How to Perform a Promenade Walk

Promenade is derived from the words "to walk." It is the basic dance move for square dancing. Both partners act as one by moving with each other. This is very different than other dance steps which require partners to become natural opposites. Partners usually stand side by side and the man is typically to the left of the woman. There are different handholding positions determined by the dance.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Partner sets of couples
• Basic understanding of dance
• Partner
• Promenade dance music
• Large open area
• Comfortable shoes to walk in

Perform Promenade Walk Handholds

1. Use the basic position to unite a couple with waist level handholding in the front of each partner. As you dance, the man's right arm will cross in front of the woman's left arm.

2. Place the right palm down and have your partner take it in his left hand. He will wrap his right hand around the waist softly. The lady will use her other arm to hold her skirt.

3. Cross your right arm behind the woman and hold her left hand. This is called the shadow or horseshoe position.

4. Try the sweetheart wrap. The man holds his partner around the waist and she wraps her arms around him.

Perform a Promenade Flourish

5. Involve at least four couples to perform as a set. The more sets you can get involved in the dance, the more creative you can become.

6. Turn the entire set together, side by side counterclockwise and walk in a circle, arriving at the same spot you started in. This may take up a lot of room, so prepare your space beforehand.

7. Dip your partner or twirl her after the set completes the flourish. This is usually done and leads into the next promenade flourish.

8. Repeat the process with the same set or with other sets circling around your set. Other sets of couples can follow your circle and can then even intermingle with each other.

9. Switch partners within your set for some added variety.

Tips & Warnings

• The promenade positions that dancers perform in ballroom dancing differ.
• This type of dance is also popular among families.
• Barnyard or cowboy costumes can be worn to enhance the fun.
• Songs can last anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes each with 10 minute breaks in between to indulge in refreshments.
• Do not wear shoes that have rubber bottoms. They will stick to the floor during turns and will make the entire set stray from their united position.