Gender-free Contra 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.
Each dance is taught beforehand, then
the moves are called during the dance. Everyone is encouraged 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!
Contra is a great way to get mobile, get social, and meet new people!
QCD Dances:
All QCD dances have a Newcomer's Orientation starting at 7:30 p.m. This
is a teaching session, during which the caller will teach some of the
basic dance figures (balance and swing, dosidos, allemandes, etc.) and will explain
how the dance is oriented and some basic dance conventions.
Newcomers to contra dancing are encouraged to attend this workshop, but it is not
required. Most moves are done at an easy walking pace. The
regular dance begins at 8:00 p.m.
About Gender-free Contra Dancing:
Traditional contra is called
with distinct gender roles,
and opposite sex couples are the norm. Gender-free dancing is an
opportunity for dancers to come together and contra 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 contra dancing and gender-free dancing, check
out the resources on our
dance
links page. |
