Until further notice, all participants must provide proof of vaccination at the door. This can be done by showing us a vaccination card indicating that you are at least two weeks beyond either a single Johnson & Johnson shot, or the second of two Moderna or Pfizer shots. A complete and unredacted photo or photocopy of the front of that vaccination card is also acceptable. We will not retain copies of your medical information, only ask to see them as a condition of entry. Masks are optional.

Swingin' Tern Dances

Location: St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 200 Main Street, Chatham, NJ a smoke and alcohol-free environment. See photos and video below. DIRECTIONS

Time: Beginner's workshop at 7:00 PM. Dance follows, 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM (unless otherwise indicated). Please carry in clean, soft-soled shoes for dancing. Dance at your own risk.

Admission: $15 per adult, $5 per student with Student ID.

For More Information: (973) 535-3274 or send email to swingintern@folkproject.org

Proof of Covid vaccination is no longer required when Morris County is at the Green/Low or Yellow/Moderate level. For our full Covid protocol, please see https://folkproject.org/covid-guidelines/

What, you may be asking, is Contra Dancing? Watch the video below and see our About Swingin' Tern page for a video and an explanation.
Image
Image
Image
Image

    Click the image below to check out our new dance hall in Chatham.

    Image

    Swingin' Tern Dances

    Location: St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 200 Main Street, Chatham, NJ a smoke and alcohol-free environment. See photos and video below. DIRECTIONS

    Time: Beginner's workshop at 7:00 PM. Dance follows, 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM (unless otherwise indicated). Please carry in clean, soft-soled shoes for dancing. Non-dancing children must be supervised at all times. Dance at your own risk.

    Admission: $15 per adult, $5 per student with Student ID.

    For More Information: (973) 535-3274 or send email to swingintern@folkproject.org

    What, you may be asking, is Contra Dancing? Watch the video below and see our About Swingin' Tern page for a video and an explanation.
    Image
    Image
    Image
    Image

      Click the image below to check out the joy at our Retern to Tern from July 17th, 2021.

      Image
      Sue Gola and Karen Justin with Jaybird!

      This just in!  Justin and Gola go high with a juggernaut of juicy, jazzy, jubilations as Jaybird! jams in a jaunty jambalaya of jackhammer jags.  Jumpstart your jalopy, jaywalk, or jackrabbit to the juiced jamboree jackpot.

      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Sue Gola and Karen Justin
      Photo of Sue Gola and Karen Justin
       
      Sue Gola calling at NEFFA

      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.

      A rising star among the new callers, Karen Justin has wowed the dancers with her engaging personality, calm teaching, and choice of dances.

      Band: Jaybird!
      Photo of Jaybird!

      Jaybird! . . . sassy rhythms, down-to-earth grooves, flights of fancy . . . contra dance heaven. With buttons and strings, Jaybird mixes complex rhythms and joyful energy fueling contra dance mayhem. Jaybird! features Jody Kruskal on Anglo concertina, Sam Zygmuntowicz on fiddle, and Danny Weiss on guitar.

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Bob Isaacs with Brooklyn Swing Ensemble
      You cantilever eyes as Brooklyn bridges so many styles as they decide a pontoons.  They’ll draw you in, swing you around, and leave you in suspension. Girder your strength as Bob helps you get your bearings.  Truss me, arch you glad I got you covered?  Now about that bridge I wanted to sell you. . .
      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Bob Isaacs
      Photo of Bob Isaacs

      Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob Isaacs.  Bob is known for his clear, concise calling.  He is a prolific contra choreographer — his creative dances are called throughout the country. A specialty of Bob’s are his Grid Squares in which one moves from square to square in a single dance. It’s a wild ride.

      Band: Brooklyn Swing Ensemble
      Photo of Brooklyn Swing Ensemble
      Brooklyn Swing Ensemble at Swingin' Tern

       

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Paul Morris with Torrent

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Paul Morris
      Photo of Paul Morris

      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.  He has found his experience as a teacher helps him effectively teach dances to newcomers and experienced dancers alike.

