invites you to learn modern square dancing!

Modern square dancing is a language:

“... pass the ocean, spin the top, explode the wave ...”

Modern square dancing is a dance:

“... weave the ring, twirl, promenade ...”

Modern square dancing is a puzzle:

“What does `ends cross run' mean?”

You don't need a partner or any experience to get started. If you can walk and listen at the same time, you can square dance. Our 13-week class teaches everything you need to know about club-level square dancing. It is faster than any other class we know of, but then this is MIT. (A more typical class length is 40 weeks, but really, 13 weeks is plenty of time.)

Are square dance clothes not your style?  Wear what you like! Most club members dress informally; we have no dress code. But here are a few hints for comfortable dancing: wear cool clothes (a sweater will probably be too hot) and comfortable walking shoes with a soft sole.

“... flip the diamond, scoot back, extend ...”

“... spin chain and exchange the gears ...”

We teach all the terminology and moves you need to square dance anywhere in the world. Callers use these terms to direct the dancers in real time, possibly even making it up as they go along. Every dance is different, and you never know what's coming next. Although square dancing is identified mostly with the United States, its popularity has spread throughout the world. There are many clubs in Europe, Asia, and Australia as well as in the Americas.

Do you prefer couple dancing?  We do that, too! After each set of squares we do a cued form of ballroom dance known as round dancing. These dances are generally waltz, two-step, swing, or Latin. We hold round dance workshops at various times throughout the year.

All classes are held Tuesdays at 8pm at the Student Center. The first night is free; after that it is $2 for students and $3.50 for all others. Discounted subscriptions are available.

Now that you're excited about it, here are the details:

Fall class starts September 12, 2006
Tuesdays at 8pm, Lobdell, Student Center, 2nd floor
Your first night is free!

For information email squares@mit.edu or call 617-253-7000. We hope you'll come and join us!