Welcome to the Wonderful World of Square Dance!

Square dancing isn't just a nostalgic relic from the past—it's a vibrant, social activity that's experiencing a modern renaissance. Whether you're looking for a fun way to exercise, meet new people, or connect with cultural traditions, square dancing offers something for everyone. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of your journey from complete beginner to confident caller.

Step 1: Getting Started - The Basics

Before you even step onto the dance floor, it's important to understand what square dancing is all about. At its core, square dance is a social dance for four couples arranged in a square, with one couple on each side facing the middle. A "caller" directs the dancers through various movements and patterns.

Essential Terminology

Familiarize yourself with these basic terms:

• Square: The formation of eight dancers in four couples
• Caller: The person who calls out the dance moves
• Home Position: Your starting position in the square
• Partner: The person you're dancing with
• Corner: The person diagonally across from you

What to Wear

While traditional square dance attire includes petticoats and western wear, modern square dancers typically wear comfortable clothing that allows for movement. The most important consideration is comfortable shoes with smooth soles that allow you to pivot easily.

Step 2: Mastering the Fundamental Moves

Square dancing is built on a foundation of basic movements. Master these, and you'll be able to handle about 70% of all square dance calls.

The Core Movements

These are the building blocks of square dance:

• Circle Left/Right: All eight dancers join hands and circle in the specified direction
• Forward and Back: Dancers move toward the center and back to place
• Do-Si-Do: Two dancers pass right shoulders, move behind each other, and return to place
• Swing: Partners connect at the forearm and walk around each other
• Promenade: Couples walk counterclockwise around the square

Step 3: Understanding Calls and Patterns

As you progress, you'll encounter more complex calls and patterns. The caller uses specific terminology to direct the dancers through increasingly intricate formations.

Common Call Patterns

Most square dance calls follow predictable patterns. Learning to recognize these will help you anticipate what's coming next:

• Get-Out Moves: Calls that return dancers to their home positions
• Trade Moves: Calls that involve exchanging positions with other dancers
• Formation Moves: Calls that create specific shapes or patterns

Step 4: Developing Your Skills

Once you're comfortable with the basics, it's time to refine your technique and expand your repertoire.

Step 5: Advanced Techniques and Calling

For those who want to take their square dancing to the highest level, learning to call adds a completely new dimension to the experience.

Becoming a Caller

Calling requires musicality, clear diction, and the ability to think several moves ahead. Many callers start by practicing with recorded music before calling live.

Challenge Level Dancing

Advanced dancers often participate in "challenge" level square dancing, which features extremely complex and rapid-fire calls that require intense concentration and skill.

Step 6: Joining the Community

Square dancing is as much about community as it is about dance. Getting involved in the square dance community will enhance your experience and accelerate your progress.

Finding Your Tribe

Look for local square dance clubs, workshops, and festivals. Many communities have beginner-friendly groups that welcome new dancers with open arms.

Competitions and Events

As your skills develop, consider participating in square dance competitions or demonstrations. These events are great opportunities to showcase your abilities and learn from others.