      Band: Torrent
      Photo of Torrent

      Torrent is New York City’s newest contra dance band featuring Nadia Gaya on accordion, Sarah Stefanski on fiddle, and Ross Parker on piano. Torrent’s driving rhythms and exciting tunes will get you on your feet and dancing!

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Alex Deis-Lauby and Qwill Duvall with Dead Sea Squirrels

      DOUBLE DANCE!!

      3:45 – 5:45 pm Afternoon Advanced Contras $15 adults/$5 students
      5:45 – 7:00 pm Dinner Break at the many walkable Chatham restaurants
      7:00 – 7:30 pm Beginners’ Workshop

      7:30 – 10:30 pm All-Level Evening Dance $15 adults/$5 students

      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Alex Deis-Lauby and Qwill Duvall
      Photo of Alex Deis-Lauby and Qwill Duvall
       
      Alex Deis-Lauby calling at Contrastock

      Alexandra Deis-Lauby will be the caller for the Afternoon Advanced Contra session.  Alex began contra dancing in 2011 while at school in Chicago. After catching the contra bug, she began calling in 2014. Alex’s smooth voice, clear teaching style, and engaging dance selections delight dancers from coast to coast. When she’s not calling, you can find her on the dance floor twirling away!

      Qwill Duvall will be the caller for the All-Level Evening Dance.  In Qwill’s words: I am a contra dancer and caller from the midwest. I began contra dancing in 2015 shortly after moving to Chicago. A couple years later I began regularly traveling for dancing and I started calling in 2019. I called regularly in the Chicago area during 2019 and the beginning of 2020, and I was just thinking about going on tour when the pandemic hit. Since my work is now remote and dances have started back up, I am now on the road and touring! I’ve been at it since the beginning of 2023. I’ve called from the midwest to the west coast and will be heading east in the fall!

      Band: Dead Sea Squirrels
      Photo of Dead Sea Squirrels
      Dead Sea Squirrels at Swingin' Tern

      The Dead Sea Squirrels play widely for contra dances and are known for their danceable tunes arranged in medleys designed to closely match and enhance the movements of the particular contra dance being taught/called. They tend to push the boundaries of the southern style with fiddle and fiddle/guitar harmonies. Since all the musicians are also dancers, they understand the importance of the interaction between dancers and musicians, and how to use rhythm and dynamics to augment the feel and excitement of a dance.
      Dead Sea Squirrels features Cathy Mason on fiddle, Craig Edwards on fiddle, banjo, and mandolin, and Henry Yoshimura on guitar.

       

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Sunny Lawrence with Strings Attached

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Sunny Lawrence
      Photo of Sunny Lawrence

      Sunny Lawrence grew up in New York City and began dancing there in 2011. She recently began learning to call contras through Brooklyn Contra’s Caller’s Workshop series. Her goal as a caller is to bring a clear, calm, and joyful presence to the mic, to make contra accessible to new dancers, and to strengthen her beloved dance communities.

      Band: Strings Attached
      Photo of Strings Attached

      String Attached features Christie Riehl on cello. Doug Healy on guitar, and Nathalie Levine on fiddle

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Bob Isaacs with Kingfisher

      OUR 40TH ANNIVERSARY!  Who woulda thunk it back in 1984?  We are ready to celebrate!  Bob Isaacs will call Advanced Contras in the Afternoon.  Our All-Level Evening Dance will be called by our Cavalcade of Callers–our homegrown callers from Swingin’ Tern.  Both sessions will feature the amazing band Kingfisher!  And there’ll be cake!

