Press Release: Dancer & Caller Transition Guide for (New) Mainstream Program

Implementation Date: September 1, 2026

CALLERLAB’s updated (New) Mainstream and (New) Plus program lists take effect September 1, 2026. Starting that date, new teaching should begin from the new lists. A transition period will follow, allowing callers and dancers time to adjust. Use caller judgment to keep your dancers successful and confident on the floor.


What Happens on September 1, 2026?

  • The new program lists are officially in effect.
  • Callers should begin teaching and calling from the updated lists.
  • Dancers may need to learn a few new calls or adjust to program changes.
  • CALLERLAB will provide videos, teaching materials, and guidance on the TIPPP page.

Dancer Transitions

Previous ProgramLearn These Calls
SSD Dancers¼ Tag the Line
¾ Tag the Line
Spin the Top
Mainstream DancersSingle Circle to a Wave
Plus DancersTBD

Caller Transitions

Previous ProgramAddsDrops
SSD¼ Tag the Line
¾ Tag the Line
Spin the Top
Circle to a Line
MainstreamSingle Circle to a WaveAllemande Thars, Shoot the Star, Slip the Clutch, Circle to a Line, Cloverleaf, Dixie Style to a Wave, Do Paso, Eight Chain Thru, Pass to the Center, Spin Chain Thru, Turn Thru, Walk and Dodge, Walk Around / See Saw
PlusTBDTBD

Caller Guidance

If your group previously danced only SSD:

  • Teach/workshop ¼ Tag the Line, ¾ Tag the Line, Spin the Top.
  • Do not call Circle to a Line.

If your group previously danced only Mainstream:

  • Include Single Circle to a Wave.
  • Do not use calls moved to Plus.: Allemande Thars, Shoot the Star, Slip the Clutch, Circle to a Line, Cloverleaf, Dixie Style to a Wave, Do Paso, Eight Chain Thru, Pass to the Center, Spin Chain Thru, Turn Thru, Walk and Dodge, Walk Around / See Saw.

If your group previously danced Plus:

  • Existing dancers know calls added from Basic & Mainstream.
  • Watch for updates once the new Plus list is finalized.

Guidance for Running Dances in the Interim and during the Transition

  • Identify dances clearly (SSD, Mainstream, (New) Mainstream, Plus, or (New) Plus).
  • Communicate changes openly — help dancers understand what’s new.
  • Allow time for teaches or workshops for the newly added calls to each program. 
  • Keep the tone encouraging and educational.

Key Points to Remember

  • Effective Date: September 1, 2026
  • Teaching & Calling: Begin teaching using the new lists as of the effective date. Begin using the new lists at dances but workshop calls added to the list before using. 
  • Transition Period: While traveling or visiting other groups, gauge the floor to ensure dancers are comfortable with the calls added to each program before including them in your regular programming.
  • Support: Additional resources, videos, and tips will be available through CALLERLAB and TIPPP.

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We thank you for the coverage you have given us in the past and for your continued support in the future.