Connection in Partner Dances

This workshop will explore a series of exercises to help you be aware of your own body, connect with the music and a partner, and lead and follow a variety of movement. We’ll then apply what you have learnt to some of the partnered dances common in balfolk such as schottische and mazurka.

Some previous dance experience is helpful but not required, and no familiarity with balfolk is assumed. While we will be working mostly in the context of balfolk, the principles are relevant to almost any partnered dance (swing, blues, salsa, tango, even contra). This workshop will be taught ‘switch’: everyone will learn to both lead and follow. It should be useful for everyone from beginners to experts, either way there'll be something for you to get out of it.