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Embracing Queer Identity Through Line Dancing

As Luke Bryan’s “Country Girl (Shake It for Me)” fills the air, a palpable energy washes over the crowd. Conversations pause, drinks are set aside, and friends hastily make their way to the dance floor, ready to showcase their rehearsed moves. In this vibrant scene, the atmosphere is electric with anticipation.

The crowd, primarily made up of queer attendees dressed in stylish Western attire, creates an inclusive space despite the packed floor. With experts demonstrating exciting dance techniques on a nearby stage, I feel a mix of excitement and nervousness—dancing has never come naturally to me. Yet, as I focus on the rhythms and the intricate choreography, any blunders fade into the background; everyone is here to enjoy the moment, and there is comfort in this collective experience. The sync of our steps—the kicks, claps, and turns—connects us all.

My journey into line dancing began five months earlier when a friend, captivated by the community at Stud Country, invited us to join. This weekly queer country-western dancing event, arising in 2021 and spreading across cities like New York and Los Angeles, intrigued my partner immediately due to her family ties to Montana and her cowboy boots collection. I, however, was unsure—my city-girl biases against country music made me approach the idea with reluctance, picturing myself on the sidelines.

“The image often associated with country music tends to be laden with stereotypes linked to politics and bigotry,” my friend remarked. Yet, it didn’t take long for me to find a genuine admiration for the culture.

Upon arriving at the expansive venue at Lincoln Center, the sense of community enveloped me. I quickly found myself in a two-stepping session where I partnered with diverse attendees, each eager to learn and share. The atmosphere was reminiscent of a friendly speed-dating scenario, where everyone had the freedom to choose their role—leading or following. What stood out was the kindness and support from all participants, making the dance floor a safe haven.

Queer line dancing boasts a rich history, spanning over five decades, and is experiencing a renaissance, notably through social media platforms like TikTok. As discussed in a 2024 docu-short on the phenomenon, its resurgence highlights a community eager for camaraderie and celebration.

At Stud Country, each event combines dance lessons with a lively party atmosphere, featuring a blend of country tunes and pop classics—think Britney Spears meets line dancing choreography. Many regular participants turn to an extensive Google Drive of instructional videos to hone their skills, resulting in impressive synchronized performances.

Fast forward to today, my perspective on country music has shifted. I now actively engage in discussions about upcoming dance events in a dedicated group chat aptly named “Line Dancing Incorporated,” and we’ve even secured studio rental space for practice sessions.

Rivkah Reyes, 32, who also initially hesitated to immerse herself in this world, shares a similar story. “My exposure to country music was limited, mostly to a few iconic artists,” she explains. “The typical associations made with the genre didn’t resonate positively, especially given the prevailing stereotypes.” However, as she engaged with the community, she found herself captivated by the choreography, spirit, and friendships. Now, she proudly teaches line dancing at a Brooklyn series called Buck Wild.

“I grew up experiencing the cowboy culture to an extent through family trips to Wyoming, but often felt out of place due to my mixed racial background,” Reyes recounts. The atmosphere of queer line dancing stands in stark contrast to those experiences, creating a safe space where everyone is welcomed just as they are.

Reyes recalls a memorable night at a Stud Country event where familiar faces from reality television were mingling and dancing, a strong representation of the vibrant queer community. “It was a beautiful moment—everyone was there for the joy of dance and acceptance,” she notes.

Her partner, Jess Davis, 29, also found herself drawn into the world of line dancing, captivated by Reyes’ abilities on the dance floor. They now co-host events like Buck & Grind, blending line dance with beloved ’80s and ’90s R&B music, celebrating the rich cross-cultural connections ingrained in dance.

Similar love stories have emerged within the community. Jodi, 32, met her partner, Leanne, at a Stud Country gathering, where a conversation sparked over a shared interest in dance. “It was an unconventional yet charming way to connect,” Jodi shares. Their relationship has blossomed into a shared passion for dancing that transcends specific venues and times, embodying a fun, carefree spirit.

Jodi also expressed appreciation for the inclusive atmosphere, highlighting how refreshing it was to witness a gathering where drinking was not a central focus. “It felt liberating to see so many people just enjoying each other’s company while celebrating their identities through dance,” she reflects.

The sense of belonging afforded by this community goes beyond just dance. For Jolie, 25, it opened the door to lasting friendships that have solidified over shared experiences, creating a close-knit group that meets regularly outside of line dancing events.

Many participants voiced the critical importance of cultivating queer community and joy, particularly during times when softening of LGBTQ+ rights is under scrutiny. “We’re creating something significant during a turbulent time,” Reyes remarks. “It’s vital to carve our space in this deeply American tradition and make it reflective of our identities.”

In my own experience, moving in rhythm with talented, magnetic individuals culminates in euphoric moments. It reaffirms what Davis notably pointed out: “You can’t step into queer line dancing without leaving a little bit gayer.”

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