What is Folk Dance?
Folk dance is a body of dances with their related musical accompaniments, which has come into being without the conscious influences, or effort of molding forces. (Czarnowski, Folk Dance Teaching Cues)

Folk dance may be defined as the traditional dances of a given country that have evolved naturally and spontaneously in conjunction with the everyday activities and experiences of the people who developed them. They are traditional dances handed down from generation to generation. They are more or less fixed in their basic patterns, but may evince variations in different provinces or sections of the given country in the same manner in which a basic language undergoes changes over a period of many years. The significant fact, however, is that there has been no conscious effort to introduce such changes or variations. They have come about through repetition in the handing-down process. (Duggan, Schlottman and Rutledge, The Teaching of Folk Dance)

The traditional dance of a people within a specific culture, developed by them, and incorporating a national or regional flavor characteristic of them. Folk dance is communal in purpose and unique in that it is based upon the principle of group participation. (Marris, Pittman and Waller, Dance a While)

 

What if I don't have a partner?
No problem. Many people come alone. The dances are typically done in a circle or a line--and do not require partners. For couples dances, just grab someone. We are a friendly group, and we all dance with each other.

What if I have never danced before?
No experience is necessary. Dance skills can be learned. Come with an open attitude and be willing to try the dance steps.

Come early. There is group teaching at the beginning of the dances early in the night. As the evening progresses, we get into more involved dances, but there's almost always an experienced dancer eager to help newcomers individually. After the teaching session, new dancers follow behind the more experienced dancers to learn the steps to additional dances.

Always remember: Dance as if no one is watching.

Why should I folk dance?
Folk dancing is very relaxing--a great way to end the week. You get to enjoy dancing without the excessive noise and smoke of dance clubs. In addition, folk dancing is excellent exercise--much more interesting than running or walking, plus you're learning about other countries. You will get to experience the music and culture of a variety of countries. And of course, the group is friendly and very welcoming of new dancers.

What should I wear?
Dress casually and comfortably. Wear something you can move in. Wear shoes that move easily across the dance floor; leather soles are best.

 

If I am new to folk dancing, do I have to wait until Newcomers’ Night (first Friday) to attend?

Not at all – you are welcome to attend any Friday. We just found that some people like to have one night that is especially geared to those new to folk dance.