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All dances are taught and called. Figures common to all these dance styles, such as allemande, do-si-so, balance, swing, forward
and back in lines, circle left and right, star by the right or left, thread the needle, corkscrew, promenade, etc. are explained
and/or demonstrated.
CONTRADANCE
Dancers line up in two facing lines. In a whole-set dance, figures are normally done with your partner, and the top couple
progresses to the bottom each time through the dance so that a new top couple leads each time through the dance. Otherwise,
figures are done with your partner or with the couple standing next to you, and couples move one place up or down the set
each time through the dance.
SQUARE DANCE
Also called quadrille. Four couples in a square formation (like sides of a box). Many figures in common with contradancing.
CIRCLE DANCE
Couples stand next to each other, dancing with each other and also with the couples on either side. Couples may change
partners if the dance is a mixer dance. In a Sicilian circle dance, two couples face each other and progress around the circle
moving from couple to couple with each change of the music. Many figures in common with contradancing.
COUPLES DANCE
Dances done with one partner exclusively. The waltz and the schottish are familiar examples.
STEP DANCE
Rhythmic footwork as an accompaniment to the music. Step dancing can be done solo or as part of any of the above dance
styles. We do step dancing in the Quebcois, Cape Breton, and Irish styles. Musicians may also tap their feet as a rhythmic
accompaniment to the music.
FOLK DANCE
May be done in any number of a variety of formations, in groups, couples, or as individuals.
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