Square Dance Terminology: Dosado, Corner, Promenade

Square dance terminology constitutes a unique language within the realm of folk dance that describes the figures in a square dance. The term “Dosado” refers to one of the dance movements, where two dancers circle each other back-to-back. The “corner” is a dancer’s position relative to the others in the square. The ” Promenade” is a couple dance position in a square dance.

Ever felt like you stepped into a whole new world when you tried square dancing? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! It’s like learning a secret language, full of “Allemande Lefts” and “Dosados” that sound more like spells than dance moves. But trust me, once you crack the code, it’s a blast! Square dancing is a fantastic way to get some exercise, meet new people, and have a good old-fashioned hoedown. It’s like a social gathering_ meets a puzzle game, all set to lively music.

That’s exactly why we’re here today! This blog post is your __ultimate cheat sheet__ to the often confusing world of square dance terminology. We’re going to break down those baffling terms into bite-sized pieces, so you can strut your stuff on the dance floor with confidence. Think of it as your Rosetta Stone for the square dance language.

Why bother learning the lingo? Well, imagine trying to navigate a foreign country without knowing a word of the local language. You’d probably get lost, order the wrong food, and end up in some hilarious (but potentially awkward) situations. Same goes for square dancing! Understanding the terms allows you to fully participate, follow the caller’s instructions, and truly enjoy the dance. Plus, it saves you from accidentally bumping into your partner or ending up facing the wrong direction.

Now, before we dive in, a quick note: square dancing comes in a few different flavors. You might encounter Modern Western Square Dancing, Traditional Square Dancing, or even some regional variations. While many terms are universal, there might be slight differences depending on the style. So, keep your ears open and be prepared for a little local flavor! No matter the style, the core fun remains the same.

The Key Players: Roles in the Square

Square dancing isn’t just about fancy footwork; it’s a team sport performed to music. So, who are the key players in this lively game? Let’s meet the stars of the square! Think of it like assembling your favorite sports team, except instead of cleats and jerseys, we have do-si-dos and denim. And don’t worry, no athletic skills are required—just a willingness to laugh and learn!

The Caller: The Voice of the Dance

Ever wonder who’s in charge of this whole shebang? That would be the Caller. Imagine them as the coach, the narrator, and the DJ all rolled into one.

• Definition: The Caller is the individual who directs the dance by calling out instructions. Their voice is your GPS for navigating the dance floor.

• Responsibilities: A good caller isn’t just shouting instructions; they’re guiding you through the steps, adapting to the skill levels of the dancers (from “two left feet” beginners to seasoned pros), and ensuring the dance flows smoothly like a well-oiled (and very fun) machine.

• Qualities of a good caller: Think of a voice that’s clear as a bell, timing that’s sharper than a tack, and an ability to teach that would make Mr. Miyagi proud. They’re not just calling steps; they’re building confidence and creating a good time for everyone.

Dancers: The Heart of the Square

Now, let’s talk about the people who are actually doing the dancing—the Dancers!

• Definition: These are the participants who execute the caller’s instructions, transforming words into motion.

• Importance of Teamwork, Listening, and Adapting: Square dancing isn’t a solo act; it’s all about teamwork. Listening to the caller is crucial, but it’s equally important to be aware of your fellow dancers. Things don’t always go perfectly, so being able to adapt and recover with a smile is key!

• Etiquette: Being courteous, offering a helping hand (or foot!) to those who are struggling, and maintaining a positive attitude will make you a square dance superstar! Remember, it’s all about having fun, so leave your ego at the door and bring your best dance spirit.

Partner and Couple: Dancing as a Unit

Ah, the dynamic duo—the Partner and Couple!

• Definition: A pair of dancers who work together as a unit, moving in sync and supporting each other through the calls.

• Traditional Gender Roles (with a Modern Twist): Traditionally, square dancing often had defined gender roles, but modern square dancing is much more flexible. Feel free to dance with whoever you like, regardless of gender! The important thing is to work together as a team.

• Importance of Coordination, Communication, and Mutual Respect: Just like any good partnership, communication is key. A gentle nudge, a reassuring smile, or a well-timed “You got this!” can make all the difference. Most importantly, treat your partner with respect and appreciate their contribution to the dance.

Navigating the Square: Key Positional Terms

Before we jump into the steps, let’s get acquainted with the geography of the square. Think of it as your dance floor address.

Head Couple(s) and Side Couple(s)

• Definition: The Head Couples are the two couples who start facing the caller (or with their backs to the caller). The Side Couples are the two couples who start on the sides of the square.
• How Initial Positions Influence the Dance: These initial positions determine who starts which movements and can influence the flow of the entire dance. Knowing your starting position is like knowing your starting point on a treasure map!

Corner

• Definition: Your Corner is the dancer diagonally across from you in the square.
• Importance in Calls like “Allemande Left”: You’ll be interacting with your corner quite a bit, especially in calls like “Allemande Left.” Think of them as your dance floor neighbor, someone you’ll be turning and twirling with quite often!

