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Folk Dance

Contra

Contra dancing is a traditional, early American form of dance that came from England and France during the 17th century. Its popularity thrived in the states through the 19th century, but waned during the beginning of the 20th century. It survived in some areas of the country, which allowed the dance to regain popularity in the 1950s. Kansas is one of the states in which contra dance has made a comeback.

The dance itself is similar to square dancing, in which the dance steps are called out for couples to follow. Couples dancing the contra are arranged in two lines adjacent to one another; the purpose of this being the line system makes it easier for participants to switch partners throughout the song. The caller (or person who announces the steps) walks everyone through the sequence of movements before the music begins. When the music is cued, the dancers go through the series of steps several times before the caller quiets himself at the end of the song. Then, he repeats the call once more to signal the completion of the dance.

Each group of dancers has its own set of traditions that they generally follow, like changing partners after each dance, or not wearing shoes. Don't worry about following tradition if you are a first timer. Most regulars at the contra dance gatherings are more concerned about teaching you the steps than about what you're wearing.

If you are interested in dancing the contra in Kansas, your options are almost endless, as there are numerous dances that take place throughout the state. In Wichita, there's a contra dance held on the first Saturday of every month, while in North Newton, dances are scheduled for the second Saturday of each month. In Cottonwood Falls, dances are on the third Saturday of each month, and in town of Salina on the fourth Saturday. Check your local listing for more opportunities to contra.

Barn Dances

Although the term'barn dance' can refer to any dance event held in a barn, in Kansas it refers to a wholesome, family-friendly event. Dance styles include contra, waltz, square, circle, and other kinds of folk dances. Kansas barn dances are all about clean fun in a friendly atmosphere. Visitors can head over to the Merriam Barn Dance in Merriam held on the second Saturday of every month, and the Midtown Barn Dance in Kansas City on the fourth for some barn dance fun. But make sure to check your local listings for other events.

Professional Dance

Ballet

Many lovers of the art of dance particularly enjoy the ballet. This may be because of the elegant and seemingly effortless movement and control of the dancers, the cohesion of the dance with the music of the orchestra, the mastery of telling a story through dance, or a nice combination of it all. Whatever it is that strikes you, if you love ballet, you will be pleased to learn that Kansas is home to several well-established ballet companies. For instance:

Kansas City Ballet (Kansas City)

Ballet Wichita (Wichita)

Ballet Midwest (Topeka)

Check the listings of the area you are staying in, because opportunity may arise to see ballet in all forms, from a children's recital, to a performance of The Nutcracker by traveling ballet groups like the Moscow Ballet.

Modern and Contemporary

Elements of classical ballet are often found in other methods of dance such as hip-hop and other contemporary forms. So, if you are interested in ballet, you may want to also look into modern and contemporary dance performances. Contemporary dance came into being during the early 20th century when professional dancers felt the need to break away from the traditional ballet forms and express themselves through other mediums. Modern and contemporary dance can be anything from hip-hop to jazz, or even a combination of these dances with ballet and other classical styles. Some modern dance companies in Kansas are:

Wylliams/Henry Contemporary Dance Company (Kansas City)

Prairie Wind Dancers (Lawrence)

Local events calenders will be well-equipped to fill you in on when any dance performances will be taking place during your Kansas vacation.

Do It Yourself

Instruction

If you are interested in learning a few steps while in Kansas, the opportunities are almost endless dance instruction. Each town and city has dance studios, many with private and group sessions. Some classes are made by appointment and some you join in at will. Check your areas listings for times, rates, and the type of dance each location teaches.

Nightclubs

If you want to get out, dance, and meet some of the locals, your best bet is to visit an area nightclub. Though these clubs rarely have formal dance events, there are live bands and dancing is always welcome. Some of the nightclubs you may want to check out include:

Wild Rose Incorporated (Hays)

The Madrid (Lawrence)

Flashbacks (Wichita)

The Hurricane (Kansas City)

Mannequin (Topeka)

Dance Halls and Centers

If dancing at a nightclub isn't your style, look into your area's dance halls and centers. Here participants have the opportunity to dance in a more formal, less high-strung atmosphere. Ballroom, swing, and jazz are favorites in locations such as Walter's Dance Center in Kansas City.

Certainly a popular pastime in Kansas, dance is available in many forms in the Sunflower State. From attending a classical ballet or modern dance performance to learning how to dance the contra at a barn dance, there's plenty to do when it comes to the art of dance in Kansas.

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