There is a dance that is new to me and maybe to you too. It is a dance that is “as old as the hills.”
My good friend, Amy, who is always trying new things, filled me in on this enchanting activity that is good clean fun, great exercise, and a place to meet friends and smile.
Have you ever heard of Contra Dancing?
Well, one site describes it like this: “If Swing Dancing and Square Dancing met in a bar, you’d get Contra.”
- It is similar to square dancing but not the same.
- It is considered a social dance that you can attend without a partner, but is danced in pairs.
- It is danced in long lines and couples progress up and down the lines dancing with each other and other couples in the line.
- There is a caller who teaches the sequence of figures before the music starts.
- The music can be Irish, Scottish, old-time, or French Canadian folk tunes.
- It is impossible not to smile at the music.
- The fiddle is the core instrument, but can also feature the guitar, banjo, bass and mandolin.
Contra is a folk dance with mixed origins from English country, Scottish, and French dance styles in the 17th century and African influence from Appalachia. Sometimes described as New England folk dance or Appalachian folk dance, Contra Dances can be found around the world as well as in most US states.
Check out Contra Dancing in your state or community. Guaranteed to make you smile!
Virginia Views 