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 - $20 per adult, $5 per student.
For More Information: (973) 886-9662 or send email to [email protected]
Bands and callers, email our booking contact at [email protected]
DOUBLE DANCE
3:45 – 5:45 pm **Afternoon Advanced Contras $20 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 – 10:30pm All-Level Evening Dance $20 adults/$5 students
Combo admission for both sessions $35/$10 students
Northwoods leads us Into the Woods with their timbre tunes. Steve will call old Chestnuts along with Currant Poplar contras. For just a few Buckeyes, Yew Alder go for a Peach of a time. So, Spruce yourself up and bring your Pawpaw or Elder, but leave your Dogwood and Catalpa at home. If you don’t give a Fig, and Banyan all hope, you’ll Pine and Balsam if you miss this dance. Cedar light and get your Ash in gear; there’s no way you’ll be Sycamore contras. You don’t need Persimmon to Yucca it up.
Steve Zakon-Anderson has been calling contras for over 40 years. He enthusiastically embraces the role of facilitator aiding the joyful connection between the music on the stage and the dancers on the floor. Steve is appreciated by dancers for his skill at programming the right dances for the hall, for his clear and efficient teaching, and for his sense of humor, and is appreciated by dance bands for his considerate weaving of his calling with their music.
Northwoods is a Boston-based band that brings a seamless blend of unstoppable groove, infectious melodies, and boundless energy to the dance floor. Featuring Casey Murray on guitar and cello, Molly Tucker on fiddle, and Sam Zakon-Anderson on piano, the band approaches contra dance music with a balance of tradition and innovation. They have found that their styles intertwine effortlessly, creating a groove that keeps dancers engaged from the first downbeat to the final note of the night.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- 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 no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- **The Afternoon Advanced Contras session is for Experienced Contra Dancers only. You should be familiar with ricochet heys, petronellas, Rorey O’More, pass the ocean, orbits, etc., with minimal prompting. If not, please join us for the evening dance.
- Our hall is air-conditioned along with windows on three sides.
- 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!
This is a FREE dance sponsored by Ricki & Bill Slezak to celebrate their 50th Anniversary.
The chatter in Chatham is that Blue Jersey is the talk of all the towns. Carl’s Collingswood be enough, but with a band to Rockaway the night, you’ll Wanaque up in the center line. Ewing seen nuthin’ yet as those born to be Wildwood go Alloway over Andover. So Ironia your Oxford, use your Gillette, put on your Cologne, and grab a guy from Manville, a Lacey lady of Verona or your Palmyra. If life Hazlet you down, you’re crying Mahwah and you’ve given up Hope, come say Ho Ho Kus you’ll Sea Bright talent at the Summit of entertainment for just a Little Silver. Orange you glad Swingin’ Tern will have you saying thank you Allamuchy as you land in Pleasantville?
Carl Levine has been a familiar face on the dance floor and on the stage. He has been dancing, organizing, and calling traditional dance for thirty years. His teaching is clear and concise, and his programming is lively and interesting.
Blue Jersey Contra Dance Band plays traditional and contemporary contra dance tunes. They have played contra dances in NJ, PA, NY and surrounding areas since 2000. Their large repertoire includes jigs, reels, waltzes, Quebecois, Irish, French, and swing tunes. The band features Louise McClure on fiddle, Frank Ruck on mandolin, Ellen Ruck on guitar, and Kai Gibson on bass.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- This is a FREE dance. Donations to Swingin’ Tern are appreciated.
- 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.
- Our hall has windows on all four 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!
This is a FREE dance sponsored by Roz to celebrate Gary Kendellen’s birthday.
Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob Isaacs. Bob has treated dancers across the nation to his many creative dances, clear teaching, and spirited calling. A prolific choreographer, his much-loved dances emphasize flow and energy. His dancer-focused calling is spot on, and you’ll know you are in good hands as you let go and become one with the dance.
Brooklyn Swing Ensemble has been gracing the stage of Swingin’ Tern for over thirty years. They are well known in the Northeast for their unique blend of fiddle tunes, Klezmer music, and swing/blues – playing for contra dances and other events throughout the region. With fiddle and clarinet as the lead instruments, the world is their musical oyster, and they are unafraid to explore!! The band features Danny Elias on clarinet, Sam Zygmuntowicz on fiddle, Marco Brehm on double bass, and Norman Plankey on guitar.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- This is a FREE dance. Donations to Swingin’ Tern are appreciated.
- 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.
- Our hall has windows on all four 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!
Come dance in the New Year–a Swingin’ Tern tradition for 40 years!
Pot Luck Dinner 6:30pm–Please bring a entree or side dish to share.
Dancing from 8pm to 12:30am-–including our fabulous dessert break [bring a dessert to share] and midnight toast!
Admission: $25 until12/25; $30 after 12/26 and at the door. Students $12 until 12/25; $15 after 12/26 and at the door.
