Dance Resource Guide

Dance Dance Resource GuideResource Guide

““The fight is won or lost far away from witnesses - behind the lines, in the The fight is won or lost far away from witnesses - behind the lines, in the gym, and out there on the road, long before I dance under those lights.”gym, and out there on the road, long before I dance under those lights.”

- Muhammad Ali- Muhammad Ali

DanceDance

Dance (from French Dance (from French danserdanser) is an art ) is an art form that generally refers to form that generally refers to movement of the body, usually movement of the body, usually rhythmic and to music, used as a rhythmic and to music, used as a form of expression, social interaction form of expression, social interaction or presented in a spiritual or or presented in a spiritual or performance setting.performance setting.

In sports, gymnastics, figure skating In sports, gymnastics, figure skating and synchronized swimming are and synchronized swimming are dancedance disciplines while martial arts disciplines while martial arts katakata are often compared to dances. are often compared to dances.

Definitions of what constitutes dance Definitions of what constitutes dance are dependent on social, cultural, are dependent on social, cultural, aesthetic, artistic and moral aesthetic, artistic and moral constraints and range from functional constraints and range from functional movement (such as folk dance) to movement (such as folk dance) to virtuoso techniques such as ballet.virtuoso techniques such as ballet.

DanceDance

Dance can be participatory, social or performed for an Dance can be participatory, social or performed for an audience. It can also be ceremonial or competitive. Dance audience. It can also be ceremonial or competitive. Dance movements may be without significance in themselves, movements may be without significance in themselves, such as in ballet or European folk dance, or have a such as in ballet or European folk dance, or have a vocabulary/symbolic system as in many Asian dances. vocabulary/symbolic system as in many Asian dances. Dance can embody or express ideas, emotions or tell a Dance can embody or express ideas, emotions or tell a story.story.

Dancing has evolved many styles. Breakdancing and Dancing has evolved many styles. Breakdancing and Krumping are related to the hip hop culture. African Krumping are related to the hip hop culture. African dance is interpretive. Ballet, Ballroom, Waltz, and Tango dance is interpretive. Ballet, Ballroom, Waltz, and Tango are classical styles of dance while Square and the Electric are classical styles of dance while Square and the Electric Slide are forms of step dances.Slide are forms of step dances.

Every dance, no matter what style, has something in Every dance, no matter what style, has something in common. It not only involves flexibility and body common. It not only involves flexibility and body movement, but also physics. If the proper physics is not movement, but also physics. If the proper physics is not taken into consideration, injuries taken into consideration, injuries cancan and are and are likelylikely to to occur.occur.

Choreography is the art of creating dances. The person Choreography is the art of creating dances. The person who creates (i.e., choreographs) a dance is known as the who creates (i.e., choreographs) a dance is known as the choreographer.choreographer.

DanceDance

Dance categories by number of Dance categories by number of interacting dancers are mainly Solo interacting dancers are mainly Solo dance, Partner dance and dance, Partner dance and Group dance.Group dance.

There is great variety in dance in the There is great variety in dance in the United States of America, it is the home United States of America, it is the home of the hip hop dance and its derivative of the hip hop dance and its derivative Rock and Roll, and modern square dance Rock and Roll, and modern square dance (associated with the United States of (associated with the United States of America due to its historic development America due to its historic development in that country--nineteen U.S. states have in that country--nineteen U.S. states have designated it as their official state dance) designated it as their official state dance) and one of the major centers for modern and one of the major centers for modern dance. dance.

There is a variety of social dance and There is a variety of social dance and concert or performance dance forms with concert or performance dance forms with also a range of traditions of Native also a range of traditions of Native American dances.American dances.

Training Session #1Training Session #1

CongaConga Parachute DanceParachute Dance

Conga LineConga Line

The The congaconga is a is a

Latin American Latin American carnival march that carnival march that was first developed was first developed in Cuba and in Cuba and became popular in became popular in the United States the United States in the 1930s and in the 1930s and 1950s. 1950s.

The dancers form a long, processing line.The dancers form a long, processing line.

It has three shuffle steps on the beat.It has three shuffle steps on the beat.

Followed by a kickFollowed by a kick that is slightly ahead of the fourth beat. that is slightly ahead of the fourth beat.

Parachute DanceParachute Dance

Purpose of Activity:Purpose of Activity: The students The students will be able to perform a parachute will be able to perform a parachute dance which promotes rhythm, dance which promotes rhythm, coordination, the development of coordination, the development of upper body strength, and locomotor upper body strength, and locomotor skills. skills.

Suggested Grade Level:Suggested Grade Level: K-5 K-5 Materials Needed:Materials Needed: CD player, parachute CD player, parachute

with enough spots for each child in the with enough spots for each child in the class class

Recommended music:Recommended music: “Behind the Clouds” “Behind the Clouds” by Brad Paisley from the Cars soundtrack by Brad Paisley from the Cars soundtrack

Beginning dance formation:Beginning dance formation: Students begin Students begin facing the parachute with the handle of the facing the parachute with the handle of the parachute or the material of the parachute parachute or the material of the parachute in both hands with an overhand grip. The in both hands with an overhand grip. The parachute is held at waist level. parachute is held at waist level.

