Step by Step: A Comprehensive Guide to Square Dance Moves and Techniques

Introduction

Square dancing is a traditional American folk dance that has been enjoyed for centuries. It involves four couples arranged in a square, with each couple facing the middle of the square. The dance is led by a caller who gives instructions on the moves and steps to be performed. In this guide, we will take you through some of the most popular square dance moves and techniques, so you can get started on the dance floor.

Basic Moves

Promenade

The promenade is a fundamental move in square dancing. It involves the two people in each couple walking around the outside of the square, holding hands and facing each other. To perform the promenade, follow these steps:

1. Face your partner and hold hands.
2. Walk around the outside of the square, keeping your inside hand up and your outside hand down.
3. As you walk, keep your eyes on your partner and maintain a comfortable distance from the other couples.
4. After completing one full rotation around the square, return to your original position and release hands.

Dosado

The dosado is another basic move in square dancing. It involves two couples facing each other and performing a series of moves, including a left-hand turn and a right-hand turn. To perform the dosado, follow these steps:

1. Face your partner and hold hands.
2. Move forward and back in a rocking motion, while maintaining eye contact with your partner.
3. On the caller's instruction, release hands and turn to face the couple on your left.
4. Hold hands with the couple on your left and perform a left-hand turn, moving in a circle around each other.
5. On the caller's instruction, release hands and turn to face the couple on your right.
6. Hold hands with the couple on your right and perform a right-hand turn, moving in a circle around each other.
7. Return to your original position and face your original partner.

Advanced Moves

Swing

The swing is a more advanced move in square dancing that involves two couples facing each other and performing a series of moves, including a promenade and a swing. To perform the swing, follow these steps:

1. Face your partner and hold hands.
2. Perform a promenade around the outside of the square, as described in the basic moves section.
3. On the caller's instruction, release hands and turn to face the couple on your left.
4. Hold hands with the couple on your left and perform a left-hand turn, moving in a circle around each other.
5. On the caller's instruction, release hands and face your partner.
6. Place your right hand on your partner's shoulder and your left hand on their waist.
7. Perform a swing, moving in a circular motion around your partner.
8. After completing the swing, return to your original position and face your partner.

Conclusion

Square dancing is a fun and social activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. By mastering the basic moves and techniques, you can join in on the fun and make new friends in the process. So grab your dancing shoes and get ready to square dance!