Evening contradance
Tuesday, August 31st, 2010, 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Wednesday, September 1st, 2010, 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Thursday, September 2nd, 2010, 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Friday, September 3rd, 2010, 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Saturday, September 4th, 2010, 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Sunday, September 5th, 2010, 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Description:
Contradance every night until dancers or musicians quit (starts after sunset or after burns Sat Sun). Live music - didj, electric fiddle; looped/ trad'nal/ celtic/ fusion/ techno. Fast paced but easy to learn. We will cycle through different levels - you won't have to wait long for beginner level w/ lessons. (And there will be a neighboring dance area for those who prefer to freestyle.) A caller instructs but there is room for dancers to improvise. 1/2 the moves w/ your partner, 1/2 w/ everyone else. No need to bring a partner (dancers swap partners after every dance). Zen is flow, synchrony, bonding (not footwork, not competition). If you are smiling, you are doing it right.
Because couples flow through one another in long lines and end up interacting with everyone, it has a very tribal feel–w/ bonding through synchronous stomping, clapping and hooting. It is very playful (variations and flourishes improvised ad lib) and flirtatious. Dancers typically include all ages from children to the elderly, and include people with a surprising range of disabilities. Dancers and callers frequently swap gender roles, and playfully mock gender conventions.
The caller gives instructions for each dance's particular repeating cycle of ~10 moves. The basic moves are very easy to learn, but lessons are necessary for advanced moves, and so that new dancers don't become disoriented, and can more quickly get to the point of enjoying the flow. We will use a LCD projector and screen to get dancers up to speed as quickly as possible. While the caller explains individual moves and line movement verbally, the screen will show them diagrammatically from above, and w/ POV video of real dancers from the side.
Slippery shoes are helpful. A less than full stomach will make it easier for some to avoid dizziness. Dancers expect to adjust their behavior to suit each person they meet in the line (e.g. just ask for minimal spinning or whatever else makes you comfortable).