Step-Close SequenceStep-Close Sequence When the music begins hold for When the music begins hold for

4 sets of 8 counts.4 sets of 8 counts.

1-16 -- Step R to R side and 1-16 -- Step R to R side and close L, taking weight onto the close L, taking weight onto the L foot (2 counts). Repeat the L foot (2 counts). Repeat the move for a total of 8 times for a move for a total of 8 times for a total of 16 counts. On the last total of 16 counts. On the last count, tap with the L foot so count, tap with the L foot so that the move can be reversed.that the move can be reversed.

1-16 -- Step L to the L side and 1-16 -- Step L to the L side and close R, taking weight onto the close R, taking weight onto the R foot (2 counts). Repeat the R foot (2 counts). Repeat the move for a total of 8 times for a move for a total of 8 times for a total of 16 counts.total of 16 counts.

Shake and Sway SequenceShake and Sway Sequence

1-8 -- Stand in place and 1-8 -- Stand in place and gently shake the parachute gently shake the parachute up and down to the music.up and down to the music.

1-8 -- Repeat the shaking 1-8 -- Repeat the shaking movements.movements.

1-8 -- Students will all sway 1-8 -- Students will all sway to the R for 2 counts, back to the R for 2 counts, back to the center for 2 counts, to the center for 2 counts, to the L for 2 counts and to the L for 2 counts and back to the center for 2 back to the center for 2 counts.counts.

1-8 -- Repeat the swaying 1-8 -- Repeat the swaying movements for 8 more movements for 8 more counts.counts.

The Mushroom Move SequenceThe Mushroom Move Sequence

1-8 -- Raise the arms above the 1-8 -- Raise the arms above the head making the parachute lift head making the parachute lift into the air to form a into the air to form a “mushroom.” “mushroom.”

1-8 -- Students march under the 1-8 -- Students march under the parachute for 8 counts. parachute for 8 counts.

1-8 -- Students march back from 1-8 -- Students march back from under the parachute for 8 under the parachute for 8 counts.counts.

1-8 -- Students lower the 1-8 -- Students lower the parachute to the starting parachute to the starting position.position.

1-32 -- Repeat the entire 1-32 -- Repeat the entire “Mushroom Move” sequence.“Mushroom Move” sequence.

Locomotor Skill SequenceLocomotor Skill Sequence

There will be instrumental There will be instrumental music in the song. Students music in the song. Students will face to the side and hold will face to the side and hold the parachute with the L the parachute with the L hand.hand.

1-32 -- 16 skips - Each skip 1-32 -- 16 skips - Each skip is 2 counts. Students can is 2 counts. Students can begin with either foot. begin with either foot. Emphasize proper spacing Emphasize proper spacing and parachute “etiquette.”and parachute “etiquette.”

1-32 -- 32 runs - again 1-32 -- 32 runs - again emphasizing proper spacing emphasizing proper spacing and parachute “etiquette.” and parachute “etiquette.” Students will need to face Students will need to face the parachute and take the the parachute and take the beginning grip on the last 2 beginning grip on the last 2 counts.counts.

Parachute DanceParachute Dance

The singing will begin and the dance will start over. The singing will begin and the dance will start over.

After repeating the dance a second time, add the following 16 counts:After repeating the dance a second time, add the following 16 counts:1-16 -- Stand in place and gently shake the parachute up and down.1-16 -- Stand in place and gently shake the parachute up and down.The song then continues with several measures of instrumental music.The song then continues with several measures of instrumental music.

You can continue to repeat the dance or add your own locomotor skills or You can continue to repeat the dance or add your own locomotor skills or

activities.activities.


Folk DanceFolk Dance Line DanceLine Dance

Folk DanceFolk Dance

Folk danceFolk dance is a term used to describe is a term used to describe a large number of dances, mostly of a large number of dances, mostly of European origin, that tend to share the European origin, that tend to share the following attributes:following attributes:

Originally danced in about the 19th century or Originally danced in about the 19th century or earlier.earlier.

Performance is dominated by an inherited Performance is dominated by an inherited tradition rather than by innovation.tradition rather than by innovation.

Danced by common people and not exclusively Danced by common people and not exclusively by aristocracy.by aristocracy.

Developed spontaneously and there is no Developed spontaneously and there is no governing body that has final say over what "the governing body that has final say over what "the dance" is or who is authorized to teach it. Folk dance" is or who is authorized to teach it. Folk dances are traditionally performed during social dances are traditionally performed during social events by people with little or no professional events by people with little or no professional training. training.

New dancers often learn informally by observing New dancers often learn informally by observing others and/or receiving help from others. others and/or receiving help from others.

