GOLD DUST DANCERSOakhurst, CaliforniaSee what’s nextWho we are
The Gold Dust Dancers are a nonprofit square and line dancing club based in Oakhurst, California. Since 2006, we have grown through friendly people, fun social activities, and a beginner class strongly supported by our members.
Frequently asked questions
Whether you are completely new or returning after many years, these answers will help you know what to expect.
Square dancing is a form of American folk dance. Four couples dance together as a group, moving through formations called out by a caller.
What makes it especially social is that you dance with several people in a square—not only one partner or an entire room. You do not need to memorize songs; you learn and respond to the calls.
Like square dancing, line dancing is choreographed and led by an instructor, sometimes called a cuer. It focuses mainly on footwork and a sequence of steps performed individually in lines or rows.
The instructor may call out the steps while dancers are learning. There are many levels of difficulty, and some line dances may also involve a partner.
A partner is needed once a square forms, but you do not have to bring one with you. Single dancers are welcome, and there are usually enough dancers or a rotation system so everyone can participate.
Gold Dust class members are assured a dance partner through the generous support of experienced club members. Some experienced dancers also learn both positions so they can dance either role.
Yes. Square dancing is much more fun when you choose to participate in a friendly social setting. Modern dancing also offers much more depth and variety than the basic calls commonly taught in school.
The first three classes are free. After that, the class is $8 at the door each week for a 1-hour session, with no prepayment or long-term commitment.
Once you have learned the calls, square dances cost $8 for 2 hours of dancing, exercise, and snacks.
Yes. Square and line dancing provide both physical and mental exercise. An evening of dancing can equal several miles of walking, while listening and responding to calls keeps your mind active.
Dancers who want a more energetic workout can add extra flourish and movement to their dance styling.
Absolutely. We have friends in other clubs throughout the San Joaquin Valley and beyond. We are happy to help you find a club and class that fit your location and needs.
Fiction vs. fact
If you can tell left from right and listen to the caller, you can learn to square dance. The goal is to move through patterns with the other dancers; exactly how your feet get you there matters much less. Line dancing focuses more on coordinated footwork, and it is perfectly fine to enjoy one style more than the other.
Modern square dancing works with any music that has a clear beat. You may hear rock, American standards, pop, classical crossover, and only now and then country or bluegrass.
Square dancing is for every generation. At the 2009 National Square Dance Convention in Long Beach, dancers ranged from five to ninety-three years old. Gold Dust Dancers have included people from their 30s through their 70s. Younger dancers bring enthusiasm and energy, while experienced dancers make the activity welcoming and easy to learn.
Ready to try it?
Visit us on a Wednesday evening at the Oakhurst Community Center! Line dance sessions are open to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. Square dance sessions are open to Mainstream and Plus dance levels. Ongoing instruction is included with every session.