Paul Morris & Flying Circus
And now for something completely different, it’s Swingin’ Tern’s Flying Circus! Morris of the Ministry of Silly Walks will lead us across the bridge of death asking, “what is your favorite contra”? With the band performing as the Knights of the Round Table, we’ll dance whene’er we’re able. Your parrot may have ceased to be, but the larks and robins will dance with the airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow. As you search for the meaning of life, remember when you’re feeling small and insecure, always look on the bright side of life. What will be served at the break? Spam, spam, spam, spam. And maybe a nice shrubbery.
Paul Morris has been contra dancing for over two decades, from his hometown of Berea, Kentucky to New York City where he now hangs his hat. Paul has become a regular caller on the circuit of dances in the area. Paul has found his experience as a teacher helps him effectively teach dances to newcomers and experienced dancers alike.
The three-ring Flying Circus features Anna Bosnick, a superb fiddler with deep roots in Irish and Québécois music: Christie Riehl, a sublime cellist with deep roots in Bach and folk music; and Doug Healy, a hard-working guitarist that keeps the tempo going steady, with deep roots in the Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Van Morrison.
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.
- We have adjusted our adult admission from $15 to a sliding scale of $15 to $20+. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking our amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door.
- Masks and vaccines are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- Our hall is air-conditioned along with open windows on three sides 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 kitchen sink.
- 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.