      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      DOUBLE DANCE:

      3:45 – 5:45 pm Afternoon Advanced Contras $15 adults/$5 students
      5:45 – 7:00 pm Dinner Break at the many walkable Chatham restaurants
      7:00 – 7:30 pm Beginners’ Workshop

      7:30 – 10:30 pm All-Level Evening Dance $15 adults/$5 students

       

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Bob Isaacs
      Photo of Bob Isaacs
       
      Bob Isaacs calling at Swingin' Tern

      Bob Isaacs will be calling the Afternoon Advanced Contra session.  Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob who is known for his clear, concise calling.  He is a prolific contra choreographer — his creative dances are called throughout the country. A specialty of Bob’s are his Grid Squares in which one moves from square to square in a single dance. It’s a wild ride.

      The All-Level Evening Dance will feature our Cavalcade of Callers–those that started out as fledglings at Swingin’ Tern and have takin full flight.  Bob Isaacs is coordinating the evening callers.

       

      Band: Kingfisher
      Photo of Kingfisher
      Dead Sea Squirrels at Swingin' Tern

      Kingfisher, the eclectic duo of Cecilia Vacanti and Jeff Kaufman, plays both traditional and modern contra dance music and has been hailed as one of the most versatile up-and-coming dance bands on the road today. Already a mainstay in the Greater Boston area, they’ve performed to large, enthusiastic crowds on the West Coast, Eastern Seaboard, and throughout the Northeast. Jeff Kaufman, a multi-instrumentalist, anchors the duo from the piano, as well as mandolin and a number of innovative electronic instruments he created himself, providing the duo with bass and drum grooves — all of which gives Cecilia Vacanti the opportunity to wow you with intense fiddling renditions of tunes across the spectrum, surprising even the most seasoned listener with a genre-bending playlist that is absolutely breathtaking.

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Sue Gola and Karen Justin with Jaybird!

      This just in!  Justin and Gola go high with a juggernaut of juicy, jazzy, jubilations as Jaybird! jams in a jaunty jambalaya of jackhammer jags.  Jumpstart your jalopy, jaywalk, or jackrabbit to the juiced jamboree jackpot.

      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Sue Gola and Karen Justin
       
      Sue Gola calling at NEFFA

      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.

      A rising star among the new callers, Karen Justin has wowed the dancers with her engaging personality, calm teaching, and choice of dances.

      Band: Jaybird!

      Jaybird! . . . sassy rhythms, down-to-earth grooves, flights of fancy . . . contra dance heaven. With buttons and strings, Jaybird mixes complex rhythms and joyful energy fueling contra dance mayhem. Jaybird! features Jody Kruskal on Anglo concertina, Sam Zygmuntowicz on fiddle, and Danny Weiss on guitar.

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Bob Isaacs with Brooklyn Swing Ensemble
      You cantilever eyes as Brooklyn bridges so many styles as they decide a pontoons.  They’ll draw you in, swing you around, and leave you in suspension. Girder your strength as Bob helps you get your bearings.  Truss me, arch you glad I got you covered?  Now about that bridge I wanted to sell you. . .
      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Bob Isaacs

      Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob Isaacs.  Bob is known for his clear, concise calling.  He is a prolific contra choreographer — his creative dances are called throughout the country. A specialty of Bob’s are his Grid Squares in which one moves from square to square in a single dance. It’s a wild ride.

      Band: Brooklyn Swing Ensemble
       
      Brooklyn Swing Ensemble at Swingin' Tern

       

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Paul Morris with Torrent

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Paul Morris

      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.  He has found his experience as a teacher helps him effectively teach dances to newcomers and experienced dancers alike.

      Band: Torrent

      Torrent is New York City’s newest contra dance band featuring Nadia Gaya on accordion, Sarah Stefanski on fiddle, and Ross Parker on piano. Torrent’s driving rhythms and exciting tunes will get you on your feet and dancing!

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Alex Deis-Lauby and Qwill Duvall with Dead Sea Squirrels

      DOUBLE DANCE!!

