If you’re dancing Two Step in Orlando, there’s one move you’ll run into over and over again – the Lariat. In this friendly how-to, Anthony and Rose from Country Dance Orlando walk you through how to do it from start to finish. Whether you’re brand new or brushing up your skills, this step is one of those go-to patterns that can lead to lots of fun variations later.
They start off with a quick demo. From a patty cake or high-five hold, the leader walks the follower forward while she spins through a stylish two-and-one-eighth rotation. Sounds tricky, but don’t worry – they break it down in a way that’s easy to follow, even if you’re still learning your left foot from your right.
Rose explains how the spin happens in three small pivots, followed by a spiral. If the spiral feels too fancy, they show a simpler version too, so beginners in Orlando can keep dancing without missing a beat. What makes the original version stand out, though, is how clean and sharp it looks – kind of like stretching a rubber band and letting it go.
Anthony walks through how the leader moves forward beside the follower, catching her hand in what they call the “guard the girls” position – which just means ladies should keep that hand up and ready for the lead to grab it. It’s all about making the next step smooth and controlled. Without that, things can get a little clunky.
As the pattern continues, they get into the stretch – that rubber band moment. The dancers pause for just a second, creating a little tension before releasing into the next move. Rose reminds followers not to lean back or lose their balance. Instead, use your center, stay vertical, and engage your core so you’re ready to spring forward with control.
From there, they go into a unique transition where the follower turns between two slow steps. The lead comes from the lower hand – not the usual top-hand turn – and that’s what gives this move its cool, unexpected twist. Anthony shows how the timing of the lead matters, especially during that little window between the first and second slow steps.
They finish in what they call a forward bowtie position – both hands over her head and down to her belt. From here, it’s just one more move: a stylish free spin that sends the follower out cleanly to finish the combo.
Anthony and Rose demonstrate the whole pattern again, reminding leaders to stay still during the final spin so the follower can pass in front without running into a “creeper move” (aka, accidentally blocking the way).
The best part? Once you’ve got this move down, it opens up tons of possibilities. You’ll see it in all kinds of combos out on the Orlando dance floor, whether you’re dancing at Cowboys, a local bar, or a social night with Country Dance Orlando.
If you’re in Orlando and want to learn more in person, Anthony and Rose are teaching classes all the time. Check the schedule and come try it out for yourself – nothing beats learning it live!