Circle Dancing through U3A is a wonderful way to have fun, keep fit and make friends. It welcomes people of all fitness levels. No prior dance experience is needed. No partners are needed. Circle Dancing is a shared experience and the group energy creates a sense of wellbeing. We are Together in Dance.
Easy steps
Steps in Circle Dancing are relatively simple, easy to learn and often instinctive. There are no wrong moves! All dance steps are carefully taught. Beginners can join at any time.
Before each dance the teacher carefully demonstrates the rhythmic steps. She then starts the music and continues to call out the steps as the dance proceeds. Soon the circle begins to move as one.
Our connection and enjoyment of these steps increase with time. There are a number of repeated step patterns: grapevines, slip steps, yemenites and so on. For different dances, these step patterns are threaded together in different sequences to fit the music.
Our bodies seem to remember quickly. People often comment how much their dance confidence has grown after just a few weeks' attendance.
Aims
The main aim of Circle Dancing is to experience the joy of dancing in a community. There is no competitiveness and no such thing as mistakes - only variations. Even people who think they have "two left feet" or "newbie nerves" quickly feel supported by the group. We don't obsess over correctness or dance performance. We encourage dancers to enter into the spirit of the dance and give themselves time to learn and enjoy.
Moving meditation
Circle Dancing is more than exercise. It has been described as a moving meditation. The steps help focus the mind. When the mind wanders the feet "fall out of step". When this happens we simply refocus and return our body and mind to the dance.
Centrepiece
A decorative centrepiece helps keep the dance circle in the same place in the room. It also provides a focal point for the shared group energy.
Traditional centrepiece of evergreens, lanterns and candles for Winter Solstice 2022
Benefits of Circle Dancing
Circle Dancing involves light to moderate rhythmical movement. It greatly helps balance, posture and body co-ordination. It also has cognitive benefits: building neural pathways across left and right brain. It assists with memory. It improves body image, self-esteem, concentration and connection. Circle Dancing is meaningful and uplifting. Leaves dancers with a calm, centred feeling.
Uplifting music
We dance to music that is beautiful and inspiring. It comes from a huge variety of sources, broadening our understanding of cultures and styles including folk (Celtic, Greek, Jewish, Slavic, Brazilian and more). Circle Dancing dates back to ancient times. It's mentioned in the Bible. Indigenous and other old cultures from around the world still practice it.
We dance to different tempos
- from lullabies to jigs
- from sacred music to swing
- from tribal music to klezmer
- from waltz to latin beats
We dance to world music, classical, medieval, modern, folk and pop. And to singers from the Four Aces to Doris Day to Joan Baez to Loreena McKinnett.
What to Wear / Bring?
Wear anything you feel comfortable in. People often experiment with different footwear. Light-weight soft-soled shoes seem to work best. Some people dance barefoot. Bring a water bottle or thermos to sip during breaks.
Special Event - candle dancing on Winter Solstice