Opposite

• Definition: Your Opposite is the dancer directly across from you in the square.
• Role in Calls and Formations: You’ll often be moving towards or interacting with your opposite in various calls and formations. They’re the dancer you’ll be facing off with in the friendliest way possible!

Formations: Building Blocks of the Dance

Ever wonder what you’re actually building on that dance floor, besides maybe a little sweat? Well, in square dancing, formations are key! They’re the patterns and shapes dancers make together, and understanding them is crucial to knowing where to go and what to do. Think of them as the blueprints of your dance adventure. Get the blueprint wrong, and, well, you might end up bumping into your corner (whoops!). We are going to provide a visual guide for you to understand better the formation!

The Fundamental Square

Ah, the square itself – the mother of all formations! This is where it all begins: four couples, each forming a side of a square. This is the most important starting point. So, what do you do to ensure a properly formed square?

• Make sure each couple is facing the center.
• Couples should be approximately equidistant from each other.
• Keep your square tight, but not cramped. Imagine you’re fitting snugly into a perfectly square pizza box. (Okay, maybe not that snug!)

Lines and Waves: Linear Formations

Ready for something less boxy? Lines and waves bring a bit of fluidity to the mix! Instead of a square, dancers arrange themselves in rows or lines. A classic example is the Ocean Wave, where dancers line up and undulate like, well, an ocean wave!

• Description: Dancers arranged in rows or lines.
• Examples: Ocean Wave.

Circles: Unity and Movement

Time for some togetherness! When dancers join hands and form a circle, it’s all about unity and shared movement.

• Description: Dancers joined hands in a circle.
• Uses: Circle Left/Right, Allemande Ring.

Stars: Centralized Formations

Now we’re getting fancy! Stars are formed when dancers join hands in the center, creating a star shape. This formation is dynamic and visually striking.

• Description: Dancers join hands in the center to form a star.
• Variations: Right-hand star, left-hand star.

Essential Movements and Calls: The Dancer’s Lexicon

Alright, buckle up, partner! Now that you know the who’s who and the where’s where of square dancing, it’s time to dive into the what’s what. This is where we decode the calls that make the dance happen. Think of it as learning a new language – a language of do-si-dos and allemandes! Don’t worry; we’ll break it down nice and easy, step-by-step. You’ll be “swinging your partner ’round and ’round” in no time!

Turns and Twirls: Let’s Get Dizzy (in a Good Way!)

• Allemande Left: This one’s a classic! It’s a left forearm grab with your corner (the dancer diagonally across from you). You walk around each other, then back to your partner. Here’s the step-by-step:
  1. Face your corner.
  2. Extend your left forearm and grasp their left forearm.
  3. Walk around each other until you’re facing the opposite direction.
  4. Release and return to your partner.
  • Pro-Tip: Keep your grip firm but not crushing! And smile!
• Swing: Ah, the swing! A turning movement with your partner. But, did you know there are different styles?
  • Basic Swing: Stand facing each other, right hip to right hip. The man puts his right hand around the woman’s waist, and she places her left hand on his right shoulder. Take small steps, turning as a couple.
  • Western Swing: Similar to the basic swing, but with a bit more flair and often faster!
  • Note: Experiment and find what feels comfortable for you and your partner!
• Courtesy Turn: This is where the gentleman briefly places his arm around the lady’s waist as she turns in front of him.
  • Etiquette: Always offer a smile and maintain eye contact. The touch should be light and respectful.
  • Execution: The man guides the woman gently as she steps forward and turns.

Passing and Flowing: Keep the Energy Moving!

• Dosado: Get ready to pass right shoulders, then back-to-back. It sounds trickier than it is!
  1. Face your designated dancer.
  2. Pass them, right shoulder to right shoulder.
  3. Continue walking, passing back-to-back.
  4. End up facing away from each other.
  • Tip for Smooth Execution: Keep moving! Don’t stop between passing shoulders and backs.
• Pass Through: This is about dancers passing each other, usually right shoulder to right shoulder. It’s a simple but essential movement.

Circular and Lateral Movements: Round and Round We Go!

• Circle Left/Right: Grab hands with the other dancers and move in a circle. Easy peasy, right?
  • Keep the Circle Balanced: Maintain even tension on the hands, and avoid pulling or lagging behind.
• Right and Left Grand: This one involves weaving around the circle, alternating hands with each dancer you meet.
  • Tips for Maintaining Rhythm and Direction: Pay attention to who you’re supposed to give your hand to next. Keep a steady pace.
• Ladies Chain: The ladies get to move! The ladies move across the square, exchanging places.
  • Remember to give a courtesy turn to the opposite man.

Advanced Movements: Now We’re Getting Fancy!

• Cast Off: Here, a couple turns away from the center and moves down the outside of the square.
• Dive Thru: A couple ducks under an arch made by another couple. It’s like a tunnel of love, square dance style!
• Flutterwheel: Dancers in a double line turn and trade places. It looks impressive when done well!
• Star Thru: Dancers in a right-hand star turn a quarter and step forward. A bit more complex, but fun once you get the hang of it.

