Contra Dance is an American folk tradition similar to Square Dance, only we dance in long lines to live music (Irish Jigs and Reels, Klezmer, Old-Time, Bluegrass or something else!)
Come alone, with a partner, or with friends. No dancing experience is necessary. It’s easy to learn - optional beginners intro at 5:40. There is a Caller who teaches each dance and prompts the moves throughout the dance using gender neutral terms (Larks & Ravens). Dance either role. After each dance, thank your partner and dance with someone new :) Experienced dancers will often ask new folks to dance, to help them learn the ropes.
Bring comfortable, non-marking shoes to protect your feet and our floors – a separate pair of dance shoes works best., a water bottle and perhaps something to share at the break/snack.
You’ll be more comfortable in loose-fitting light-weight clothing,
Alexandra Deis-Lauby (from New York) will call to tunes by Countercurrent (from Washington State), with Brian Lindsay (fiddle, feet, vocals) and Alex Sturbaum (guitar, accordion, vocals).
A video from our 2019 Open Band dance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJR_GRWZ4Bk&t=0s&list=PLoXJQWqwERpqkc1XQQuZu4pG5nO4qqBCy&index=6
http://santacruzdance.org/wp/events/second-sunday-contra-dance-april-2019