Square Dance Lessons
Square Dance Lessons
The first three Mainstream (Level 1) Square Dance lessons were Monday, September 19, 26, and October 3 from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. The first lesson is FREE and the rest are only $5/person.
Angels (returning dancers) ages 18+ are encouraged to donate $1 at each lesson to help support the club.
With a few exceptions, lessons are held at the Northdale Middle School, 11301 Dogwood St., Coon Rapids, MN every Monday night from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., September through mid-March.
Plus lessons (Level 2) began October 24, 2011 and end March 2012.
Lessons are held from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. before the mainstream lessons, and cost $2 per person.
Location
Frequently Asked Questions by New Dancers
Lessons start September 19th and finish in mid-March. New dancers are welcome to begin at any of the first three lessons. We recommend attending all lessons if possible, since steps are taught in sequence.
What is the cost of lessons?
The first lesson is free. Otherwise, they are $5 per person for mainstream (Level 1).
Do I need a partner?
No, you do not need a partner. Singles and couples are most welcome at the Hotfoot Stompers club. Often, angels (veteran dancers) will dance with new dancers to help them at lessons. Everyone dances in a square with 7 other people.
Can I bring other people with me?
Yes! Please bring friends, neighbors, and relatives in September to lessons. Everyone is welcome.
How old should someone be to start dancing?
We have a range in ages of dancers from 7 years old to 80+. As our Caller (teacher), Dean Libby says, "As long as you know your right from your left and can walk to the beat of the music, you can square dance."
Is square dancing competitive?
No, not at all. Square dancing is purely for fun. People square dance for a variety of reasons including for exercise, to meet new people, and to learn something new.
What do I wear?
The dress for lessons is casual. Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. We only wear square dance attire for dances and demonstrations. We have a used clothing sale every year where you can purchase square dance clothes. There are also square dance shops (see the Links page for more information).
When can I go to my first square dance?
New dancer dances are offered starting in January. Make sure to check if the dance is a new dancer dance before going! Once you graduate from lessons in mid-March, you can attend any Mainstream dance.
How many levels of square dancing are there?
Level 1 is called Mainstream. The next level is called Plus, then Advanced 1, Advanced 2, and Challenge. Square dancers finish one level before going onto the next, and since square dance is just for fun, some people learn Advanced while others prefer just to learn Mainstream. It is not a competition and only you will be able to judge what level you are comfortable learning.
Light refreshments are provided. Bring your smile!
Lesson Schedule
Mainstream lessons (level 1) are Mondays 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. starting September 19th. Plus lessons (level 2) are Mondays from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. starting October 10th.
Sept 19
Sept 26
Oct. 3
Oct. 10
Oct. 24
Oct. 31
Nov. 7
Nov. 14
Nov. 21
Nov. 28
Dec. 5
Dec 12
Dec 19
Dec 26 NO LESSONS (Winter Break)
Jan 2 NO LESSONS (Winter Break)
Jan 9
Jan 16 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 7700 Monroe St NE Spring Lake Park, near Fridley (across the street from Unity Hospital)
Jan 23
Jan 30
Feb 6
Feb 13 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 7700 Monroe St NE Spring Lake Park, near Fridley (across the street from Unity Hospital)
Feb 20
Feb 27
Mar 5 Graduation
Caller Dean Libby
Dean Libby has been teaching mainstream and plus lessons at Hotfoot Stompers for over 10 years. He often incorporates magic tricks, jokes, and the occasional limerick in his lessons. For more information, click on Dean's webpage link.
