Re: [Callers] calling squares

If you're going to start calling squares, Martha, I suggest you do what is comfortable for you. Unless of course this challenge is like, "how many beers can you drink", and you're a real risk taker. I think that if you call contras, New England squares would be the next logical type of square to call. No matter what kind of square you call, you should have (or develop) good skills in watching the dancers. That means no cards. For example, when you call an allemande left, grand right and left, you should be able to follow a couple around the set. While you are calling a square you need to be constantly watching. Your mind will be working much harder calling a square than when calling a contra. If you're interested in checking out the various styles of square dancing, I suggest reading Ralph Sweet's book, Let's Create Old Tyme Dancing. Don't know if it's still in print. For many non New England squares, calling in fours is the way to go. You can start on one or start on 5. But I would suggest to be prepared to abandon that from time to time as things happen on the dance floor. Tom