The Figures

The Choreography of Country Dances

The English Country Dances of the 18th century unfold their full splendor in the sweeping lines of the longways. To help you orient yourself on the dance floor, we have structured the essential choreographies according to the number of interacting dancers.

Let our directory inspire you. With a click on the respective categories, you will be taken directly to our central knowledge base, where in-depth descriptions and historical treatises await you.

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Solo Figures

The individual path in the longway

Actions of the single dancer
(e.g., Cast off, Foot to, Set to & Set)


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Couple Figures

The dialogue with the partner

Harmonious interactions for two
(e.g., Turn Partner, Two-hand turn & Cross over)


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Two-Couple Figures

Complex patterns for four dancers

The heart of many Country Dances
(e.g., Right and Left hands, Chain, Round by four & Hands across)


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Three-Couple Figures

Expansive and large choreographies

Dynamic patterns for six dancers
(e.g., Hey for three, Round by six, Hey on the other side & large Heys)