Join us for an evening of contra dancing at American Legion Post #43, 143 Church Street in Belfast. The festivities begin at 6:30 pm with a Community Dance called by Chrissy Fowler and Lisa Newcomb, 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 Belfast’s own Chrissy Fowler. A founder and leading light of the Belfast Flying Shoes dance series, Chrissy called her first dance in 1999. Since then, she has cheerfully guided people through the steps of contra dances at festivals, schools, dance series, and special events throughout New England. She is especially gifted at introducing the joys of traditional dance to the uninitiated in educational, community, and professional settings. Chrissy is committed to building community and sees traditional dancing as a vital means to connect people of all ages and levels of experience.
Sharing the Flying Shoes stage with Chrissy will be:
Emily, Benjamin & Owen
Emily Troll, Benjamin Foss, and Owen Marshall promise Flying Shoes dancers “a high energy night with [Maine] Fiddle Camp drive!” That means a mix of old time, Quebecois, and Irish tunes delivered with the virtuosity and verve these three Maine musicians are known for. Emily has most recently set the Legion hall rocking with her trio Anadama. Benjamin Foss showcases his incredible musicianship and versatility in any number of local groups and gatherings, including our own All Comers Band (he’s also a talented luthier). A youthful elder statesman of the New England traditional music scene, Owen Marshall is a regular with the bands Riptide and the Press Gang, along with many others, and a pillar of the Maine Fiddle Camp community.
- Emily Troll—fiddle & accordion
- Benjamin Foss—fiddle, mandolin & banjo
- Owen Marshall—guitar
Sound provided by Eric Weest Johnson
Admission to the Community Dance is $2 for adults and $1 for children. Admission to the Contra Dance is $10 for adults, $8 for ages 13 to 20 and adult All Comers, and $5 for children. Bring along a window fan and get $1 off. For more information, email us at [email protected], or find us on Facebook.