The Australian Traditional and Bush Dance Society of South Australia is a bit of a mouthful – that’s why we shorten it to ATBDS – but what does it mean?
The ATBDS’s name indicates that it’s based in South Australia, does traditional dances, and is not limited to one particular style, such as Ballroom, Swing, Irish or Latin.
Founded in the Adelaide suburb of Prospect in 1986, the ATBDS has evolved into a group where you can enjoy a wide range of dance traditions, including English Country Dance, American Contra Dance (what parts of the USA did to English Country Dance), Scottish Country Dance and Australian Colonial (the ‘Ballroom’ dances of the 1800s). Many of the dances are hard to find on any other dance programs in the State outside of the folk scene.
‘Bush dances’ arose in Australia in the 1950s as part of an international revival of interest in folk music. Bush Music Clubs were formed in several States and when members played for dances those dances became known as Bush Dances, even though many of the dances in their repertoire had not been danced in the Australian bush. See here for a fuller explanation of the above types.
A small selection of some of the dances we do can be viewed here. In addition, the international popularity of traditional dance is such that new dances in traditional styles are being composed all the time.
The ATBDS Tuesday night classes use our extensive library of recorded music that is a treat to dance to. The classes are supplemented by a range of other evening and afternoon dances with live music, currently held at Prospect, Mitcham and Marden – see Posts at top right.
All Australian States, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory have folk festivals and folk organisations, so keen travellers are invited to explore the Useful Links menu of this website under the South Australian Events and Other Australian Resources headings for more opportunities to dance.
