vegevore Contra-Dance: 1. Style: The dances are generally kept at a beginner level since about 1/4 of the people on most nights have never done this before. Typically 80-120 people show up, often more women than men, but not always: it's usually fairly well balanced. There is a live band and a live caller with almost every dance being taught first (excepting a waltz or 2) then speeding up to an aerobic level with most of the moves simple but fast. This is a modernized form of olde tyme square dancing, and we occasionly do some of those but they're not as much fun. Lines of couples form with each round of the music going thru a pattern with pairs of 2 couples who then progress up or down the line. (In each group of 4 people, usually the members of the first couple switch sides: hence the 'contra' [well, not really: 'contra' is a variation on the word 'country'.) 2. Single?: No partners are required as one is strongly encouraged to get a new partner after every dance and most of the people will dance with anyone. 3. Clothing: Dress lightly (or in layers) since it is a very aerobic activity (you will sweat) and with shoes that you can easily swing in. The dress style is mostly casual (not usually any cowboy boots). 4. Time: A pre-teaching session for new people is usually held at 8:00 pm with the dance itself starting at 8:30 and going until 11:30 with a short break with juice and no smoking usually the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Saturdays from Sept to June. 5. Location: Usually at a church in the downtown Toronto area (there is no religious affiliation). Most of the dances this year will be at Trinity Church next to the Eaton Centre SW of Dundas & Yonge. 6. Hint for swinging: Put your right foot in (toe-toe to your partner) and pivot on it, using your left foot to push yourself around. Some people may get dizzy the first few times until they learn to adjust their gaze. 7. Link: For further details, see the website of the Toronto Country Dancers .