Sashay into square dancing this fall
Here's your chance to learn the Official Folk Dance of Illinois since 1990 -- the square dance.
Woodstock Squares begins its next 10-week session of square dance lessons on Sep. 11. Lessons are scheduled from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Whispering Hills Community Center, 4708 Jeffrey St. (at the corner of Oeffling Drive) in Johnsburg.
The lessons are open to residents of all towns.
Students will dance with members of Woodstock Squares, led by a professional caller/teacher. Everyone is dancing by the end of the first night. This is a great way to exercise both mind and body
Singles, couples, and children age eight and older with an adult are welcome. The first two lessons are offered at no obligation.
A 10-week session costs $50 per person. Lessons will be offered for the first three levels of square dance -- basic for new students, mainstream and plus. Students can sign up for the level they need. This format offers those with some dance experience the chance for a refresher. The three dance levels will meet at the same time and place.
Not only will students be dancing quickly in lessons, they can attend special student dances held throughout the year, sponsored by clubs and by the Metropolitan Chicago Association of Square Dancers.
By next summer, students will be ready to enjoy the Illinois State Square Dance Convention in Lincoln.
Today, square dance dress styles are evolving. Women wear long skirts as well as the colorful circle skirts and crinolines. Also, Western-style clothing is popular with both men and women.
Woodstock Squares hosts square dances every second Friday in Woodstock, September through June, at Verda Dierzen Early Learning Center, Route 47 across from the county government center.
Guest callers keep the floor moving. Squares alternate with round dancing, and snacks are provided. Spectators are welcome.
For more information about Chicago area square dancing, visit Web site www.squaredancechicago. com.
For information about lessons or Woodstock Squares, call Mel or Cheri Moehling at (815) 385-6638 or Don or Barb Zamasti at (815) 385-4503.