Folk dancing is viewed as more of a social Folk dancing is viewed as more of a social activity rather than competitive, although there activity rather than competitive, although there are professional and semi-professional folk are professional and semi-professional folk dance groups, and occasional folk dance dance groups, and occasional folk dance competitions.competitions.

Folk Dance TerminologyFolk Dance Terminology

The term "folk dance" is sometimes applied to certain dances of historical importance in European culture and history; typically originated The term "folk dance" is sometimes applied to certain dances of historical importance in European culture and history; typically originated before 20th century. before 20th century.

The term "folk dance" is reserved for dances which are to a significant degree bound by European tradition and originated in the times when The term "folk dance" is reserved for dances which are to a significant degree bound by European tradition and originated in the times when the distinction existed between the dances of "common folk" and the dances of the "high society".the distinction existed between the dances of "common folk" and the dances of the "high society".

The terms "ethnic" and "traditional" are used when it is required to emphasize the cultural roots of the dance.The terms "ethnic" and "traditional" are used when it is required to emphasize the cultural roots of the dance.

Folk DanceFolk DanceTypes of folk dance include:Types of folk dance include:

CloggingClogging English country danceEnglish country dance International folk danceInternational folk dance Irish danceIrish dance Morris danceMorris dance Nordic polska danceNordic polska dance Ball de bastons Ball de bastons Square danceSquare dance Sword danceSword dance

Some choreographed dances such as contra Some choreographed dances such as contra dance, Israeli folk dance, Scottish country dance, Israeli folk dance, Scottish country dance, and modern Western square dance, dance, and modern Western square dance, are called folk dances, though this is not are called folk dances, though this is not true in the strictest sense. true in the strictest sense.

Country dance overlaps with contemporary Country dance overlaps with contemporary folk dance and ballroom dance. Most folk dance and ballroom dance. Most country dances and ballroom dances country dances and ballroom dances originated from folk dances, with gradual originated from folk dances, with gradual refinement over the years.refinement over the years.

Line DanceLine Dance

A A line danceline dance is choreographed is choreographed dance with a repeated sequence of dance with a repeated sequence of steps in which a group of people steps in which a group of people dance in one or more lines without dance in one or more lines without regard for the gender of the regard for the gender of the individuals, all facing the same individuals, all facing the same direction, and executing the steps at direction, and executing the steps at the same time. the same time.

Line dancers are not in physical Line dancers are not in physical contact with each other. Older "line contact with each other. Older "line dances" have lines in which the dances" have lines in which the dancers face each other, or the dancers face each other, or the "line" is a circle, or all dancers in "line" is a circle, or all dancers in the "line" follow a leader around the the "line" follow a leader around the dance floor; while holding the hand dance floor; while holding the hand of the dancers beside them.of the dancers beside them.

Line DanceLine Dance DescriptionDescription

In a small group there may be only one line, but usually there are several parallel lines, one behind the other. In this In a small group there may be only one line, but usually there are several parallel lines, one behind the other. In this parallel line formation, the dancers dance in a synchronized manner, but independently of each other. There are usually parallel line formation, the dancers dance in a synchronized manner, but independently of each other. There are usually no moves that require any interaction between the dancers, other than they execute the maneuvers at the same timeno moves that require any interaction between the dancers, other than they execute the maneuvers at the same time..

Although line dances can be fairly simple, as with the 18 count 4 wall beginner "Electric Slide," increasing complexity Although line dances can be fairly simple, as with the 18 count 4 wall beginner "Electric Slide," increasing complexity can be created through several means. In general, higher-count sequences are more difficult. (One "count" corresponds can be created through several means. In general, higher-count sequences are more difficult. (One "count" corresponds to one musical beat.) to one musical beat.)

The inclusion of unusual or unfamiliar sequences of steps also makes a dance more challenging. When a line dance is The inclusion of unusual or unfamiliar sequences of steps also makes a dance more challenging. When a line dance is done to fast music, it is usually more difficult. done to fast music, it is usually more difficult.

Body movements other than steps, such as hand gestures, can add complexity. "Phrased" line dances are written to go Body movements other than steps, such as hand gestures, can add complexity. "Phrased" line dances are written to go with specific versions of songs. with specific versions of songs.

Tags, bridges, and skipping over, or repeating portions of the dance, are all devices that are used to follow the phrasing Tags, bridges, and skipping over, or repeating portions of the dance, are all devices that are used to follow the phrasing in the music. in the music.

These phrased dances require dancers to be more conscious of the music and not simply repeat the same sequence of These phrased dances require dancers to be more conscious of the music and not simply repeat the same sequence of steps for an entire song.steps for an entire song.

Contra line dances such as "Wild Wild West" by Lana Harvery have two sets of lines with the dancers facing each other. Contra line dances such as "Wild Wild West" by Lana Harvery have two sets of lines with the dancers facing each other. Dancers may make momentary contact while coming close to, or passing, the dancer in the opposing line.Dancers may make momentary contact while coming close to, or passing, the dancer in the opposing line.

