Square Dance with CallerPaul

After setting up my sound equipment (approximately 20-30 minutes prior to the start of the event), I will begin instructing/calling basic square dancing movements with your group. I progress in movements as the event goes on always reteaching the previous movements to any new joiners as we go (although that teach gets faster as the event progresses). Dance sets are generally 15-20 minutes in length followed by a short 5 min. break in which music is played. This will continue for the duration of the event (generally 1.5 -2 hours works best in my experience). I can break up the event with a couple of very simple line dances as well as an old time square dance (aka the Virginia Reel) if you'd like but that is not my specialty. Dancing works best for ages 12+ although I have worked with younger ages as long as they are dancing with an adult partner and are able to constantly know their right and left without being shown repeatedly.

Professional Square Dance Caller/Instructor as well as a retired middle school teacher so I understand how to teach those who don't dance to have fun while learning to do so!

I began calling square dances at the end of my senior year of high school (after practically being dragged into just square dancing as a high school freshman by my parents) and continue to love doing it. I am a VERY upbeat and lively caller that calls MODERN Western style Square Dances (meaning you can go anywhere else in the world and do the same maneuovers, in the english language no less).

I utilize MODERN upbeat music like you would hear on the radio. My musical repitoire spans from the 1950's right up to current day (although my 70's collection seems to be extensively large). My calling/instruction is done with the music constantly playing for a lively event. I do not use the "old time" routines typically associated with square dance but take a much more modern approach.

Currently, I live in the Grand Blanc/Flint, MI area and generally travel up to an hour away for most events if you're planning. (This isn't saying I won't go farther but that is my main travel distance.). After doing this type of entertaining for so long, I have found the "sweet spot" for event planning is 1.5 to 2 hours for the actually dancing part of an event. At this point, no one is overwhelmed, everyone is still having a GREAT time and we finish with a LOT of enthusiasm. Please consider this in your planning as well.

I. I provide all of my own audio equipment (speakers, amplifier, microphone, music, etc.) and need the following for any event:
a. Parking space close to the performance area (so I can easily bring in my equipment to set up approx. 30 min. prior to the start)
b. an electrical outlet or proper gauge extension cord within ten(10) feet of my set up area
c. COLD drinking water available (if this is not available please inform me know ahead of time so I arrive prepared)
d. a table/podium/platform to setup on (think card table size or larger)
e. SHELTER from the elements (INCLUDING full sun) will be required for both myself and my equipment.
f. If your event is indoors, and you have the capability of doing so, PLEASE consider lowering the thermostat, turning on the AC, supplying fans, etc. as participants will get quite warm while dancing.

II. VERY IMPORTANT FOR YOUR PLANNING PURPOSES: EACH group (what I call a square) for Modern Western Square Dancing consists of eight(8) people/dancers no more no less. This group/square can be any combination of people BUT MUST BE EXACTLY 8 PEOPLE in order to participate in Modern Western Square Dancing.

III. For space planning purposes, EACH group/square will also require an area of approximately 10' × 10' (12' x 12' is even better) to dance in.

IV. IF YOUR EVENT IS OUTDOORS, dancing needs to be on a FLAT surface preferably concrete/ashpault rather than grass. Although not a deal breaker, the ground needs to be fairly smooth so that participants aren't injured or having trip hazards while dancing.

V. I hold both ASCAP and BMI music licensure giving me the rights to play recorded music as secured through CALLERLAB (an international organization of square dance callers) and can provide it if required/needed.

VI. I am not a DJ and do not take musical requests. Some of your music MAY be able to be played through my sound system but ONLY if this is prearranged in advance (due to required adapters, cords, etc.).

VII. The event organizer is responsible for any/all required venue permissions or permits.

VIII. Neither party shall be liable for cancellations caused by severe weather, power outages, emergencies, or other circumstances beyond reasonable control.