The Bundaberg community can kick up their heels on Tuesday when the Cane Country Squares start their 12-week beginner class which is open to everyone.
Cane Country Squares publicity officer Jo Read said the class was perfect for people new to square dancing and for those who wanted to test tapping their toes on the dance floor before making a commitment.
Jo said the club focused on modern square dancing with groups of four dancers moving in patterns to music which could be any style from classic rock or disco to easy listening.
What is Modern Square Dancing?
Jo said eight people formed a square with two people on each side.
“Two couples face each other up and down the hall and the other two face each other across the hall,” Jo said.
“Although the formation changes throughout the dance, it always starts and finishes in this ‘square’ formation.
“Modern Square Dancing can be done to any type of music, from classic rock, country, easy listening, ballads, disco and current hits. The music just needs a regular beat at roughly 125 beats per minute.”
In modern square dancing there is no set pattern for a dance and the participants learn a number of moves that the caller puts together to form a dance.
“The caller ‘calls’ out these moves and the dancers respond to the calls – part of the fun is not knowing which moves will be called next!” she said.
“Moving in rhythm to the music keeps you physically fit.”
Jo said reacting to the calls keeps the individual on their toes mentally, as the team of eight dancers work together to complete the dance.
“It is a great relaxer to help combat the pressures and tensions of our busy lives with a great social, fun and friendly atmosphere,” Jo said.
Easy steps to becoming an expert
Jo said learning the square dance steps was easy, as experienced square dance callers guided the partaker’s moves and the named each of the calls that were danced.
“Dancers that have already leaned those movements also join in as part of your team of eight to help,” she said.
“The moves are practiced until they become as natural as walking.
“The square dance caller combines the basic steps and moves into whole dance patterns.
“Each arm turn brings a surprise and as the pattern concludes you should be back to your partner.”
While there were no competitions and no trophies Jo said the important thing about modern square dancing was all about dancing, fun and enjoyment for all.
Jo said the square dance learner classes were open from ages eight to active eighties; it is low cost, and just great social fun and exercise for families, couples and singles.
The 12-week beginner class starts on Tuesday, 20 August at 6.30 to 8.30pm at 89 Targo Street, Bundaberg. For more information phone Matthew 0418 479 814 or check out their Facebook page.
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