Line Dance History & CultureLine Dance History & Culture

Line dance is sometimes thought of as originating Line dance is sometimes thought of as originating in the Wild West. In fact, it has a much more in the Wild West. In fact, it has a much more diverse background. Many folk dances are danced diverse background. Many folk dances are danced in unison in a single, nonlinear "line", and often in unison in a single, nonlinear "line", and often with a connection between dancers. with a connection between dancers.

The absence of a physical connection between The absence of a physical connection between dancers is a distinguishing feature of country dancers is a distinguishing feature of country western line dance. Line dances have western line dance. Line dances have accompanied many popular music styles since the accompanied many popular music styles since the early 1970s, including swing, rock and roll, and early 1970s, including swing, rock and roll, and disco. The variety and popularity of line dances in disco. The variety and popularity of line dances in the late 20th, and early 21st century is, however, the late 20th, and early 21st century is, however, noteworthy.noteworthy.

Line dancing's current popularity grew out of the Line dancing's current popularity grew out of the disco period, when the country-western dance and disco period, when the country-western dance and music communities continued to explore and music communities continued to explore and develop this form of dancing.develop this form of dancing.

Line Dance MusicLine Dance Music

Line dancing has a cowboy image, and it was danced predominantly to country-western music. Line dancing has a cowboy image, and it was danced predominantly to country-western music. This has been changing since the 1970s, when the hustle line dance became popular. Line dancing This has been changing since the 1970s, when the hustle line dance became popular. Line dancing became even more popular with a wider range of music in the 1990s, as more young people took up became even more popular with a wider range of music in the 1990s, as more young people took up line dancing (largely due to several pop bands releasing songs with videos featuring what later line dancing (largely due to several pop bands releasing songs with videos featuring what later became line dances). became line dances).

Today, country music may make up the minority of a line dance DJ's playlist, with the balance Today, country music may make up the minority of a line dance DJ's playlist, with the balance spread over a variety of musical styles both new and old. Genres including Celtic, Swing, Pop, spread over a variety of musical styles both new and old. Genres including Celtic, Swing, Pop, Rock, Big Band, Folk, and almost anything else that has a regular beat.Rock, Big Band, Folk, and almost anything else that has a regular beat.

Popular Line DancesPopular Line Dances

Electric SlideElectric Slide

Cha Cha SlideCha Cha Slide

The HustleThe Hustle

Cupid ShuffleCupid Shuffle

Boot Scootin' BoogieBoot Scootin' Boogie

Achy Breaky HeartAchy Breaky Heart

MacarenaMacarena

Chicken DanceChicken Dance

Cotton Eye JoeCotton Eye Joe

Cotton-Cotton-Eyed Eyed JoeJoe

"Cotton Eye Joe" is also a popular spoke line dance that can be seen and danced at country "Cotton Eye Joe" is also a popular spoke line dance that can be seen and danced at country

western dance venues. western dance venues.

The 1980 film The 1980 film Urban CowboyUrban Cowboy sparked a renewed interest in the dance, and most recently a sparked a renewed interest in the dance, and most recently a version of the song recorded by the Swedish band Rednex in 1994 as "Cotton Eye Joe" has version of the song recorded by the Swedish band Rednex in 1994 as "Cotton Eye Joe" has become popular.become popular.

The precise origins of this song are unclear, although it predates the American Civil War. The precise origins of this song are unclear, although it predates the American Civil War.

"Cotton-Eyed Joe" has been a standard during the seventh-inning stretch at Texas Rangers "Cotton-Eyed Joe" has been a standard during the seventh-inning stretch at Texas Rangers baseball games since the team moved to Texas in 1972.baseball games since the team moved to Texas in 1972.

"Cotton-Eyed Joe" is a "Cotton-Eyed Joe" is a popular American folk song popular American folk song known at various times known at various times throughout the United throughout the United States and Canada, States and Canada, although today it is most although today it is most commonly associated with commonly associated with the American South.the American South.

Line Dance TermsLine Dance Terms

BasicBasic A A basicbasic is one repetition of the main dance from the first count to the last not is one repetition of the main dance from the first count to the last not

including any tags or bridges. In competition if this is danced "as written" with no including any tags or bridges. In competition if this is danced "as written" with no variations, it is called "Vanilla" stopvariations, it is called "Vanilla" stop

VariationVariation Dancers who have progressed beyond beginner status will often replace a section of Dancers who have progressed beyond beginner status will often replace a section of

a dance (say 8 beats) with a compatible set of steps which is called a variation. This a dance (say 8 beats) with a compatible set of steps which is called a variation. This is often required in competitive line dancing.is often required in competitive line dancing.

