Contra dancing in the West End tonite- come join in on a fun way to connect with others and move your body, beginner lessons at 645!

Submitted by ReynardSurplus t3_121s1a2 in rva

So... I never thought I'd be into dancing, much less dancing that's most relatable to outsiders by being described as "it's kinda like square dancing, but more involved...," But here I am about to go to my third contra dance because it's such a fun way to feel truly connected with community. Here's the link before I keep babbling: https://facebook.com/events/s/tadams-contra-dance-in-richmon/738484351109024/

As a total newbie, I had no idea what I was doing at the first dance, but there's always a tutorial session before the actual dance. They'll describe the basic moves and then give you a few practice sessions. You tend to have a different partner for each dance and you get set in groups of 4, but then with each ... Um musical verse? No clue what the lingo is, but after a series of moves in your group of 4, you and your partner will then connect with another pair and you eventually move through pretty much everyone in the room.

If you have any dancing experience, you're ahead of where I started and can probably keep up. It does get warm, so I'll be wearing a bandana and bringing a change of shirt. Sweat is to be expected! If you have any questions, feel free to message me or I'll be looking at comments. I'll answer what I can and what I can't I'll be sure to try to find the answers for you.

West End Ballroom at 2300 John Rolfe Parkway Beginners lessons at 6:45, actual dance at 7:30 til 1030, admission ~$10, proof of covid vaccine required

Live music the whole evening! Put on by TADAMS, Traditional American Dance and Music Society

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shalomfromus t1_jdn574a wrote

I’m imagining the way to do the contra dance is to jump up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, then you start?

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vtbeavens t1_jdnbxxe wrote

Select, Start if you're rocking that 2-player action.

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ReynardSurplus OP t1_jdndeqb wrote

That's all I could think my first time too! It was a lil bit of a letdown but the graphics are better at least.

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buttsofpoop t1_jdnfbsz wrote

Contra is so fun! Wish I could make it tonight. Highly recommend, and it's easy to catch on :)

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jeb_hoge t1_jdnbsl9 wrote

Not my thing, but my boss does this and she loves it. Goes to festivals all over the place for it.

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ReynardSurplus OP t1_jdndx5l wrote

I definitely didn't think it would be my thing either and ultimately I don't see myself getting it into it like your boss, but it amazed me how good it felt too just connect with others in such a playful, carefree way, especially after the isolation of the past few years.

I'm finding happiness in community settings and think yoga will be more of a stapler for me going forward, but happy to add this to my options of outlets. Thanks for the balanced input!

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leecanbe t1_jdo13cr wrote

Stonewall Richmond just ended their winter season for yoga, but they said they will most likely be doing a spring one. We had a good time going every Tuesday. Be sure to check em out.

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Desperate_Panda4711 t1_jdo5avy wrote

Thanks for the recommendation, leecanbe! I'm always looking for fun ways to stay active and connect with people in the community. Do you know when Stonewall Richmond will announce their spring yoga schedule?

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leecanbe t1_jdot1ea wrote

I don't, but I'm hoping soon. I follow them on IG. They have other stuff like kickball, volleyball and other things too.

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ReynardSurplus OP t1_jdqqu48 wrote

Sounds awesome! I'm based in Cville and have been loving the hot yoga environment, but will follow them and come join in sometime for sure- thanks for the recommendation!

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Aik2 t1_jdov4i9 wrote

I love contra dancing!!

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1yellowstoneguy t1_jdtgejp wrote

Look out for those spinning fire stick things folk. Contra dancing is no joke.

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