Wichita, Kansas, may be known for its rich aviation history, but it’s also a vibrant hub for dance enthusiasts! Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking to put on your dancing shoes for the first time, Wichita offers a variety of dance clubs to explore. From the energetic steps of square dancing to the lively rhythms of contra and clogging, there’s a dance style for everyone in this dynamic city. Let’s explore some of the fantastic dance club options Wichita and the surrounding area has to offer.
Square Dance Clubs in and around Wichita
Square dancing is a fantastic social activity that combines fun, fitness, and community. In the Wichita area, you’ll find several welcoming square dance clubs catering to different skill levels and schedules.
River City Plus (Andover)
Just a short drive from Wichita in Andover, River City Plus offers a welcoming environment for Plus level square dancers. Located at the Andover Community Center, they meet every Monday evening. They alternate between lessons on the 1st and 3rd Mondays and dedicated dance nights on the 2nd and 4th Mondays. This club is perfect for those looking to enhance their Plus level skills and enjoy regular square dancing. Contact Wayne & Thersea Schremmer or Terry & Liz Trimble for more details.
Camping Squares of Kansas (Wichita)
For a unique square dance experience that combines the love of dancing with the great outdoors, check out Camping Squares of Kansas. While their locations vary, they are based in Wichita and offer Mainstream level dancing with a Plus tip. This group is ideal for adventurous dancers who enjoy camping and square dancing in different scenic spots. Be sure to check their calendar for upcoming events and locations. President Frank & Marty Golden can provide more information.
Circle 8 (Park City)
Located in Park City, just north of Wichita, Circle 8 Square Dance Club is a lively group that dances at the Park City Senior Center. They offer a mix of Mainstream and Rounds dancing every 2nd and 4th Sunday. For those looking to expand their skills, they also incorporate Plus tips into their sessions. Circle 8 is known for its friendly atmosphere and is a great place for both Mainstream and Rounds enthusiasts. Contact Co-Presidents Tammy & Bill Gough or Rocky & Robin Trammell for details.
Diamond Plus (Park City)
Also located at the Park City Senior Center, Diamond Plus caters specifically to Plus level dancers. Meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays, this club provides a focused environment to enjoy and refine Plus level square dancing. Tammy & Bill Gough are your contacts for this club, offering a consistent schedule for Plus level enthusiasts.
Village Steppers (Wichita)
Back in Wichita at the Oaklawn Activity Center, Village Steppers provides a well-rounded square dance experience. They dance on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays, featuring Plus level dancing at 7:30 PM followed by Mainstream, Rounds, and Plus tips at 8 PM. Village Steppers offers a diverse program for dancers who enjoy a mix of styles in one evening. Nick & Kathy Anderson are the contacts for this club, offering a welcoming space for dancers of various preferences.
West Side Steppers (Wichita)
West Side Steppers, located at the West Heights UMC Family Center in Wichita, offers a comprehensive dance program on the 1st and 3rd Sunday evenings. From 6 PM to 8:30 PM, enjoy Mainstream, Plus, and Rounds dancing in their spacious facility with a wood floor. This club is perfect for those wanting a longer evening of varied dance styles. Sheldon Lawrence, the club caller, can provide more information about this welcoming group.
Contra and Clogging Clubs in Wichita
Beyond square dancing, Wichita also caters to those interested in other forms of dance like Contra and Clogging, adding even more variety to the local dance scene.
Derby Barn – Contra Club (Wichita)
For a taste of lively folk dance, Derby Barn Contra Club meets at the Oaklawn Activity Center. They host contra dances, often with live bands, typically on the 1st Saturday of the month. Beginners are warmly welcomed with lessons at 6:30 PM before the main Contra dance at 7 PM. Occasionally, they incorporate fun squares into their evenings. This club provides a high-energy and social dance experience. Amanda DeMoss is your contact for this unique Wichita dance offering.
Kansas Kountree Kloggers (Wichita)
If you’re looking for a percussive and energetic dance form, Kansas Kountree Kloggers offers clogging lessons and sessions at Kiwanis Park. Every Monday, they cater to different skill levels, with basic level at 6 PM and intermediate/advanced at 7 PM. Clogging is a fantastic way to improve rhythm and coordination while having fun. Contact Caitlin Smith or instructor Joe Dawley for more information on joining this dynamic group.
Round Dance Opportunities in Wichita
Round dancing, often described as choreographed ballroom dancing, is also available in the Wichita area, sometimes integrated with square dance clubs.
Merry-Go Rounders (Park City)
While primarily a Round dance club, Merry-Go Rounders, located in Park City, offers dedicated sessions at 6100 N. Hydraulic. Every Sunday, they have sessions starting with Beginning Two-Step at 1 PM, followed by Phase 2-4 Dancing/Workshop at 2:30 PM. Round dancing is an elegant and flowing dance form, and Merry-Go Rounders provides opportunities for both learning and progressing in this style. Kevin & Diane Denning are the contacts for this club, offering a structured approach to round dance education and enjoyment.
Conclusion
Wichita, KS, and its surrounding areas offer a surprisingly diverse and welcoming dance scene. Whether you’re drawn to the community spirit of square dancing, the energetic fun of contra, the rhythmic precision of clogging, or the graceful movements of round dancing, there’s a dance club in Wichita to suit your interests and skill level. Explore these fantastic options, put on your dancing shoes, and join the fun on the dance floor!