CountCount A dance will have a number of A dance will have a number of countscounts, for example a 64-count dance. This is the , for example a 64-count dance. This is the

number of beats of music it would take to complete one sequence of the dance. This number of beats of music it would take to complete one sequence of the dance. This is not necessarily the same number of steps in the dance as steps can be performed is not necessarily the same number of steps in the dance as steps can be performed on an on an andand count between two beats, or sometimes a step holds over more than one count between two beats, or sometimes a step holds over more than one beat.beat.

RestartRestart A A restartrestart is a point at which the basic dance sequence is interrupted and the dance is a point at which the basic dance sequence is interrupted and the dance

routine is started again from the beginning. Restarts are used to fit the dances to the routine is started again from the beginning. Restarts are used to fit the dances to the phrasing of the music.phrasing of the music.


StepStep A dance is made up of a number of movements called A dance is made up of a number of movements called stepssteps. Each step is given a . Each step is given a

name so teachers can tell dancers to perform this step when teaching a dance. name so teachers can tell dancers to perform this step when teaching a dance. The most well-known is the The most well-known is the grapevinegrapevine (or (or vinevine for short), which is usually a for short), which is usually a three-step movement to the side, with the fourth step added to complete the three-step movement to the side, with the fourth step added to complete the measure. There can be any number of movements in one step.measure. There can be any number of movements in one step.

Tag / BridgeTag / Bridge A A tagtag or or bridgebridge is an extra set of steps not part of the main dance sequence that is an extra set of steps not part of the main dance sequence that

are inserted into one or more sequences to ensure the dance fits with the are inserted into one or more sequences to ensure the dance fits with the phrasing of the music. The term phrasing of the music. The term tagtag usually implies only a few additional counts usually implies only a few additional counts (e.g. 2 or 4), whereas (e.g. 2 or 4), whereas bridgebridge implies a longer piece (e.g. 8 or 16). The terms are implies a longer piece (e.g. 8 or 16). The terms are generally interchangeable, however.generally interchangeable, however.


WallWall Each dance is said to consist of a number of Each dance is said to consist of a number of wallswalls. A wall is the direction in which . A wall is the direction in which

the dancers face at any given time: the front (the direction faced at the beginning of the dancers face at any given time: the front (the direction faced at the beginning of the dance), the back or one of the sides. Dancers may change direction many times the dance), the back or one of the sides. Dancers may change direction many times during a sequence, and may even, at any given point, be facing in a direction half-during a sequence, and may even, at any given point, be facing in a direction half-way between two walls; but at the end of the sequence they will be facing the way between two walls; but at the end of the sequence they will be facing the original wall or any of the other three. Whichever wall that is, the next iteration of original wall or any of the other three. Whichever wall that is, the next iteration of the sequence uses that wall as the new frame of reference.the sequence uses that wall as the new frame of reference.

In a In a one-wall danceone-wall dance, the dancers face the same direction at the end of the sequence as at , the dancers face the same direction at the end of the sequence as at the beginning. the beginning.

In a In a two-wall dancetwo-wall dance, repetitions of the sequence end alternately at the back and front , repetitions of the sequence end alternately at the back and front walls. In other words, the dancers have effectively turned through 180 degrees during one walls. In other words, the dancers have effectively turned through 180 degrees during one set. The samba line dance is an example of a two-wall dance. While doing the "volte" step, set. The samba line dance is an example of a two-wall dance. While doing the "volte" step, the dancers turn 180 degrees to face a new wall.the dancers turn 180 degrees to face a new wall.

In a In a four-wall dancefour-wall dance, the direction faced at the end of the sequence is 90 degrees to the , the direction faced at the end of the sequence is 90 degrees to the right or left from the direction in which they faced at the beginning. As a result, the right or left from the direction in which they faced at the beginning. As a result, the dancers face each of the four walls in turn at the end of four consecutive repetitions of the dancers face each of the four walls in turn at the end of four consecutive repetitions of the sequence, before returning to the original wall. The hustle line dance is an example of a sequence, before returning to the original wall. The hustle line dance is an example of a four-wall dance because in the final figure they turn 90 degrees to the left to face a new four-wall dance because in the final figure they turn 90 degrees to the left to face a new wall. wall.

Step DescriptionsStep Descriptions Descriptions of some dance steps in their typical form are below. They are Descriptions of some dance steps in their typical form are below. They are

subject to variations in particular dances, where a stomp or a point may occur subject to variations in particular dances, where a stomp or a point may occur instead of a touch, for example, in the grapevine.instead of a touch, for example, in the grapevine.

Chasse:Chasse: One foot moves to the side, the other foot is placed next to it, and the first foot One foot moves to the side, the other foot is placed next to it, and the first foot moves again to the side.moves again to the side.

GrapevineGrapevine: One foot moves to the side, the other moves behind it, the first foot moves : One foot moves to the side, the other moves behind it, the first foot moves again to the side, and the second touches next to the first. There are variations: the final again to the side, and the second touches next to the first. There are variations: the final step can consist of a hitch, a scuff, placement of weight on the second foot, and so forth. step can consist of a hitch, a scuff, placement of weight on the second foot, and so forth. The name of the step is sometimes abbreviated to The name of the step is sometimes abbreviated to vinevine..

