Contra Dance is an easy and fun way to meet new people, get some exercise, and hear some great music. Contra Dance is the oldest form of American Folk Dance and is still going strong today (see wikipedia for more details). Best of all, its is easy to pick up. All of the dances are taught on the fly, so there is no learning necessary--you'll be dancing like a pro in no time!
Contra Dances start at 8:00 pm. There is always a lesson at 7:30 for those who haven't danced before or for those just wanting a refresher. Oh, and every Contra Dance features live music. So come join us--we're looking to see you at the next dance.
University of Chicago Contra Dances are now run by the UofC Folk Arts Community. Check out their website.
Locations:
Ida Noyes Hall
Ida Noyes Hall (Map)
Shoreland Hall
Shoreland Hall (Map)
New England Fiddle wizard Frank Ferrel opens our 2008-2009 season in style. Jo Mortland's calling promises great dances, nicely delivered. Mr. Ferrel, accompanied by Jonathan Whitall on piano, promises driving Downeast, Irish, and Cape Breton tunes. "We'll have 'em dancing out the door," says he.
The Midwest's grooviest dance band, U4 - Tom Turino on banjo, Matt Turino on fiddle, Michael Shapiro on guitar, Michael Vallient on bass - play in Chicago for the first time since Matt returned from North Carolina with a few new tricks up his sleeve. One of our favorite callers, Barry Dupen, makes his annual visit from Goshen, Ind. Barry does everything in style, even dancing and calling simultaneously.
The first graduation ceremony for Jo Mortland's School of Dance Calling presents two of your favorite dancers on stage with cards and a mic. Meanwhile, The Trouser Weasels, known for rockin' parties and sessions, raise the temperature with twin fiddling in the bostonacousticirishcontramelange style. Heather Cole-Mullen and Edward Wallace on fiddle and Jonathan Whitall on piano, bring attitude to the bandstand.
