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What
is Contra Dancing ?
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In contra dancing, the dancers form "sets" of two parallel
lines that run the length of the hall. We dance to live music from the
Scots-Irish or French Canadian tradition, usually played on fiddle,
accordion, banjo, piano, or guitar. Each dance consists of a sequence
of moves similar to the figures in old-time square dancing and other
traditional dance styles. As the sequence is repeated, the couple progresses
down the column, dancing with every other couple in the set. Each dance
is taught by the caller before it is danced.
Feel like Giving It A Try ?
No partner? No problem! It is traditional to change partners for each dance, so you dance with many different people in an evening. Dress casually and comfortably in layers. You will be moving vigorously! Bring comfortable, soft-soled shoes. Your feet will thank you.
In contra, experienced and beginning dancers easily dance together. Contra dancers form a community of friendly, active people that is welcoming to new dancers of any age. We hold a "contra basics" session before each dance, to help newcomers learn the lingo and the moves. Please join us at 7:00 p.m. on dance evenings in the room on the right near the stage.
For more information:
Contact us or read the following articles about contra dancing:
- Hamilton
Country Dancers website:
- Contra Dance Primer, written by Les Francey and Farrell Boyce
- Detailed Contraculture webpages written by Steve Nagy
- Hands Four
by By Greg Rohde scrolled to "What is Contra Dancing".
Once you know the basics, there are further articles well worth reading, for the info or just for a laugh.
- "The
Top Ten (plus) Things That Make a Good (Contra) Dancer" from
Jonathan Sivier's website.
- "Tips For Experienced Dancers Dancing With Beginners" from Jonathan Sivier's website
- "More Ways to Swing than You Probably Want
to Know" by James Williams and Dana Nau.
- "Good Contra and Square Dancing Defined" by Paul Tyler