: To the left or the right. This is a grapevine with a cross in front as well as a cross behind. : To the left or the right. This is a grapevine with a cross in front as well as a cross behind. Creates a slight zig zag pattern on the floor.Creates a slight zig zag pattern on the floor.

Triple StepTriple Step: : This is 3 steps being taken in only 2 beats of music. Can move forward, This is 3 steps being taken in only 2 beats of music. Can move forward, backward, left, right or on the spot.backward, left, right or on the spot.

Shuffle stepShuffle step: A triple step to the front or the back, left or right side, starting on either foot. : A triple step to the front or the back, left or right side, starting on either foot. The feet slide rather than being given the staccato (short and sharp) movement of the cha-The feet slide rather than being given the staccato (short and sharp) movement of the cha-cha. There is a slight difference in the interpretation of the timing to give the element its cha. There is a slight difference in the interpretation of the timing to give the element its distinctive look. It is counted as 1 & 2, 3 & 4, etc. However, the actual amount of time distinctive look. It is counted as 1 & 2, 3 & 4, etc. However, the actual amount of time devoted to each of the 3 steps in the shuffle is 3/4 of a beat, 1/4 of a beat, then one full beat devoted to each of the 3 steps in the shuffle is 3/4 of a beat, 1/4 of a beat, then one full beat of music.of music.

Lock stepLock step: : A triple step backwards or forwards, starting on either foot, with the second foot A triple step backwards or forwards, starting on either foot, with the second foot slid up to and tightly locked in front of or behind the first foot before the first foot is moved slid up to and tightly locked in front of or behind the first foot before the first foot is moved a second time in the same direction as for the first step.a second time in the same direction as for the first step.

Other steps include:Other steps include: butterfly, coaster step , hitch, jazz box, kick ball change, kick ball butterfly, coaster step , hitch, jazz box, kick ball change, kick ball step, lunge, mambo step, , , paddle, pivot turn, rock step, scissor step, scuff, , stamp, step, lunge, mambo step, , , paddle, pivot turn, rock step, scissor step, scuff, , stamp, stomp, and vaudeville.stomp, and vaudeville.

Two StepTwo Step

The two-step is a step found in many folk dances, and in The two-step is a step found in many folk dances, and in various other dances. It seems to take its name from the 19th various other dances. It seems to take its name from the 19th century dance related to the Polka.century dance related to the Polka.

A two-step consists of two steps in approximately the same A two-step consists of two steps in approximately the same direction onto the same foot, separated by a closing step with direction onto the same foot, separated by a closing step with the other foot. For example, a right two-step forward is a the other foot. For example, a right two-step forward is a forward step onto the right foot, a closing step with the left forward step onto the right foot, a closing step with the left foot, and a forward step onto the right foot. The closing step foot, and a forward step onto the right foot. The closing step may be done directly beside the other foot, or obliquely may be done directly beside the other foot, or obliquely beside, or even crossed, as long as the closing foot does not beside, or even crossed, as long as the closing foot does not go past the other foot.go past the other foot.

Some types of two-step, or related steps, are named "lock Some types of two-step, or related steps, are named "lock step".step".

Triple StepTriple Step

Triple Step is a generic term for dance step patterns that describes Triple Step is a generic term for dance step patterns that describes three steps done on two main beats of music. Usually they are two three steps done on two main beats of music. Usually they are two quick steps and one slow one, i.e., often they are counted as "quick-quick steps and one slow one, i.e., often they are counted as "quick-quick-slow", "one-and-two", "three-and-four", etc.quick-slow", "one-and-two", "three-and-four", etc.

Some dances have a pattern known as such: "triple step". In some Some dances have a pattern known as such: "triple step". In some other dances it is referred to as the shuffle step.other dances it is referred to as the shuffle step.

Some triple steps are performed in a chasse-like manner: "side step, Some triple steps are performed in a chasse-like manner: "side step, together, side step". The "cha-cha chasse" is an example of this kind together, side step". The "cha-cha chasse" is an example of this kind of a triple step. In some other cases the steps may be done in place.of a triple step. In some other cases the steps may be done in place.

Some dances such as swing dances have several variants of triple Some dances such as swing dances have several variants of triple step.step.


Mexican Hat DanceMexican Hat Dance Chicken DanceChicken Dance

Mexican Hat DanceMexican Hat Dance

The Jarabe Tapatío, The Jarabe Tapatío, known in English as the known in English as the Mexican hat Dance, is Mexican hat Dance, is the title of the musical the title of the musical piece and the dance that piece and the dance that accompanies it, which is accompanies it, which is accorded the title of the accorded the title of the "national dance of "national dance of Mexico". Mexico".

In the Spanish language, In the Spanish language, jarabejarabe is a sort of dance, and is a sort of dance, and the adjective the adjective tapatíotapatío indicates indicates something from Guadalajara, something from Guadalajara, Jalisco.Jalisco.


