A pop song from the 80s heralds that it’s hip to be square, and Lloydminster’s Chain & Circle Square Dance Club is building on their traditions that started in 1954.
Over the coming months they will visit with other clubs on the Prairies. Practise and learning the dance moves is underway Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. for two hours at the City Church Hall, 5115-49 Street, Lloydminster.
“We have loads and loads of fun, and while we are doing that we square dance, which is a series of calls set to music,” says Jacquie Hall, vice president of the dance club.
Breaking it down for a younger audience, Janet Ryan, who does the club’s marketing says, “It’s a pattern dance that is impromptu and in the moment to modern music.”
The club held it’s introductory night on Wednesday, Oct. 7, and going forward is welcoming participants for $5 per person per Wednesday, plus a $10 annual membership fee.
“There’s a meme that compares gym membership to square dancing,” says Jacquie. “It says, if they only knew how much exercise they get for $5.”
The caller stands with the microphone and ad libs the calls and pattern for the participants to perform on the dance floor.
“In square dancing, you don’t even stay with the same partner,” says Janet. “You’re constantly moving around a square. You don’t need a partner. You don’t need fancy clothes or shoes. It’s active, mentally challenging and you can fiscally afford it.”
The club will be on the move in the coming months visiting with square dancers in Regina, Swift Current, and its annual trip to Invermere, B.C.
“Cypress Hills, and also Lacombe, they have a big weekend dance out,” says Janet. “Three days of square dancing.”
More information is available on social media via Square Dance Lloydminster Area or calling 780-872-2493. Also email: squaredancelloydarea@gmail.com.
Walk-ins are welcome any Wednesday evening, October through April.
“Everyone is welcome. Singles, couples, friends, families,” says the club on social media.
