The Down East FolkArts Society
will not be sponsoring contra dances during the 2011 -
For people who wonder what contra dancing is like:
Click here to open a YouTube video of a contra dance mostly of students in Burlington, Vermont:
Click here to open a YouTube video of a contra dance in Carborro, NC, just outside of Chapel Hill, which shows older people and younger people dancing together like age is of no consequence (and of course, it isn't!):
What is contra dancing, anyway?
The contra dance was popular in the English countryside in the 17th century and found its way to France. Because the dances were done in lines with the partners facing each other (or “contra” in French), the name stayed as the dance came across the Atlantic. Today’s contra dancing continues with some of the historic movements, but with distinctly modern flourishes as well. The live music may have a folk background, gypsy or celtic overtones, or the foot-stomping appeal of an Appalachian jig.
Bringing a partner is not necessary, as it is customary to change partners after each dance. A caller will walk dancers through the steps before beginning, then the fun begins as groups of people begin to weave, tap, and bob in a pattern centuries old yet still entertaining and new! Over the course of the dance, interaction is with not only your partner, but with all others in the set, so contra dancing can be considered a group activity. More experienced dancers are usually very helpful to new dancers, and
The contra dance was popular in the English countryside in the 17th century and found its way to France. Because the dances were done in lines with the partners facing each other (or “contra” in French), the name stayed as the dance came across the Atlantic. Today’s contra dancing continues with some of the historic movements, but with distinctly modern flourishes as well. The live music may have a folk background, gypsy or celtic overtones, or the foot-
though mistakes will be made, “it’s all good” is the attitude that prevails. Contra dancing can adapt to many levels of skill - it is said that if you can walk, you can contra dance! Come to a dance with comfortable shoes and a smile, and be ready to have a good time!
Regional Contra Dances
New Bern
Simon Spalding
Greenville
Folk Arts Society of Greenville
Wilmington
Cape Fear Dancers
www.wilmingtoncontradance.info
Greensboro and Winston-
Fiddle & Bow Country Dancers