What happens during a contra dance?
Contra dances are community events. At almost any contra you will find people of all ages and all dance skill levels, from young to old, beginner to expert. Contra dancers form a very open and welcoming group of people. Come alone or with others since it is a tradition to dance with a variety of partners throughout the night. It is perfectly acceptable for either a man or a woman to ask someone they haven't met before to dance. You will find contra dancing a great way to make new friends.
It is an evening of fun featuring traditional social "set" dances. You don't need to know what to do! A caller teaches the dances. In a contra dance, you and a partner dance a series of figures with another couple. Once you complete the series, you and your partner repeat the same moves with each couple in a long line of dancers until the music ends. Contra dancing is easy to learn, the music is lively, and the dancing is vigorous. You interact with your current partner, and everyone else in the set, as you dance with easy steps to live music. A caller explains the figures in each dance while walking the dancers through them. As the music begins, the caller will continue to cue each move. An evening traditionally ends with a couples dance like a waltz.
What do I need to participate?
Energy and Enthusiasm! Wear comfortable clothes, since this is an aerobic activity and you will get warm! Typical dress ranges from shorts and t-shirts to twirly dresses. To protect the wooden floor, we ask our dancers to bring a pair of clean, soft-soled shoes that will not damage or mark the floor. Admission is usually $6, and we always have live music!
How do I join in the fun?
New dancers will benefit by attending the introductory workshop held about 7:45 before the dance begins to learn the basic moves. You will be part of a living tradition passed on by the experienced dancers helping the newcomers. It is also best to join in the very first dance of the evening with an experienced partner. Getting started by letting other dancers guide you is much more effective than watching!
When and where are the dances?
Our weekly dance is from 8-10 pm on Tuesday nights with a introductory lesson at 7:45. We usually dance at the Athenaeum located at 401 E Michigan Street just northeast of downtown Indianapolis at the intersection of Michigan, Massachusetts, and New Jersey St, across from the Murat Theatre. The Athenaeum houses the YMCA, American Cabaret Theater, and the Rathskellar. Use the theatre entrance for easiest access. There is usually street parking available. We also have special Saturday and weekend dances.
