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Helpful Suggestions
for Better Dancing
Below are the Basic Points of Square Dance Etiquette
RULE #1 IS COME AND HAVE FUN!!
Be On Time for Club & Classes- One late couple or person may mean the 3 other couples or 7 people might sit out until you arrive. The Caller leans heavily on the first & last dances or "Tips" to pace the evening. Try Not to Leave Early- Leaving early may leave the impression that you didn't have a good time. There are certainly understandable reasons for occasionally leaving before the end of the dance, but as a general rule- try to avoid doing so. Personal Care- This is VERY important to Square-dancing. Make sure to apply a good Anti-perspirant & wash hands before coming. You are going to sweat & if you smell offensive, nobody will desire to partner with you. Don't forget to sweeten your breath with a mint or gum before hitting the dance floor. (Garlic, onion or cigarette breath can be offensive) Freshening your clothes after a dance will keep outfits from smelling musty. Airing a dress before the dance will also help. Light perfumes are a plus, but don't go heavy on the scent- some people are allergic.
Form a Square Quickly- When the Caller announces "Square your sets", join the nearest square that needs a couple. When looking for a square, raise your hand as you move across the dance floor. If your square is not full, raise your hand with as many fingers extended as couples are needed. If 2-3 couples are squared up, but do not have a hand up- they are waiting for someone who has promised to dance with them.
Good Listening- Square dance is based on listening to calls & ques. When announcements are being made, it is best not to be a distraction. Pause for a moment and give your full attention- that way you won't miss anything. While resting on the sidelines, try to keep chatter down, so those who are watching the dance to learn can hear the calls that are being made.
Courtesy- Introducing yourself and your partner to others in the square if you don't know them helps everyone feel more comfortable. Thank your square after the tip. Fancy kicks & twirls may interfere with what everyone else is doing- use good judgement. Leaving a square before the tip is over- unless it's an emergency will inconvenience the other dancers. If possible, recruit someone to take your place before stepping out.
Cooperation- Square-dancing is an activity where everyone is responsible for creating a happy atmosphere. A square is made up of 8 individuals working as a unit to make the tip a success. No one person is there to show off individually, but to do their part to help the square run smoothly. Wrecks happen from time to time. You will find dancers to be good-natured when this happens- it's just part of the fun. Smile & try to catch up again. If you are more advanced, be patient with beginners- remember, you were once in their shoes. Take it Easy- Square-dancing can be strenuous exercise. If your feet hurt or you are too tired to dance, sit out for a tip. Remember, if your heart is beating really fast- never sit down right away- unless you are about to pass out. Walk to the bathroom or refreshment table, pace around the sideline & let your heart slow gradually before you sit. Over time, your endurance will increase.
Have A Good Time- Come to the dance determined to create a pleasant atmoshere! Leave your cares behind and enjoy the event. Petty gossip, jealousies & fault-finding have NO place at the dance- these conjure up negative feelings. Always be gracious to visitors and new members.
Manners Count- Part of Square-dancing is behaving like Ladies and Gents. Bad language, crude jokes & racial slurs have no place at the dance. Friendly Conduct- Dancers often congratulate each other after a tip by hugging- however, some people are not comfortable with touching. If a handshake is offered, don't insist on a hug. One arm, or side-to-side hugs are preferable to a full hug. Be Sure to Visit the Great Sites Below
Cleveland, TN Recreation
Find activities in the Bradley County area
The Heritage Dancers
Learn more about American Folk Dances. Beautiful pictures!
55th National Convention
June 21-24, 2006 -- San Antonio, TX
The Foundation
The Foundation for the Preservation of Square Dancing
Dixie Round Dance Council
Resources & Workshops for Round Dancers
A.R.T.S.
The Alliance of Rounds, Traditional and Square Dance
National Association of Suppliers
The National Association of Square & Round Dance Suppliers
Line Dancing Site
Line Dancing Tips, Choreography, etc.
Allamande Hall
Visit gorgeous Dance Hall in Chattanooga. Holds classes in Square Dance, Round Dance & Clogging
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