Alyssa [Lyss] Adkins + Gus & Pepin
![Photo of Alyssa [Lyss] Adkins](https://folkproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Tern-Alyssa-Adkins-072025-sq1200.jpg "Alyssa [Lyss] Adkins")
When you ask a Muppet to masquerade as a human and call a contra dance, you get Alyssa [Lyss] Adkins. Dancers consistently describe their teaching and calling as clear, joyful, and energetic. An experienced contra dancer, folk waltz and fusion dance teacher, she stays precise and concise in her communication so everyone can more fully enjoy the dance, the music, and each other.
Described as a “passionate and masterful player who values tradition,” Gus La Casse is a classically trained violinist exploring the future of fiddle music. He has appeared on the Canadian international television broadcast from the Congrès Mondial Acadien, traveled to Ireland as part of the Young Tradition Vermont touring group, and was a featured performer at the American Folk Festival in Bangor.
Pepin Mittelhauser is a tenor guitar player and vocalist, who performs as a duo with Gus at contradances around Maine. He is also a lead performer and vocalist with the Maine Gilbert & Sullivan Society.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- Newcomers are welcome to come at 7pm for an introductory lesson on the basics of contra dancing. No partner is necessary. All dances are taught with a “walk-through” by the caller.
- Masks and vaccines are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- We have open windows on three sides and air-conditioning when needed.
- Our dance is two blocks from the Chatham station on the Morris/Essex line out of Penn Station, NYC.
- We welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
- Please bring your own water bottle. Water bottles may be filled at the orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Hourly Schedule
Dance Schedule
- 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM
- Beginner's Workshop
- Learn the basics or help the newcomers.
- 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
- Dance
- The main event.