Contra Waltz

Contra Waltz has developed as a very freeform variation of traditional ballroom waltzing. The stepping is very simple - you only have to learn to walk in waltz time: 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3. Then you just flow around the dance floor with your partner.

You can choose a number of different holds and just walk together; you can throw in simple turns when you wish; and you can add countless variations "borrowed" from other dance forms.

If you have done other dances such as Modern Jive/Ceroc/LeRoc then you can use many of the moves you already know to spice up your contra waltzing: Basket, Neck Break, Man Spin, Butterfly, Windmill, Propeller and lots more!

At most contra dances you will find that they play waltz music while people are arriving, at the interval and as a bonus dance after the main dance has finished

Have a look at some of the videos below to get a feel for the contra waltz.

We will be teaching Contra Waltz Workshops in the afternoon before each Saturday evening dance. You don't need any previous waltz experience to join in - we will be teaching the basics at the beginning of the workshop. Then, once everyone can walk in waltz time, we will show you lots more variations you can add - the beginners can focus on practicing a few that they like, and the experienced waltzers will have lots to challenge them as well!