Changes

At least 12 dancers, a caller, and a band or someone to run recorded music.

Live A caller.A contra dance band - live music is preferable - , and many small bands specialize in contra dance music. If necessary, supply appropriate recorded music and someone to manage it. Contra callers and bands can usually recommend each other.An experienced "caller" is necessary. (Some bands include a caller. Contra callers and bands can usually recommend each other.)A large hall , with room and a hard smooth floor surface for dancing.Comfortable dancing shoes. Some halls have require certain types of shoe sole requirements -soles, or brushes for cleaning shoes , to keep the floor surface smooth.Clothing should be in removable layers (dancers can get hot). Many dancers report that it is more fun to dance in a skirt that twirls well. (Some experienced male contra dancers prefer to wear skirts for this reason.)

Fans for cooling the hall, if necessary(a hall full of dancing heats up).

Most callers begin a dance with a 15 - 30 minute teaching session for beginners, to demonstrate the basics and have people practice the common contra dance positions and moves that come up in many dances. You As examples, you will learn to identify your "corner." Simplest moves include the , and to promenade, do-Se-do, swing, alamand, and right-hand star.Dances can range from quite easy to more complicated.

The caller gives all directions throughout each dance. More experienced dancers also help those who get confusedothers, so no one has to worry about knowing or memorizing.The object is to have fun!After each dance, people have the opportunity to find a new partner, or to ; individuals occasionally sit out, resttorest, and watch [assuming there are enough people to continue the dancing].