Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome! Come in and make yourself at home. This page will assist in answering your questions about our club. If you have further questions ask one of the executive members.

What is recreational  Folk Dancing?
It is, as the name suggests, an opportunity to learn and dance, in a social setting, dances from all over the world. It is a social event -- an opportunity to meet new friends and socialize at the same time as dancing to great music!
Do I need experience?
No - we teach dances during most classes. The group comprises beginners and experienced dancers.
How can I learn?
It is a social club that meets and offers classes from September to May each year. Classes are taught by volunteers most of whom have danced for many years. The evenings are organized as follows:
                       Folkdance Fridays                                                                          Israeli

. We also occasionally organize special events such as workshops, theme nights, and after parties.

Do I need any special equipment?
Just you and your feet - and a desire to have fun! Soft soled shoes makes it easier to dance and non-street shoes keep our wood dance floor clean and free of black marks.
Do I need a partner?
No - most of the dances do not require partners; they are done in lines and circles. We do some couples dances that require a partner but there are many of us that come alone and we just mix 'n match.
Do I have to learn and dance every dance?
You need only learn the dances you want... and you only have to dance when you feel like it. We do ask however, that if you don't know a dance, watch or try to pick it up from behind the line or circle.
How do I know which dance is being done?
The class and review material is outlined on the whiteboard.. The Request Program is presented on the right side of the whiteboard. Dances marked with a "C" are partner dances. A triangle indicates more difficulty while a '*' is used to indicate dances that are simple... everyone is encouraged to join in these!
How do I request a dance?
There is a sheet for you to place your request each week. The programmer will attempt to include your request in the program.
Can I dance dances that I don't know or ones that look hard?
You are encouraged to participate fully in all the classes. During the program later in the evening you are encouraged to join in dances that you know, dances that you have been taught in the classes, and any of the simple dances marked as such on the whiteboard. You are welcome to try other dances by standing behind line or circle - behind someone who knows the dance so you can follow the footwork.
How can I join a line or circle?
Many of the dances are done in lines or circles. These dances don't need a partner. The dances (generally) move in a counter-clockwise direction (to the right). It is considered polite to join on the left end of a line or somewhere in the middle. Lines and circles almost always have a leader who is an experienced dancer and who knows the dance well. The leader is responsible for calling changes in figures. If you need to watch someone the leader is usually the best bet.
Can I bring my children?
Children are welcome! We ask that parents be responsible for making sure that their children are not disruptive. For everyone's safety, children that are not participating in the dancing must stay out of the way of the dancers.
Thank you for coming to Israeli/Calgary Folkdance Fridays. If you have any further questions feel free to ask anyone. If they can't help you they will find someone who can (executive members are available for comments and suggestions).

HOPA! YASOU! and CHEERIO!

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