Contra dancing for fun and fitness
BY JOHN DUNPHY
SHOULD you decide to venture forth when the weather outside is frightful, you might consider heading to the Suzanne Patterson Building in Princeton on Wednesday nights and kicking up your heels with the Princeton Country Dancers, and organization that holds weekly contra dances for anyone who is looking to move — a lot.
Visually similar to line dancing, contra dances, or New England folk dances, “are lively and easy to learn,” says member Margoleath Berman. “At a contra dance, attendance as a couple is not required; traditionally, one switches partners after every dance. As in square dancing, each dance is ‘called,’ and the caller starts each new dance with a brief walkthrough to teach the movements.”
Steve Tayler, a member of Princeton Country Dancers for 15 years, says there’s a lot of movement in contra dancing, but “it’s fun movement.”
Mr. Tayler, a Plainsboro resident, says the dances are certainly enjoyable if you’re already in shape; likewise, the physical activity itself can help those suffering from the winter doldrums reach their fitness goals. “It’s wonderful exercise, especially during the winter months. It’s also enjoyable because there’s a live band, a live caller and you get to know your callers.”
“It’s not just exercise, but a good way to exercise and have fun wherever you go,” he adds.
For more information about Princeton Country Dancers, visit www.princetoncountrydancers.org