      3:45 – 5:45 pm Afternoon Advanced Contras $15 adults/$5 students
      5:45 – 7:00 pm Dinner Break at the many walkable Chatham restaurants
      7:00 – 7:30 pm Beginners’ Workshop

      7:30 – 10:30 pm All-Level Evening Dance $15 adults/$5 students

      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Alex Deis-Lauby and Qwill Duvall
       
      Alex Deis-Lauby calling at Contrastock

      Alexandra Deis-Lauby will be the caller for the Afternoon Advanced Contra session.  Alex began contra dancing in 2011 while at school in Chicago. After catching the contra bug, she began calling in 2014. Alex’s smooth voice, clear teaching style, and engaging dance selections delight dancers from coast to coast. When she’s not calling, you can find her on the dance floor twirling away!

      Qwill Duvall will be the caller for the All-Level Evening Dance.  In Qwill’s words: I am a contra dancer and caller from the midwest. I began contra dancing in 2015 shortly after moving to Chicago. A couple years later I began regularly traveling for dancing and I started calling in 2019. I called regularly in the Chicago area during 2019 and the beginning of 2020, and I was just thinking about going on tour when the pandemic hit. Since my work is now remote and dances have started back up, I am now on the road and touring! I’ve been at it since the beginning of 2023. I’ve called from the midwest to the west coast and will be heading east in the fall!

      Band: Dead Sea Squirrels
       
      Dead Sea Squirrels at Swingin' Tern

      The Dead Sea Squirrels play widely for contra dances and are known for their danceable tunes arranged in medleys designed to closely match and enhance the movements of the particular contra dance being taught/called. They tend to push the boundaries of the southern style with fiddle and fiddle/guitar harmonies. Since all the musicians are also dancers, they understand the importance of the interaction between dancers and musicians, and how to use rhythm and dynamics to augment the feel and excitement of a dance.
      Dead Sea Squirrels features Cathy Mason on fiddle, Craig Edwards on fiddle, banjo, and mandolin, and Henry Yoshimura on guitar.

       

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Sunny Lawrence with Strings Attached

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Sunny Lawrence

      Sunny Lawrence grew up in New York City and began dancing there in 2011. She recently began learning to call contras through Brooklyn Contra’s Caller’s Workshop series. Her goal as a caller is to bring a clear, calm, and joyful presence to the mic, to make contra accessible to new dancers, and to strengthen her beloved dance communities.

      Band: Strings Attached

      String Attached features Christie Riehl on cello. Doug Healy on guitar, and Nathalie Levine on fiddle

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Bob Isaacs with Kingfisher

      OUR 40TH ANNIVERSARY!  Who woulda thunk it back in 1984?  We are ready to celebrate!  Bob Isaacs will call Advanced Contras in the Afternoon.  Our All-Level Evening Dance will be called by our Cavalcade of Callers–our homegrown callers from Swingin’ Tern.  Both sessions will feature the amazing band Kingfisher!  And there’ll be cake!

      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      DOUBLE DANCE:

      3:45 – 5:45 pm Afternoon Advanced Contras $15 adults/$5 students
      5:45 – 7:00 pm Dinner Break at the many walkable Chatham restaurants
      7:00 – 7:30 pm Beginners’ Workshop

      7:30 – 10:30 pm All-Level Evening Dance $15 adults/$5 students

       

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Bob Isaacs
       
      Bob Isaacs calling at Swingin' Tern

      Bob Isaacs will be calling the Afternoon Advanced Contra session.  Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob who is known for his clear, concise calling.  He is a prolific contra choreographer — his creative dances are called throughout the country. A specialty of Bob’s are his Grid Squares in which one moves from square to square in a single dance. It’s a wild ride.

      The All-Level Evening Dance will feature our Cavalcade of Callers–those that started out as fledglings at Swingin’ Tern and have takin full flight.  Bob Isaacs is coordinating the evening callers.