Call Designations: Who’s Doing What?

• Heads and Sides: This tells you which couples are supposed to perform the call. The head couples are those starting on sides 1 and 3, and the side couples start on sides 2 and 4.

Promenade: Let’s Take a Stroll!

• Promenade: Time for a leisurely walk around the square with your partner.
  • Proper Handhold and Posture: The man’s right hand holds the woman’s left hand, and they walk side-by-side in a relaxed, upright posture. Smile and enjoy the stroll!

There you have it! A crash course in the language of square dance. Remember, practice makes perfect, so get out there and give it a whirl. You’ll be surprised how quickly you pick it up. Happy dancing!

General Concepts: Understanding the Big Picture

Let’s zoom out for a minute. You’ve learned the individual steps, the formations, and the roles. But how does it all come together? Think of square dancing as a recipe. You know the ingredients (the calls), but now we need to understand how they bake into a delicious dance pie! This section covers those overarching concepts that tie the whole shebang together. Understanding these concepts will help you not just do the dance, but truly understand it!

The Call: The Building Block

What is a *call, anyway? Simply put, it’s a specific instruction shouted out by the caller. It’s the most basic unit of square dance, *like a single note in a melody.

These aren’t just random shouts, mind you. Each call has a specific meaning and a corresponding movement. The caller uses these calls to direct the dancers, telling them exactly what to do and when.

Think of “Allemande Left,” “Dosado,” or “Swing.” Each one is a distinct call with a defined action. Now, the magic happens when you start stringing these calls together…

The Figure: The Sequence

And voila, these individual calls are strategically combined to create something bigger: a figure! A figure is a short sequence of calls that form a recognizable pattern or movement within the square. It’s like a mini-routine within the larger dance.

Figures are the bread and butter of square dancing. They’re what make each dance unique and interesting. For example, a common figure might involve the head couples doing a “Dive Thru,” followed by a “Star Thru,” and ending with a “Square Thru 3.”

Recognizing common figures will help you anticipate the caller’s instructions and move more smoothly through the dance.

The Break: The Transition

Okay, so you’ve got your figures down. But how do you smoothly transition from one figure to the next? That’s where the break comes in!

A break is a transitional sequence of calls used to connect different figures. It’s like the connective tissue of the dance, ensuring that everything flows seamlessly. A break often involves calls that get everyone back to a neutral position, ready for the next figure.

Examples of common calls used in breaks include “Allemande Left” and “Right and Left Grand.” These calls help to reset the square and prepare the dancers for the next challenge. A good break feels natural and keeps the dance moving without any awkward pauses.

Level: The Challenge

Time to talk about the challenge in square dancing! Square dancing isn’t a one-size-fits-all activity. There are different levels of difficulty, ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level.

Level refers to the complexity of the calls and figures used in a dance. The most common levels are:

• Beginner: Focuses on the most fundamental calls and movements. Perfect for newcomers!
• Mainstream: Introduces a wider range of calls and figures, building on the basics.
• Plus: Adds even more calls and more complex figures, for those looking for a greater challenge.

It’s important to dance at a level that matches your skill and experience. Starting at the beginner level will ensure that you learn the fundamentals properly. As you gain confidence and skill, you can move on to more challenging levels.

Resources for Further Learning: Dig Deeper and Dance On!

Alright, partner, you’ve got the basics down, but the square dance journey is a marathon, not a sprint! You might be thinking, “Where do I go from here?” Don’t you worry, I’ve rounded up some trusty resources to keep you learning, laughing, and do-si-doing your heart out.

First, let’s talk websites. The internet is a treasure trove of square dance information. Seek out the official websites of square dance organizations. These will keep you in the loop about local events, workshops, and even online tutorials. Don’t be afraid to dive into forums or online communities dedicated to square dancing! You can connect with experienced dancers, ask questions, and share your own two cents.

Next up: books. If you’re the type who likes the feel of paper in your hands (or maybe you just need a break from the screen), there are some fantastic books about square dancing. Look for beginner’s guides that go into more detail about calls, figures, and techniques, or books that delve into the history of square dancing and its different styles.

Let’s not forget about apps. Yup, there’s an app for that! There are apps that help you learn calls, practice your timing, and even find local square dance events. Some apps even have built-in music and virtual callers, so you can practice in your living room.

And last but not least, the most valuable resource of all: local square dance clubs. Nothing beats the experience of dancing with real people! Local clubs are the heart of the square dance community. They offer lessons for all skill levels, host regular dances, and provide a welcoming environment for newcomers. Check out your local square dance organizations, community centers, or even online directories to find a club near you. Don’t be shy—give them a holler!

So there you have it: websites, books, apps, and local clubs. With these resources at your fingertips, you’ll be dancing like a pro in no time! Now get out there and promenade into the world of square dancing!

So, there you have it! Hopefully, you’re now a bit more familiar with the lingo and ready to hit the dance floor. Don’t worry too much about memorizing everything perfectly – just relax, listen to the caller, and have a good time swingin’ your partner!