Square dance

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Square Dance diagram from Playford's English Dancing Master

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Dance. Square Dancing at North Branch Y.M.C.A BAnQ P48S1P06773

Quadrille set five person set colonial ball at the Albert Hall

Square dance at the Concord Scout House, April 2022

Square dance is a form of folk dance that is particularly popular in the United States. It involves four couples (a total of eight dancers) arranged in a square, with one couple on each side, facing the middle of the square. Square dance is characterized by a series of dance movements that the dancers execute in response to calls from a caller. The caller provides instructions on the sequence of steps, which include handholding, circling, and other simple movements. The dance is set to a variety of music types, traditionally country music or western music.

History

The origins of square dance can be traced back to the 17th century in England, Ireland, and Scotland. It was brought to North America by European settlers, where it evolved over time, incorporating elements from other dance forms. In the 19th century, square dance became a popular form of social entertainment in rural areas of the United States. The modern western square dance, which is standardized and features a wide range of calls, developed in the 20th century.

Types of Square Dance

There are mainly two types of square dance: traditional square dance and modern western square dance.

Traditional Square Dance

Traditional square dance includes a variety of regional and historical styles. In traditional square dancing, the calls may be simple and the sequence of movements is often repeated. Traditional square dances do not require dancers to memorize a large number of calls and are generally more improvisational.

Modern Western Square Dance

Modern western square dance, on the other hand, is more structured and involves a defined set of calls. Dancers must learn these calls to participate. The Callerlab, the International Association of Square Dance Callers, has established a list of official square dance calls, which are categorized into programs or levels of difficulty.

Cultural Significance

Square dance holds a significant place in American culture. It is the official state dance of 19 states in the United States. Square dancing events, known as square dance conventions, attract thousands of dancers from around the world. These events not only showcase the dance but also foster a sense of community and tradition among participants.

Attire

Traditional square dance attire is often associated with the American West. Men typically wear long-sleeve shirts, western-style pants, boots, and sometimes cowboy hats. Women wear dresses or skirts that are designed to flare out during the dance. However, dress codes vary widely among different square dance clubs and events, with some requiring traditional attire and others adopting a more casual approach.

Conclusion

Square dance is more than just a dance form; it is a vibrant part of American heritage that continues to evolve. It brings people together, celebrating community and tradition through music and movement. Whether in a traditional or modern style, square dance remains a beloved social activity for many.

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