Glenview Squares Offer Free Introductory Dance Lessons

Glenview Square: Glenview Square Dance Club will offer two, free "Intro to Square Dance" parties in August. The first will take place Saturday, Aug. 17, at 2 pm, at the Glenview Public Library (pre-registration required), 1930 Glenview Rd., Glenview. The second will take place Sunday, Aug. 25, at 6 pm, at the Glenview Park Center, 2400 Chestnut, Glenview.

"Square dancing is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to meeting new people, using your head, and enjoying some exercise," says Glenview Squares club member Myrnice Ravitch, who met her significant other during square dance classes.

Glenview Squares hosts free "Intro" parties twice a year to spread the word about the activity. "Square dancing is a re-emerging pastime. Dancers get hooked on the mental challenge and the way it brings people together to laugh and to learn," says Janice Cha, co-president of Glenview Squares. "Some people have compared square dancing to football, where the team runs the plays and the quarterback calls the shots. But for me, the easiest way to describe it is this: teamwork set to music."

Square dancing is also a good activity for those who tend to avoid formal exercise but still want to log steps on their step counters. "A good caller using fast-paced music can help you rack up 4,000 to 5,000 steps in an evening," Cha says.

Learning the many moves does require attention—and lessons. "At the Intro to Square Dance parties, attendees will learn about 20 calls. Once they've mastered the remaining calls at lessons (starting in September), they should be ready to take part in local square dances."

Chicago North Shore clubs offering beginning square dance lessons in September include Glenview Squares; North Shore Squares, in Evanston & Wilmette; ChiTown Squares, on Chicago's North Side; and Arlington Squares in Prospect Heights.

Both single people and couples are welcome to attend the square dance parties and lessons. "Club members look forward to helping new friends learn the basics," Cha says.

As for what to wear, "the dress code for today's square dancing is casual," Cha adds. "The most important things are comfortable shoes and a smile."

Beginning Square Dance lessons, hosted with the support of Glenview Squares members, are part of the Glenview Park Center's Adult Dance program. Weekly lessons begin on Tuesday, Sept. 3, at 7:30 pm. To register online, visit the Park District's website when registration opens in mid-August.