Classes
General Information
We offer classes on a weekly basis from September to May each year. All classes are held at Parkdale United Church in Hintonburg.
Classes are based on the skill level of the dancer and follow a standard curriculum. Beginners start in Level 1. As you gain experience you will be able to progress to the other classes.
Each class covers the steps and formations of Scottish Country Dance. Focus is on learning the dances that will be featured in our monthly dances.
The first three classes are free, so come out and join us to see what it is all about!
Classes
Sept 2024 - May 2025
Level 1/2
Thursdays 7 to 9 PM* - Beginners start in this class.
Level 2/3
Tuesdays 7 to 9 PM* - This class is for experienced dancers.
Afternoon Social
Wednesdays 12:30 to 2:30 PM - This class is for any dancer above Level 1 who wishes to dance in a relaxed class which covers a variety of dances.
* There may be an optional step and formation practice session in these classes from 6:30 to 7:00. Timing and content will be announced by the instructor.
What to expect
When you are ready to try your first class you will probably have lots of questions! This section will help you prepare and be ready to enjoy the dance. Once you are in class, feel free to talk to any teacher or class convenor with any questions you might have. They are anxious to get to know you!
Do I need to bring a partner?
No! Scottish Country Dancing is a social activity and dancers normally change partners for each dance.
What should I wear to dance?
Classes are exercise so you should wear comfortable clothes you can move in. Foot wear is important!
We suggest soft, light shoes to begin with. Most women dancers buy ballet or jazz dancing shoes and both women and men may buy ghillies. Your class teacher or convenor will advise you about the nearest place to purchase shoes.
Do I need to bring anything?
You will be exercising, and the hall can get warm, so everyone is encouraged to bring a water bottle for hydration.
Directions to class
Classes are held in the gymnasium of Parkdale United Church in Hintonburg. Parking is available on the north side of the church. The driveway entrance is on Parkdale, just next to the church's sign. The entrance to the gym is the door at the far end of the building.
Church
Driveway
Parking lot
x Entry door
Bus route 14
x Sign
Convenor
Ruth
Prem
In Class
The doors open a half hour before class time so you can get ready before the dancing starts. When you arrive, you will see a lot of people changing their shoes! Be sure to change into your indoor/dancing shoes first.
At one end of the hall, by the kitchen, there is a sign-in table. You will be greeted by one of the class convenors who will collect your information. Before the class starts people will start to walk around the gym to warm up. Feel free to join in!
The instructor starts the class with warm-up stretches, very important before you exercise. They then ask everyone to get a partner for the first dance. Partners change for every dance so if no one asks you, go ahead and ask someone near you.
There will be a break midway during the class so people can chat and listen to announcements. The class ends with a cool down stretch.
Hope you have fun. See you next week!
Instructor
Marion
Level 1/2 Class
Instructor
Emily
Convenors
Gillian
Mary
Afternoon Social Class
Instructors
Eileen and Charlie
Guy
Convenor
Leslie
Already a Dancer?
If you have experience in Scottish Country Dancing, be sure to check out our other classes. Level 2/3 is a teaching class that focuses on more advanced technique and formations. The Afternoon Social Class is a relaxed social class that practices dances for upcoming events, as well as many other favourites. Whether you are just visiting or looking for a class, please join us!
Level 2/3 Class
Dancing Etiquette
We all want Scottish Country Dancing to be a safe and inclusive activity. Please review these guidelines for helpful information on how we make that happen.