How to Perform a Dosado
The dosado (pronounced doe-se-doe) is a basic dance move that is used in such dances as the polka and the square dance. The name refers to the French term "dos-a-dos" which is translated as "back-to-back." The participants who perform at a dosado dance are led and directed by a caller. The caller directs the dancers in a series of steps. Dancers usually learn these steps beforehand.
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Things You'll Need
- Dance hall
- Partner
- Caller
- Square dance music
- Understanding of basic dosado moves
- Comfortable shoes
Instructions
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1
Join a dance class in your local area. Dosado dancing is a fabulous way to socialize and build lasting friendships. No experience is needed to take a class to learn the basic moves.
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2
Find a partner and start practicing. The earlier start you get on practicing before a formal dance, the more you will be able to participate by dancing the steps that the caller directs.
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3
Decide which role you want to dance, the traditional men's role or the traditional women's role. It doesn't matter in modern times. Women dance with women and men even dance with men.
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4
Face your partner to start, then walk around each other without turning. This step will coordinate with about 6 to 8 rhythm beats.
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5
Pass another dancer to the right of their shoulder as you become more advanced. This is when the partners will turn "back to back."
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Move backwards and pass your partner on their left shoulder to get back to your starting point. You can repeat this over and over again.
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Add in a square dance flourish for a fun and more dramatic touch. This also allows some physical contact with your partner if they twirl or dip you.
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Start a tidal wave in groups of eight or more people. Stand side to side, join hands by the palms and enact a mini-wave.
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Tips & Warnings
Beginning dosado dancers should pick a role before they perform and stick with it for a few months.
When space is limited, participants should pass sideways by their partner's shoulders to make more room for the other dancers.
Wear shoes that have smooth wooden or plastic soles. Cowboy boots actually work best for a smooth uninterrupted turn.
Drink plenty of water while you are dancing. Dancing will dehydrate the body and you should rehydrate during the breaks between songs.
Be warned, dosado songs are longer than normal radio songs. They can last up to 15 minutes.
