Photo by Jeff Bary
Park Avenue Contra Dance!
Come join us for joyful community contra dancing this summer!
June 21 & 28; July 12 & 26; August 9 & 23.
Skilled callers will teach each dance beforehand then prompt it while you're dancing. And the live music will be super!
What is contra dancing? It's social dancing with everyone dancing the same pattern again and again up and down a long line. You'll choose a different partner for each dance, and eventually you'll have interacted with nearly everyone in the hall. There's lots of swinging and lots of brisk walking and lots of smiles. Check out some of the internet videos out there if you want to get a sense of it. (PS. Contra is NOT country line dancing.)
And there's nothing like dancing to live music. Because the contra dance tradition comes from New England, the music is reels and jigs, usually with a fiddle and a few other instruments. However, depending on the band, the tunes may be played in a wide range of styles -- Appalachian, French-Canadian, jazzy, Irish, electronic, eclectic!
What you need to know:
Newcomers are welcome, and no partner is needed (but do bring your friends!).
Wear cool loose clothing. The hall is air-conditioned.
Please bring your own water bottle, also wear flat shoes, with clean, non-slippery, non-grippy soles.
Parking is on the street. The venue is a short walk from the Swarthmore train station.
Mask & vaccination alert!: Contra dancing is aerobic and everyone mixes around, therefore strict covid protocols are in effect. Proof of vaccination/booster shots are required at the door. N95 or K95 masks required whenever you are in the main dance hall. Please step outside if you want a break, or to eat or drink. Thank you! We want to keep people as safe as we can.
Experienced dancers & first timers all -- we hope you'll come out to enjoy this new venture.
$10 admission fee.
Hosted by Jennifer Beer
Caller: Rick Mohr
Musicians: Box & String and friends