Toggle through the sections below to find some helpful information about contra dancing with us!
You are in good company — we were all new to contra at one time. Beginners are encouraged to join us at the Atlanta Contra Dance! Experienced dancers will help you, we are here to have fun not to be perfect! There is a Dance Basics Workshop before every dance on Fridays from 7:30-8:00pm. The caller will get you all warmed up and ready to dance that night.
You will learn things like a basic swing, an ‘allemande’, a ‘do si do’, and how a contra dance set works. You’ll get the fundamentals that will make you successful and have fun!
Water, Water, Water: Hydration is so important! Bring a water bottle! If you’re well hydrated, you’ll reduce any potential dizziness and increase the joy you feel from the dance. To feel great, start drinking water before you get to the dance.
Clothing:
Partnering:
Over the course of a dance, you will interact with everyone, so don’t be concerned if you aren’t bringing a partner to the dance. Ask some experienced dancers to dance – they would love to show you the ropes!
Contra dancers love feedback and want you to have fun and feel comfortable.
Check out the history of contra dancing and the history of Atlanta Contra Dance on this page.
We are always looking for talent to come call and play with us in Atlanta! Check out this page to connect us about joining us for a dance!