       

      Band: Kingfisher
       
      Dead Sea Squirrels at Swingin' Tern

      Kingfisher, the eclectic duo of Cecilia Vacanti and Jeff Kaufman, plays both traditional and modern contra dance music and has been hailed as one of the most versatile up-and-coming dance bands on the road today. Already a mainstay in the Greater Boston area, they’ve performed to large, enthusiastic crowds on the West Coast, Eastern Seaboard, and throughout the Northeast. Jeff Kaufman, a multi-instrumentalist, anchors the duo from the piano, as well as mandolin and a number of innovative electronic instruments he created himself, providing the duo with bass and drum grooves — all of which gives Cecilia Vacanti the opportunity to wow you with intense fiddling renditions of tunes across the spectrum, surprising even the most seasoned listener with a genre-bending playlist that is absolutely breathtaking.

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Sue Gola and Karen Justin with Jaybird!

      This just in!  Justin and Gola go high with a juggernaut of juicy, jazzy, jubilations as Jaybird! jams in a jaunty jambalaya of jackhammer jags.  Jumpstart your jalopy, jaywalk, or jackrabbit to the juiced jamboree jackpot.

      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Sue Gola and Karen Justin
      Sue Gola calling at NEFFA

      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.

      A rising star among the new callers, Karen Justin has wowed the dancers with her engaging personality, calm teaching, and choice of dances.

      Band: Jaybird!

      Jaybird! . . . sassy rhythms, down-to-earth grooves, flights of fancy . . . contra dance heaven. With buttons and strings, Jaybird mixes complex rhythms and joyful energy fueling contra dance mayhem. Jaybird! features Jody Kruskal on Anglo concertina, Sam Zygmuntowicz on fiddle, and Danny Weiss on guitar.

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Bob Isaacs with Brooklyn Swing Ensemble
      You cantilever eyes as Brooklyn bridges so many styles as they decide a pontoons.  They’ll draw you in, swing you around, and leave you in suspension. Girder your strength as Bob helps you get your bearings.  Truss me, arch you glad I got you covered?  Now about that bridge I wanted to sell you. . .
      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Bob Isaacs

      Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob Isaacs.  Bob is known for his clear, concise calling.  He is a prolific contra choreographer — his creative dances are called throughout the country. A specialty of Bob’s are his Grid Squares in which one moves from square to square in a single dance. It’s a wild ride.

      Band: Brooklyn Swing Ensemble
      Brooklyn Swing Ensemble at Swingin' Tern

       

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Paul Morris with Torrent

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Paul Morris

      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.  He has found his experience as a teacher helps him effectively teach dances to newcomers and experienced dancers alike.

      Band: Torrent

      Torrent is New York City’s newest contra dance band featuring Nadia Gaya on accordion, Sarah Stefanski on fiddle, and Ross Parker on piano. Torrent’s driving rhythms and exciting tunes will get you on your feet and dancing!

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Alex Deis-Lauby and Qwill Duvall with Dead Sea Squirrels

      DOUBLE DANCE!!

      3:45 – 5:45 pm Afternoon Advanced Contras $15 adults/$5 students
      5:45 – 7:00 pm Dinner Break at the many walkable Chatham restaurants
      7:00 – 7:30 pm Beginners’ Workshop

      7:30 – 10:30 pm All-Level Evening Dance $15 adults/$5 students

      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Alex Deis-Lauby and Qwill Duvall
      Alex Deis-Lauby calling at Contrastock

      Alexandra Deis-Lauby will be the caller for the Afternoon Advanced Contra session.  Alex began contra dancing in 2011 while at school in Chicago. After catching the contra bug, she began calling in 2014. Alex’s smooth voice, clear teaching style, and engaging dance selections delight dancers from coast to coast. When she’s not calling, you can find her on the dance floor twirling away!

      Qwill Duvall will be the caller for the All-Level Evening Dance.  In Qwill’s words: I am a contra dancer and caller from the midwest. I began contra dancing in 2015 shortly after moving to Chicago. A couple years later I began regularly traveling for dancing and I started calling in 2019. I called regularly in the Chicago area during 2019 and the beginning of 2020, and I was just thinking about going on tour when the pandemic hit. Since my work is now remote and dances have started back up, I am now on the road and touring! I’ve been at it since the beginning of 2023. I’ve called from the midwest to the west coast and will be heading east in the fall!

