Modern Square Dancing
What is Modern Square Dancing?
Square Dancing is a social activity where eight people form a square with 2 people on each side, then dance a series of movements as "called" by the square dance caller. It is a healthy, recreational, fun activity. It is often said that square dancing is "Friendship Set to Music". Dancing is done to a variety of music, 50's and 60's to 80's and 90's or later - from Pop, Rock, Country, even Classics and Broadway show tunes. In Modern Square Dancing there are no set patterns for a dance. The dancers learn a number of moves which the caller then puts together to form the dance. The caller "calls" out these moves and the dancers execute the "calls". The dancers do not know which moves will be called next. The callers strive for smooth flowing movement. |
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The evening or afternoon dance is made up of 10 to 12 tips (segments). Each tip typically consists of a pattern where people learn or practice specific moves and sequences, followed by a singing call (considered the dessert). This is where the specific learnings from the pattern are featured in a song. Calls are embedded in the singing of the song by the caller.
How do Modern Square Dancers learn the movements?
Anyone can learn to become a square dancer by joining a square dance club where the movements are mastered. New dancers enjoy an evening of fun while being taught the movements by the caller.
Where do people Square Dance?
Modern Square Dancing is a worldwide activity. Square dance calls are standardized and are called in English around the world. Once dancers have learned the calls, they can dance at any club or square dance event for that specific level of dance (e.g. basic, mainstream, plus, etc.)
How do I Join a Club?
Many clubs exist throughout Alberta. On our web site, communitydance.org, you will see the clubs listed in Edmonton and surrounding communities. You are welcome to dance at multiple clubs, to help you learn. Please call the club contact to learn more about starting to dance. They can answer your questions, and welcome you to our activity. No special clothing is required. Please bring clean non marking shoes. We would love to see you out on the dance floor!
How do Modern Square Dancers learn the movements?
Anyone can learn to become a square dancer by joining a square dance club where the movements are mastered. New dancers enjoy an evening of fun while being taught the movements by the caller.
Where do people Square Dance?
Modern Square Dancing is a worldwide activity. Square dance calls are standardized and are called in English around the world. Once dancers have learned the calls, they can dance at any club or square dance event for that specific level of dance (e.g. basic, mainstream, plus, etc.)
How do I Join a Club?
Many clubs exist throughout Alberta. On our web site, communitydance.org, you will see the clubs listed in Edmonton and surrounding communities. You are welcome to dance at multiple clubs, to help you learn. Please call the club contact to learn more about starting to dance. They can answer your questions, and welcome you to our activity. No special clothing is required. Please bring clean non marking shoes. We would love to see you out on the dance floor!