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===Objectives===
Fun, cooperation, getting to know each other, exercise, practice following directions to learn new skills . . .
===Group Size===
===Materials===
Live music is preferable - many small bands specialize in contra dance music.
An experienced "caller" is necessary. (Some bands include a caller. Contra callers and bands can usually recommend each other.
A large hall with room for dancing.
Comfortable dancing shoes. Some halls have shoe sole requirements or brushes for cleaning shoes to keep the floor surface smooth.Clothing should be in removable layers (dancers can get hot). Many dancers report that it is more fun to dance in a skirt that twirls well. Some male dancers prefer to wear skirts for this reason.A source of drinking water (dancers get hot and thirsty).
Fans for cooling the hall, if necessary.
Breath mints are often provided to help dancers prepare for close contact!
When there may be more of one gender, sometimes clothing props are provided to distinguish the "lead" in each couple - e.g., ties, so that each women who is leading puts on a tie.
===Set Up===
People do not have to attend as couples. Men and women can interchange in the roles of "lead" and "follower."
Most callers begin a dance with a 15 - 30 minute teaching session for beginners, to demonstrate the basics and have people practice the moves that come up in many dances. You will learn to identify your "corner." Simplest moves include the promenade, do-Se-do, swing, alamand, and right-hand star.Dances can range from easy to more complicated.
===Directions===
The caller gives all directions throughout each dance. More experienced dancers also help those who get confused, so no one has to worry about knowing or memorizing.
After each dance, people have the opportunity to find a new partner, or to sit out, rest, and watch [assuming there are enough people to continue the dancing].
===Debrief===
Discussions afterwards can be about what it was like to learn new dance techniquestogether, to be lead/follower, and such.
===Alternatives===