      Band: Dead Sea Squirrels
      Dead Sea Squirrels at Swingin' Tern

      The Dead Sea Squirrels play widely for contra dances and are known for their danceable tunes arranged in medleys designed to closely match and enhance the movements of the particular contra dance being taught/called. They tend to push the boundaries of the southern style with fiddle and fiddle/guitar harmonies. Since all the musicians are also dancers, they understand the importance of the interaction between dancers and musicians, and how to use rhythm and dynamics to augment the feel and excitement of a dance.
      Dead Sea Squirrels features Cathy Mason on fiddle, Craig Edwards on fiddle, banjo, and mandolin, and Henry Yoshimura on guitar.

       

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Sunny Lawrence with Strings Attached

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Sunny Lawrence

      Sunny Lawrence grew up in New York City and began dancing there in 2011. She recently began learning to call contras through Brooklyn Contra’s Caller’s Workshop series. Her goal as a caller is to bring a clear, calm, and joyful presence to the mic, to make contra accessible to new dancers, and to strengthen her beloved dance communities.

      Band: Strings Attached

      String Attached features Christie Riehl on cello. Doug Healy on guitar, and Nathalie Levine on fiddle

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
      Bob Isaacs with Kingfisher

      OUR 40TH ANNIVERSARY!  Who woulda thunk it back in 1984?  We are ready to celebrate!  Bob Isaacs will call Advanced Contras in the Afternoon.  Our All-Level Evening Dance will be called by our Cavalcade of Callers–our homegrown callers from Swingin’ Tern.  Both sessions will feature the amazing band Kingfisher!  And there’ll be cake!

      This dance will be called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins instead of the traditional Ladies & Gents.  Larks are on the Left of the couple.  Robins are on the Right of the couple.

      DOUBLE DANCE:

      3:45 – 5:45 pm Afternoon Advanced Contras $15 adults/$5 students
      5:45 – 7:00 pm Dinner Break at the many walkable Chatham restaurants
      7:00 – 7:30 pm Beginners’ Workshop

      7:30 – 10:30 pm All-Level Evening Dance $15 adults/$5 students

       

      Masks and vaccinations optional.

      Caller: Bob Isaacs
      Bob Isaacs calling at Swingin' Tern

      Bob Isaacs will be calling the Afternoon Advanced Contra session.  Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob who is known for his clear, concise calling.  He is a prolific contra choreographer — his creative dances are called throughout the country. A specialty of Bob’s are his Grid Squares in which one moves from square to square in a single dance. It’s a wild ride.

      The All-Level Evening Dance will feature our Cavalcade of Callers–those that started out as fledglings at Swingin’ Tern and have takin full flight.  Bob Isaacs is coordinating the evening callers.

       

      Band: Kingfisher
      Dead Sea Squirrels at Swingin' Tern

      Kingfisher, the eclectic duo of Cecilia Vacanti and Jeff Kaufman, plays both traditional and modern contra dance music and has been hailed as one of the most versatile up-and-coming dance bands on the road today. Already a mainstay in the Greater Boston area, they’ve performed to large, enthusiastic crowds on the West Coast, Eastern Seaboard, and throughout the Northeast. Jeff Kaufman, a multi-instrumentalist, anchors the duo from the piano, as well as mandolin and a number of innovative electronic instruments he created himself, providing the duo with bass and drum grooves — all of which gives Cecilia Vacanti the opportunity to wow you with intense fiddling renditions of tunes across the spectrum, surprising even the most seasoned listener with a genre-bending playlist that is absolutely breathtaking.

      COVID PROTOCOL

      • Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required.
      • We once again welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
      • Please bring your own water bottle with your name on it. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.