The The Jarabe TapatíoJarabe Tapatío dance in its dance in its standardized form was first standardized form was first choreographed by the Mexican, choreographed by the Mexican, in the early twentieth century to in the early twentieth century to celebrate a government-celebrate a government-sponsored fiesta that sponsored fiesta that commemorated the successful commemorated the successful end of the Mexican Revolution.end of the Mexican Revolution.

Since then it has become a folk Since then it has become a folk dance popular throughout dance popular throughout Mexico and the Southwestern Mexico and the Southwestern United States as a symbol of the United States as a symbol of the national pride and honor of the national pride and honor of the Mexican people.Mexican people.


The dance tells the story of love and courtship. It can be performed either by a couple or a group of couples. A The dance tells the story of love and courtship. It can be performed either by a couple or a group of couples. A charrocharro, , dressed in the traditional "charro suit", a three-piece suit composed of a vest, jacket, and pants bearing silver buttons down dressed in the traditional "charro suit", a three-piece suit composed of a vest, jacket, and pants bearing silver buttons down the seam), makes initial courtship gestures to the seam), makes initial courtship gestures to la chinala china (wearing the traditional (wearing the traditional China PoblanaChina Poblana outfit). outfit).

Just as he has impressed the woman, he becomes "drunk" with glory, and is shooed away as a "borracho" (an inebriate), but Just as he has impressed the woman, he becomes "drunk" with glory, and is shooed away as a "borracho" (an inebriate), but ultimately, he succeeds in "conquering" the ultimately, he succeeds in "conquering" the chinachina, throwing his hat to the ground and kicking his leg over his partner's head , throwing his hat to the ground and kicking his leg over his partner's head as she bends down to pick it up. as she bends down to pick it up.

The two do a triumphant march to a military tune called a The two do a triumphant march to a military tune called a dianadiana, and the dance ends with a romantic turn or the couple hiding , and the dance ends with a romantic turn or the couple hiding their faces behind the man's sombrero in a feigned kiss.their faces behind the man's sombrero in a feigned kiss.

Mexican Hat DanceMexican Hat Dance As you listen to the melody, try to feel the beat of the music. As you listen to the melody, try to feel the beat of the music.

Repeat "1,2, 3, and 4" over and over in your head. This will help Repeat "1,2, 3, and 4" over and over in your head. This will help you to put the arm motions, foot steps and claps together. you to put the arm motions, foot steps and claps together. Sometimes, the beat gets faster. When the music speeds up, your Sometimes, the beat gets faster. When the music speeds up, your dance movements must be quick. The Mexican Hat Dance can be dance movements must be quick. The Mexican Hat Dance can be performed with one partner or a group.performed with one partner or a group.

The starting position is standing with feet together and hands at The starting position is standing with feet together and hands at

sides. Begin the dance on the count of "1" by folding your left sides. Begin the dance on the count of "1" by folding your left arm across your stomach. Your left hand can have a soft fist. arm across your stomach. Your left hand can have a soft fist. Place your right elbow on your left hand. Your right hand is open Place your right elbow on your left hand. Your right hand is open like you are waving. Fling your right hand back. At the same time, like you are waving. Fling your right hand back. At the same time, put your right heel out.put your right heel out.

On the count of "2", fold your right arm across your stomach. On the count of "2", fold your right arm across your stomach. Your right hand can have a soft fist. Place your left elbow on your Your right hand can have a soft fist. Place your left elbow on your right hand. Your left hand is open like you are waving. Fling your right hand. Your left hand is open like you are waving. Fling your left hand back. At the same time, put your left heel out.left hand back. At the same time, put your left heel out.

On the count of "3", fold your left arm across your stomach. Your On the count of "3", fold your left arm across your stomach. Your left hand can have a soft fist. Place your right elbow on your left left hand can have a soft fist. Place your right elbow on your left hand. Your right hand is open like you are waving. Fling your hand. Your right hand is open like you are waving. Fling your right hand back. At the same time, put your right heel out.right hand back. At the same time, put your right heel out.

On the counts of "and 4" , clap two times very fast.On the counts of "and 4" , clap two times very fast.

Start over and repeat the motions of counts "1", "2", "3", "and 4", Start over and repeat the motions of counts "1", "2", "3", "and 4", seven times.seven times.


You can hear the music change. On the count of "1", clap. On the count of "2", clap. On the count of You can hear the music change. On the count of "1", clap. On the count of "2", clap. On the count of

"3", clap. On the count "and 4", raise your arms high and shout " olé " (oh - lay) which means hooray in "3", clap. On the count "and 4", raise your arms high and shout " olé " (oh - lay) which means hooray in Spanish. Repeat these motions three times.Spanish. Repeat these motions three times.

The music changes again to the beginning melody. Repeat the beginning motions four times.The music changes again to the beginning melody. Repeat the beginning motions four times.

