Eight people form a square of four couples. The dancers follow instructions from a caller who directs them in a series of calls which, in turn, consists of series of steps. Square dancers begin by learning these calls through classes.
Why square dance?
Square dancing is undergoing a revival in America, and gay men and
lesbians are forming square dance clubs in increasing numbers. As
exercise, it's a great way to get a cardiovascular workout; as a
form of socializing, gay men and lesbians can meet in a stress-,
smoke- and alcohol-free environment. Club members feel a special
fellowship toward one another, and develop lasting friendships
(and more!).
Who dances which part?
You decide which part you would like to dance. In "straight" square
dancing, the couples are always male / female and each gender performs
the calls in a specific way. In gay square dancing, however, men dance
with men, women dance with women, men dance with women, and women
often lead!
Must I bring a dance partner?
No, but you can. Singles and couples are welcome.
Do I need a costume or special clothing?
Unlike "straight" square dance clubs that generally require members
to wear special square dance clothing, no particular costume is
required for gay square dancing. Those who choose to dance the "lead"
role sometimes wear bandannas around their necks to help the callers
and other dancers recognize them.
What is the history of the Chesapeake Squares?
The Chesapeake Squares was founded in 1986 with the help of the
DC Lambda Squares,
our sister club in Washington, DC. Their first class was held in 1987,
and more than a few of these members are still dancing today. In
July 2000, Chesapeake Squares was the proud host of the 17th Annual
IAGSDC convention, Crack the Crab,
which brought over 1000 gay and lesbian square dancers to Baltimore's
Inner Harbor. A couple of our members have even become square dance
callers!
Are there any other gay square dance clubs around the country?
Yes. In fact, our close neighbors include
the DC Lambda Squares,
the Philadelphia
Independence Squares,
the New York Times Squares,
the Susquehanna Squares of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and
the Iron City Squares in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Beyond these there are some 60 other clubs throughout the United States,
4 in Canada and 1 each in Japan and Denmark! Since all these clubs use
a standardized set of calls, dancers from one club are always welcome
to dance in other cities, as long as their level of experience is at
or above the announced level of the dance being held.
The national organization that brings all these Lesbian and Gay clubs together is the International Association of Gay Square Dance Clubs. The IAGSDC holds a square dance convention each year. The next convention will be in Denver, Colorado on May 25-28, 2007 - click here for details.
Smaller weekend gatherings are also held frequently during the year around the country. The home club functions as host, and dancers from around the country "fly-in" to dance, visit old friends, make new ones, and have an all-around good time. Chesapeake Squares hosts our annual fly-in in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware during the first weekend in May.
How can I get more information?
Come to an open house and speak with
current Chesapeake Squares members, or contact
the club.
Click here to return to Chesapeake Squares
main page.