What is Folk Dancing?

Folk dance is a class of dancing which initiates as a ethnic expression from  folks around the planet at the level of the small town.  Square dance is a form of folk dance familiar to most Americans, but many other forms of dance can be encountered in nations around the world.

It is unexcelled as a cross cultural activity.  The flavor and personalities of the common people from any given country come through in the universal language of music, rhythm and movement.  It is a means of transcending the linguistic and political barriers which too often separate us. 

Folk dancing can take the form lines of of separate or combined male and females.  It can be a circle dance, it can be danced in couples either alone or in formations (such as the American square dance).  It can be in the form of couples in which partners are switched with each cycle of steps.

Which National Dances Popular?
Dances originate from Greece, former Yugoslavian republics, Turkey, Russia, Germany, Romania, Bulgaria, England, Germany, Scandinavia, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Japan are the most popular folk dances around the world encountered in most folk dance classes.

Folk Dancing : Social, Cultural and Physical Activity
The sheer enjoyment of dancing in a circle of friendly people is reward enough. But, in addition, like all dance forms, it is an excellent means of improving one's physical (and mental) fitness.

Folk dances are for all ages
A person who keeps dancing never grows old. That adage certainly holds up in this case,. Due to the variety of temp, there will be dances which satisfy a person of any age. It is an activity which engages all ages, brining us together in a manner too rare in today's world. Youthful attenders are eagerly sought, as they bring refreshing energy to the group, and will carry on the tradition of folk dancing into the future.

Beat your shyness
No partners are required. Many dances are line or circle dances which do not require partners. Partner dances which are played give you an opportunity to meet other dancers on the spot. Shyness will be dissipated from the moment you lock arms and begin to master the steps. Even if you consider yourself the ultimate klutz, the rhythm and timing of the music and the group will have your body moving harmoniously. Folk dance groups are known for the smiling encouragement and support offered to newcomers. After this experience, your right foot will compliment your left foot.

Folk Dance Dressing
Very casual loose fitting clothing are perfect for the classes. Wear clothing in which you are most comfortable. Shoes too should be comfortable enough to allow you easy freedom of movement. Shoes which do not leave black scuff marks on the floor are important.