Then, the music becomes fast and swirling. You are to hold hands with your partner or group and move Then, the music becomes fast and swirling. You are to hold hands with your partner or group and move quickly around in a circle.quickly around in a circle.

The song starts over. So repeat all of the hand motions, steps, claps and shouts from the beginning. The song starts over. So repeat all of the hand motions, steps, claps and shouts from the beginning. The dance ends with everyone moving quickly in a circle.The dance ends with everyone moving quickly in a circle.

Chicken DanceChicken Dance

The "Chicken Dance" is an The "Chicken Dance" is an oom-pah song composed by oom-pah song composed by Swiss accordion Swiss accordion (Handharmonika) player (Handharmonika) player Werner Thomas from Davos, Werner Thomas from Davos, Switzerland in the 1950s and Switzerland in the 1950s and the corresponding fad dance.the corresponding fad dance.

This is not the same dance as "The This is not the same dance as "The Chicken" popular in American Chicken" popular in American rhythm and blues in the 1950s, in rhythm and blues in the 1950s, in which the dancers flapped their which the dancers flapped their arms and kicked back their feet in arms and kicked back their feet in an imitation of a chicken.an imitation of a chicken.

Chicken Dance HistoryChicken Dance History

The name of the original Swiss song was The name of the original Swiss song was Der VogerltanzDer Vogerltanz (The Bird Dance). Since 1963 Werner Thomas had played it in restaurants and hotels. (The Bird Dance). Since 1963 Werner Thomas had played it in restaurants and hotels. During one of Thomas' performances, Belgian producer Louis van Rijmenant heard the song. Van Rijmenant had some lyrics created and in During one of Thomas' performances, Belgian producer Louis van Rijmenant heard the song. Van Rijmenant had some lyrics created and in 1970 released it to the public, without much success. In 1977, Dutch local band "De Electronic" released an instrumental version, which 1970 released it to the public, without much success. In 1977, Dutch local band "De Electronic" released an instrumental version, which became a hit, and started the international success of the song. On some recorded releases of the music Werner Thomas is listed as the became a hit, and started the international success of the song. On some recorded releases of the music Werner Thomas is listed as the composer, while on others other authors are listed, e.g., as "Thomas/Rendall/Hose", probably including the authors of the particular composer, while on others other authors are listed, e.g., as "Thomas/Rendall/Hose", probably including the authors of the particular arrangement. Since then the song has become known under numerous other "birdie" names, including "arrangement. Since then the song has become known under numerous other "birdie" names, including "VogerltanzVogerltanz" (Bird Dance), "Danse des " (Bird Dance), "Danse des Canards", "Chicken Dance" and "Dance Little Bird".Canards", "Chicken Dance" and "Dance Little Bird".

The dance was introduced in the United States in 1981 during the Tulsa, Oklahoma, Oktoberfest by the Heilbronn Band from Germany. They The dance was introduced in the United States in 1981 during the Tulsa, Oklahoma, Oktoberfest by the Heilbronn Band from Germany. They wanted to demonstrate the dance in costume but there were no duck costumes available anywhere near Tulsa. At a local television station, wanted to demonstrate the dance in costume but there were no duck costumes available anywhere near Tulsa. At a local television station, however, a chicken costume was available which was donated for use at the festival. And that is how the "Chicken Dance" got its name.however, a chicken costume was available which was donated for use at the festival. And that is how the "Chicken Dance" got its name.

Dance StepsDance Steps

Flap the wings upFlap the wings up The "Chicken Dance" song is accompanied by a The "Chicken Dance" song is accompanied by a

dance requiring a group of people, and it goes dance requiring a group of people, and it goes as follows:as follows:

At the start of the music, shape a chicken beak At the start of the music, shape a chicken beak with your hands. Open and close it four times, with your hands. Open and close it four times, during the first four beats of the music. during the first four beats of the music.

Make chicken wings with your arms. Flap your Make chicken wings with your arms. Flap your wings four times, during the next four beats of wings four times, during the next four beats of the music. the music.

Make a chicken's tail feathers with your arms Make a chicken's tail feathers with your arms and hands. Wiggle downwards during the next and hands. Wiggle downwards during the next four beats of the music.four beats of the music.

Clap four times during the next four beats of the Clap four times during the next four beats of the music. music.

Repeat this process four times. Repeat this process four times. At the bridge, hold your arms straight, in At the bridge, hold your arms straight, in

imitation of an aeroplane. All dancers spin imitation of an aeroplane. All dancers spin around the room in "flight" until the bridge around the room in "flight" until the bridge ends.ends.

(Alternately: At the bridge, link arms with the (Alternately: At the bridge, link arms with the nearest person, turn right eight steps, switch nearest person, turn right eight steps, switch arms and turn left eight steps, then repeat until arms and turn left eight steps, then repeat until the bridge ends) the bridge ends)

The dance repeats, progressively getting faster The dance repeats, progressively getting faster and faster, until the music stops. and faster, until the music stops.

References

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