers wear long or short flowing skirts while others dress just to keep cool. Contra Dancing is a very active form of dance, and cool clothing is recommended.

Grab your dance shoes and come on over for some FUN!

Thank you to Earl Cook (Atlanta dancer) for permission to use this excellent dance information