Mainstream Program

Each call definition contains eight parts.

1. Name of the call. This is how the call is listed on the dance program. Usually this is also how the call is called.

2. Starting formation. Except when impractical, all of the common starting formations are listed. In rare cases, the word “only” appears indicating that only the listed starting formations and no others are to be used. All the formations used in these definitions are defined in the “Formations” appendix. Further commentary on starting formations can be found in “Additional Detail: Starting Formations”.

3. Command examples. Many of the common phrases used to “call” this call are listed. The simplest or most common is listed first. Some of the command examples include patter and/or helping words. See “Additional Detail: Commands: Extra words”.

4. Dance action. A description of how to do the call either in English words, other calls, or a combination of both. Complex calls are described sequentially, part by part. The descriptions are written to work from all of the starting formations listed. They try to capture in words the essence of the call. See “Appendix B: Descriptive Terminology” and “Additional Detail: Dance action: Definitional Precision”.

5. Ending formation. The ending formations are given so that the reader can double check his understanding of the call. All the formations used in these definitions are defined in the “Formations” appendix.

6. Timing. While executing each call, the dancers should take one step for each beat of music. The number of steps (or beats) as determined by the Timing committee is given for each of the calls. See “Additional Detail: Timing”.

7. Styling. The recommended styling, including arm position, handholds, and skirt work, is given. See “Additional Detail: Styling” for more detail and definitions of the terms used.

8. Comments. Important information, clarification, exceptions, and usages are contained in this section.