Historic American Contra
American contra dances descended from English country dances, featuring line formations and caller-led movements.
3 dance styles in this genre
Dance Styles
Contra Dance
Also known as: American Contra, New England Contra
Contra dances were American adaptations of English country dances, performed in two parallel lines with caller direction, and remain popular in contemporary folk dance communities.
Virginia Reel
Also known as: Virginia Reel, American Reel
The Virginia Reel was a specific contra dance tradition from colonial Virginia featuring specific figures and remaining popular in American schools and folk communities.
Square Dance
Also known as: American Square Dance
American square dances evolved from French quadrilles and English country dances, adapted to frontier life with caller direction and remaining central to American folk culture.