Repeating pattern - Strolling
- A Stroll is danced (strolled) by individuals who follow a syncronised pattern of steps and therefore move as a group. This repeating pattern is what makes Strolling different to Line Dancing, which has choreographed routines.
Although some other strolls can be seen at vintage events, the Rock n Roll Stroll is the most popular and is seen at all events. It's done to slower music predominantly by women, and the DJ will usually play a few strolling songs one after another to allow the dancers to stay in position between the songs. You can join in at any time.
At events with less emphasis on the scene and culture there are a variety of strolls, sometimes particular to the local area. For example you may see the Charleston Stroll being danced to faster music, as well as variations which allow couples to do a paired stroll together - either to the Rock n Roll and Rockabilly Stroll or to a song called the Rock n Roll Waltz. -
Some more experienced dancers add their own footwork styling to make strolls look different, but in the main they still follow the same patterns as everyone else so the group remains synchronised.
Note: Unless you can stroll and understand its movement pattern, it's better not to walk across a dancefloor while strolling is taking place - especially if you're carrying a drink :0-
Rock n Roll and Rockabilly dancing also includes Bopping, where everyone dances individually to certain songs and Jiving, which is for couples.