How to Perform a Do-Si-Do in Square Dancing

## Understanding the Do-Si-Do The Do-Si-Do (also spelled dosado or dos-à-dos) is a fundamental square dancing move where two dancers pass each other right shoulder to right shoulder, then left shoulder to left shoulder, while moving in a circular motion. This non-touching move is performed within a square formation of four couples. ## Basic Position and Setup Before beginning the Do-Si-Do: - Face your partner or designated dancer - Stand approximately arm's length apart - Maintain good posture with shoulders back - Keep arms relaxed at sides ## Step-by-Step Instructions 1. **Face Your Partner** - Begin in your starting position, maintaining eye contact - Stand with feet together in a comfortable stance 2. **Approach and Pass** - Move forward, passing right shoulders - Take a step forward with your left foot (leader) or right foot (follower) 3. **Circle Around** - Slide sideways to your right, moving back-to-back - Continue moving in a circular path around your partner - Keep your body facing forward throughout the movement 4. **Complete the Move** - Pass left shoulders while moving backward - Return to your original position, facing your partner ## Important Tips ### Timing and Movement - A standard do-si-do takes 8 beats of music to complete - Most square dance music follows a 4/4 time signature at 120-128 beats per minute - Keep your shoulders parallel to their original starting position ### Common Mistakes to Avoid - **Don't turn around**: Maintain forward body orientation - **Don't rush**: Complete the full 8-count movement - **Don't touch**: This is a no-hands movement - **Don't cut corners**: Follow the full circular path - **Avoid colliding** with your partner ## Practice Tips > "Perfect practice makes perfect performance." - Square Dance Caller's Association To improve your do-si-do: 1. Practice with a chair first 2. Use a mirror to check body alignment 3. Count out loud while moving 4. Start slowly and gradually increase speed 5. Practice with different partners ## Integration with Other Moves The do-si-do often connects with these common square dance moves: - Allemande Left - Right and Left Grand - Promenade - Circle Left/Right ## Additional Resources For more information about square dancing and the Do-Si-Do, explore: - [Square Dance History Project](https://squaredancehistory.org/) - [American Callers Association](https://americancallers.wordpress.com/) - [Square Dance Foundation](https://www.squaredancefoundation.org) - [United Square Dancers of America](https://www.usda.org/) - [International Association of Square Dance Callers](https://callerlab.org/) Remember that square dancing is meant to be enjoyable, so focus on smooth movement, good timing, and having fun with your fellow dancers.

How to Perform a Do-Si-Do in Square Dancing

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