QuickSilver Country Dancers, Inc.
Atlanta, Georgia


About Contra/ECD Calendar Join Email List For Parents Directions Contact Us Donate! Dance Technique Dance Links Home


Gender-free American Contra & English Country Dancing 


About Contra Dancing:

Contra dancing is a form of American folk dancing with traditional American and Celtic music. The moves are similar to square dancing, but they are done in long lines up and down the hall. Couples progress along these lines, dancing with other couples as they go, so that everyone dances with everyone else in that line.


About English Country Dancing:

English Country dancing is a form of folk dancing which has earliest documented instances in the late 16th century.  It is considered to be the precursor to American Contra Dancing and has similar moves.  "ECD" (as it is called) is commonly danced to classical music, and is done in short sets or long lines up and down the hall.  Like in Contra, couples may progress along the lines, dancing with other couples as they go.


No Prior Experience Needed!

All
QCD dances are taught beforehand, then the moves are called during the dance.  In addition, all QCD dances have a Newcomer's Orientation starting at 1:30 p.m. 
This is a teaching session, during which the caller will teach some of the basic dance figures and will explain how the dance is oriented and some basic dance conventions. Newcomers to English and contra dancing are encouraged to attend this workshop, but it is not required.  Most moves are done at an easy walking pace.


No Partner Necessary!

It is a tradition in this form of dancing to encourage dancers to dance with different partners for each dance, so you don't have to bring a partner, spouse or friend to the dance in order to join in! QCD dances are a great way to get mobile, get social, and meet new people!


QCD Dances
:

 The regular dance runs from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m., and an informal group goes out to dinner afterwards at a local restaurant.


About Gender-free Dancing:

Traditional dances are called with distinct gender roles, and opposite sex couples are the norm.  Gender-free dancing is an opportunity for dancers to come together and dance in a friendly, non-gender-oriented environment. During the dance, dancers can choose to dance either role, regardless of their gender. Dancers may dance with an opposite sex partner, or a same sex partner. And, the caller uses non-gender terms instead of "ladies" and "gents" to call the dance.


For more information about local, regional and nationwide dances resources, check out our dance links page.
 

 


Home  About Contra/ECD  Calendar  Directions  For Parents  Join Email Group  Contact Us  Dance Links    


© 2006 Quicksilver Country Dancers, Inc.  This web site was created by Barbara Katz, www.bekatzlaw.com