The Ultimate Guide to Advanced Plus & Challenge Square Dancing
Discover the intricate world of higher-level programs and find the perfect community to test your limits.
Welcome to the exhilarating world of Advanced Plus and Challenge square dancing—where precision, skill, and teamwork converge to create an art form that challenges both mind and body. If you've mastered the Mainstream, Plus, and Advanced levels and find yourself craving more complexity, faster calls, and deeper connections with fellow dancers, you're ready to explore these elite programs.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about these highest levels of modern square dancing—from what distinguishes each program to how you can find or build a community that shares your passion for this intricate dance form.
Understanding the Levels: From Advanced to Challenge
| Program Level | Number of Calls | Focus & Complexity | Typical Dance Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced (A1 & A2) | ~180-200 calls | Extended applications, formations, and concepts | Moderate to brisk |
| Advanced Plus (A-1/A-2) | Additional 30-40 calls per level | Increased conceptual difficulty, more intricate timing | Brisk |
| Challenge 1 & 2 (C1/C2) | ~250-300 calls | Abstract concepts, non-standard formations | Fast |
| Challenge 3 & 4 (C3/C4) | 350+ calls | Highly abstract, minimal cueing, extreme precision | Very fast |
Beyond Advanced
The Advanced Plus program serves as a bridge between Advanced and Challenge dancing. It introduces concepts that require greater spatial awareness and more precise execution.
What to Expect
- Faster pacing than Advanced but more structured than Challenge
- Increased emphasis on flow and continuity
- Introduction of more abstract concepts
- Greater focus on dancer intuition and less on explicit positioning
Skills Required
To excel in Advanced Plus, dancers need solid Advanced fundamentals, quick recall of less frequently used calls, and the ability to adapt quickly to new concepts.
The Pinnacle of Square Dancing
Challenge dancing represents the highest levels of modern square dancing, with programs divided into four tiers (C1-C4), each increasing in complexity and abstraction.
Key Characteristics
- Extremely precise body movements and positioning
- Abstract concepts that may defy visual cues
- Minimal call cues from callers
- Emphasis on "dancing by definition" rather than by pattern recognition
- Rapid-fire calling with complex sequencing
Mental & Physical Demands
Challenge dancing requires intense concentration, rapid processing of complex information, and precise physical execution. Dancers often describe it as "chess at 120 beats per minute."
The Importance of Community
At these elite levels, having a consistent group of dancers at similar skill levels is crucial. The community becomes your practice partners, teachers, and support system.
How to Find Groups
- Attend Advanced dances and inquire about Plus/Challenge groups
- Connect with callers who specialize in higher-level programs
- Join online forums and social media groups dedicated to Challenge dancing
- Attend square dance conventions and festivals that offer higher-level workshops
Starting Your Own Group
If no existing group meets your needs, consider starting one. You'll need:
- 4-8 committed dancers at similar skill levels
- A caller experienced with the program level
- A regular practice space and schedule
- Learning materials and a structured approach
Mastering the Material
Success in Advanced Plus and Challenge dancing requires dedicated practice both on and off the dance floor.
Effective Practice Techniques
- Regular attendance at club dances and special workshops
- Study groups to review calls and concepts
- Using simulation software and online resources
- Cross-training with other dance forms to improve movement quality
Mental Preparation
Develop visualization techniques to mentally rehearse calls and formations. Many top dancers study call definitions and conceptual diagrams to deepen their understanding.
Remember: Progress at these levels is measured in years, not months. Be patient with yourself and your fellow dancers.
Ready to Take Your Dancing to the Next Level?
Join the vibrant community of Advanced Plus and Challenge square dancers who are keeping this beautiful art form alive and evolving.
Find a Club Near You Learning Resources
