Overall, the negative elements influencing today’s decline appear to have put square dancing in the crosshairs of becoming a dying tradition, a dance that dates back for centuries to England, France and Ireland. The lively dance form eventually migrated to Canada via European settlers who established the foundation of the country’s square-dancing history – a tradition currently besieged by the threat of dwindling numbers. It’s a dance form which, at its most basic level, is simple: four couples, eight dancers in total, arranged in a square with one couple on each side facing the middle of the square. A “caller” calls out various steps and moves to music, with dancers following along as instructed. While the basic format remains, it has morphed into the new and modern square dance of today in which the great majority of dancers participate. In general, the prognosis for square-dancing clubs is not good, say the Davidsons along with others of their senior generation who share that opinion. Nevertheless, it is not an opinion shared by all. While some say that the dance is nearing the end of its relevance and popularity, others abide by the famous saying once uttered by American baseball great, Yogi Berra, that “it ain’t over ‘til it’s over.” In fact, functioning under the auspices of the Canadian Square and Round Dance Society, there is a hard-working, dedicated contingent of dancers across the country unwilling to throw in the towel. Rightly or wrongly, they strongly believe that the future of square dancing is not lost. As a result, various latter-day strategies have been rolled out to stem the loss of numbers and to spark interest among all age groups – in particular, the younger generation. Change and accommodation have been the key elements in a blueprint for successful recruitment and retention. Relaxing the rigid, old-style dress code has been one of them. Traditional, country-style flared skirts for women and classic western-style shirts, ties and sashes for men are no longer expected attire. Ordinary casual clothing is now the norm, except for special occasions and dance festivals. In addition, many clubs have established an online platform promoting the fun and many positive health issues that square dancing has to offer. Some clubs have introduced free demonstration nights and “bring a friend” nights – both orchestrated to showcase the sheer fun and enjoyment which square dancing can provide. Other clubs have introduced short-term, streamlined teaching courses designed to have newcomers hitting the dance floor quickly without committing to years of intense lessons. Expanded musical variety is also part of the recruitment plan. Today’s modern clubs are increasingly dancing to the recorded music of pop, rock, country, disco and more – genres more likely to attract the younger generation. While the live music of old-time fiddles, banjos and guitars is less prominent today than it once was, it is still enjoyed in various clubs across the country. In spite of dedicated efforts to keep the tradition of square dancing alive both now and in the future, there is a strong whiff in the air which suggests that its long-term survival is tenuous. “It’s definitely a struggle,” admits Roy. Only time will tell how the struggle plays out. For the present, there is no definitive evidence determining whether or not square dancing is on its last legs. Special Report Photo: Zoe Bremer. CC BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0) CSANews | SUMMER 2026 | 35
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