Join us for contra dancing at American Legion Post #43, 143 Church Street in Belfast! The evening begins at 6:30 pm with a Community Dance called by Chrissy Fowler and with music by the All-Comers Band. All musicians are welcome to sit in. Fun and simple dances will be taught, giving beginners the opportunity to learn new skills and offering experienced dancers a chance to brush up on their steps. The Contra Dance begins at 8:00 pm.
This month’s caller is David Millstone. David started contra dancing with Dudley Laufman in the early 1970s and for 40 years has called dances throughout the US, Canada, and Europe. His monthly dance in Norwich, Vermont, with the band Northern Spy, had one of the longest runs of any dance series in New England: 1980–2015. With a repertoire ranging from traditional New England chestnuts to high-energy recent compositions, David calls contras, squares, and interesting dances in odd formations. He is known for his clear and supportive teaching style, the breadth of his repertoire, his sense of humor, and his ability to pick dances that offer the right level of challenge for all audiences. Sharing the Flying Shoes stage with David will be …
New Brew
New Brew blends a rich texture of musical traditions from Europe, New England, Quebec, and Cape Breton with more modern styles. Fiddler Eileen (Nicholson) Kalfass’s classical technique and rich tone complement her varied approach to violin and fiddle. She also tours with Seaglass and Continental Drift. Jane Knoeck, on piano and accordion, has played for contra dance festivals and camps throughout the US and abroad with the Groovemongers, Montage, and other bands. Tom Santarsiero’s eclectic approach to guitar, mandolin, banjo, and foot percussion anchors the music in a contagious rhythm, while giving both his fellow musicians and dancers room for expression.
Eileen (Nicholson) Kalfass—fiddle
Jane Knoeck—piano and accordion
Tom Santarsiero—guitar, mandolin, banjo, and foot percussion
Sound by Glen Loper