Sue Gola & Chimney Swift
A long-time contra dancer, Sue Gola was drawn into calling contras in 2014. Since then, she has called at dances both large and small throughout the Northeast. Sue gives instructions concisely and clearly and has a friendly way about her that makes dancers feel welcome.
Hailing from New England, Chimney Swift hatched out of a fortuitous Youth Dance Weekend rideshare in 2015 when Cecile Leroy, a classically trained cellist, and Avalon, a lapsed pianist and self-taught accordionist, ended up in a car for three hours together. They started jamming regularly and decided to take their show on the road. With the addition of Daniel Raine, a prog-rock and fingerstyle guitarist who had recently fallen in love with the hearty sound of the cittern, and Yaron Shragai, a versatile international music and dance leader with a well-spent youth in industrial and techno, the band has developed an exciting and unique sound as one of the few groups on the dance circuit without a fiddler.
Chimney Swift draws inspiration from Anglo-American songs and dance tunes, multiple Celtic traditions, a smattering of international styles, and whatever off the wall idea someone mentioned as a joke in practice the previous week. Chimney Swift features Avalon Zoë Madonna on accordion and vocals, Daniel Raine on cittern, ukulele, guitar, and vocals, Cecile Leroy on cello, jaw harp, and vocals, and Yaron Shragai on whistles, percussion, and vocals.
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!Â
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.