I've been thinking about dances with distinctive figures recently. Here's one that people have enjoyed; I think it may be the minimal improper dance with contra corners, as it avoids the half figure eight which, while fun, causes confusion for beginners.


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Cassoulet


Duple minor improper contra dance

Roger Hayes, August 2016


A1 Circle left ½,

     Ladies roll away L to R with neighbor

     Circle left ½,

     Gents roll away L to R with neighbor

A2 Demi pousette,

     Long lines forward and back

B1 Contra corners

B2 Actives balance and swing


Demi pousette: 1’s do a ½ draw pousette starting above improper, ending below proper, while 2’s do a normal ½ pousette to move up. So the 1 gent pulls partner out of the set and back in, moving in an arc with the gent always in the forefront, while the 2 gent pulls partner out of the set then 2 lady pulls partner back in, describing a V shape.


This dance benefits from spacious circles.