Square dancing is about more than just the do-si-do.
More than 140 square dancers from Vancouver Island, British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest will be in Nanaimo Friday and Saturday (June 24-25) for a square dance festival at Cavallotti Lodge.
Organizer Bob Simpson said callers from Canada and the U.S. will be guiding dancers of all ages and abilities through the steps.
“Some of these people have been dancing for 40 years,” Simpson said.
Simpson and his wife, Dorothy, began square dancing about four years ago and calling the dance about two years ago. But their first experience with square dancing began as teens.
“Everyone starts when they’re in high school,” Simpson said.
For him, square dancing offers a physical activity that challenges the brain with memory and coordination.
“It’s a never-ending learning curve,” he said.
Although anyone can square dance and less emphasis is put on fancy footwork than other dance forms, beginners do need some instruction before diving in. Simpson has a 10-week course beginning in September at the Ukrainian Hall for anyone who’s interested.
Square dancers can move through the levels from beginner to advanced – even compete, if so inclined.
Those who remember twangy country music from their Grade 10 square dance classes might be surprised to hear Don McLean’s American Pie, the Eagles or even One Republic on Simpson’s playlist. He said he draws on music from the 1970s, ’80s and today.
“We use contemporary music – I don’t have any cowboy music,” Simpson said. “We need to take away that image of old high school square dancing … it has evolved over time.”
The costume has as well. Simpson said most folks show up in casual wear of shorts and running shoes, adding it’s usually the younger crowd which likes to wear the traditional crinolines and country clothing.
“Square dancing attire is admired, not required,” Simpson said.
The public is welcome to view the dancing at Cavallotti Lodge, 2060 E. Wellington Rd., Friday from 7:30-10 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; 2-4 p.m.; and 7:30-10 p.m.
For more information, please e-mail wheelarounds@shaw.ca.
