I’m reading Mary McNab Dart’s book, Contra Dance Choreography – A Reflection of Social Change (Amazon ref (out of print), online review). Of course I can’t read it without comparing what she’s saying with the MWSD scene, and I’ll probably be making copious notes here when I have the time. I’d love to own a copy; I got the book from interlibrary loan and have to return it soon.

I’m interested in how contra dance choreographers go about composing dances. As an MWSD caller, I “compose” dances all the time…mostly off the top of my head. But since it looks like MWSD is moving towards a simpler, more accessible set of calls, I find it interesting to look at the factors that go into composing dances with just a few basics.

I’ll also be reading Cary Ravitz’ page of Notes on Choreography for Duple Minor Improper Contra Dances.