Whether from a particular country, tradition or era, a brief explanation of the culture, geographical location and/or possible reason for the creation of a particular tradition will be discussed engaging the students with a question and answer format. Students are then introduced to the music for that dance via rhythmic clapping exercises. Then the steps and sequence of the dance is broken down, taught and repeated giving students individual attention if needed. The dance is then done several times to help the students feel comfortable and successful while having lots of fun!

Vintage dance refers to dance, music and song and from the 20th century here in the United States. These are typically partner or group dances. Examples may include Swing dance, Fad dances, Disco dance, etc. all of which contribute to today’s Hip Hop style of dance. A traditional Square dance or Western-style line dance may also be included along with a “Round” dance and “Play Party Games” from the Appalachian mountains.

Cultural dance, songs and games involve ALL in the group so one participant is singled out. Skills gained include cooperation and team work, spacial awareness, physical coordination, moving in time to musical phrases and the knowledge that being together as part of a community dance can be really fun! It’s why through the centuries, people all over the world have created folk dances; to build community in a fun, noncompetitive environment as well as to display universal themes of their particular culture, and to invite those from other cultures to learn about their traditions through the non-threatening social interaction of dance. By providing some background into the history of a particular culture, it may also help students gain an understanding and tolerance of the multi-cultural world we live in today.