Gaye Fifer is an accomplished caller from Pittsburgh, PA. An active dancer herself, Gaye understands the subtleties of making dances particularly satisfying for dancers. Her instructions are clear and concise, as she is a teacher by profession. An easy smile and delightful sense of humor are part of Gaye’s relaxed, pleasant style at the microphone. Gaye calls contra and English dances throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is also an enthusiastic advocate and instructor of contra-style waltz. Gaye is the former President of the Board of CDSS.
Box & String is the duo of Bill Quern and Sarah Gowan. Together they play instrumental traditional roots music from the American Appalachians, England, Canada, Scandinavia, and France as well as our original music composed in traditional styles. With a combined instrument collection that includes guitar, mandolin, concertina, melodeon, 4 & 5 string banjo, fiddle, harmonica, jaw harp and foot percussion they provide a varied and entertaining program. They expand to Box & String Quartet for this evening with Laura Alexander on cello, and Peter Subramanian on fiddle.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- Bring an entree or sidedish to share for the potluck or a dessert for our dessert break.
- We no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- Our hall has windows on all four sides along with air-conditioning when needed.
- Please bring your own water bottle. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
- Wear comfortable clothing although festive clothing is welcome. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Our 43rd Anniversary Dance!
Note: We will not be dancing on January 2nd due to its proximity to our New Year’s Eve Dance.
Bob Isaacs continues our Anniversary tradition of coordinating callers that honed their calling chops at Swingin’ Tern. Sue Gola, Karen Justin, and Christie Riehl are likely to be booked.
Doug Healy coordinates several bands. He is in the process of choosing one to celebrate our 43rd Anniversary.
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. We accept Apple/Google Pay and credit cards.
- 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.
- Our hall is air-conditioned with the option to open windows on all four sides.
- 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!
Alex Deis-Lauby 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!
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.
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. We accept Apple/Google Pay and credit cards.
- 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.
- Our hall is air-conditioned with the option to open windows on all four sides.
- 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!
Julian Blechner has a passion for contra dance, and is excited to share it with you! He is a seasoned contra and set dance caller based in Western Massachusetts. Since 2011, he’s called dances of all sizes, from big festival and camp stages, to series from Maine to the Mid-Atlantic.
Julian is excited to return to Swingin’ Tern—it’s been 11 years since he graced our stage. He loves calling for all skill levels. He brings a cheerful, friendly attitude with clear, concise teaching and prompting. Julian has written dozens of dances and combines this expertise with his love of dancing to provide a joyful flair to dances!
Cojiro (CO-juh-ro), Mark Price on guitar, Jess Newman on fiddle, and joined by Benjamin Graubart on mandolin, is an acoustic dance band creating modern folk music for contra dance: Stompy, fun, and funky.
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. We accept Apple/Google Pay and credit cards.
- 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.
- Our hall is air-conditioned with the option to open windows on all four sides.
- 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!
DOUBLE DANCE
3:45 – 5:45 pm **Afternoon Advanced Contras $20 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 – 10:30pm All-Level Evening Dance $20 adults/$5 students
Combo admission for both sessions $35/$10 students
Will Mentor is a contra and square dance caller from Northern Vermont known for his clear teaching, upbeat wit, and relaxed stage presence. He loves to choreograph evenings with a variety of dances and tempos that at times surprise and always delight, all the while keeping intact his guiding principle as a caller: “It’s about the dancers!”
Booking a TBA band to match the talents of Will Mentor is in the works.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- 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 no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- **The Afternoon Advanced Contras session is for Experienced Contra Dancers only. You should be familiar with ricochet heys, petronellas, Rorey O’More, pass the ocean, orbits, etc., with minimal prompting. If not, please join us for the evening dance.
- Our hall is air-conditioned along with windows on three sides.
- 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!
DOUBLE DANCE
3:45 – 5:45 pm **Afternoon Advanced Contras $20 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 – 10:30pm All-Level Evening Dance $20 adults/$5 students
Combo admission for both sessions $35/$10 students
Northwoods leads us Into the Woods with their timbre tunes. Steve will call old Chestnuts along with Currant Poplar contras. For just a few Buckeyes, Yew Alder go for a Peach of a time. So, Spruce yourself up and bring your Pawpaw or Elder, but leave your Dogwood and Catalpa at home. If you don’t give a Fig, and Banyan all hope, you’ll Pine and Balsam if you miss this dance. Cedar light and get your Ash in gear; there’s no way you’ll be Sycamore contras. You don’t need Persimmon to Yucca it up.
Steve Zakon-Anderson has been calling contras for over 40 years. He enthusiastically embraces the role of facilitator aiding the joyful connection between the music on the stage and the dancers on the floor. Steve is appreciated by dancers for his skill at programming the right dances for the hall, for his clear and efficient teaching, and for his sense of humor, and is appreciated by dance bands for his considerate weaving of his calling with their music.
Northwoods is a Boston-based band that brings a seamless blend of unstoppable groove, infectious melodies, and boundless energy to the dance floor. Featuring Casey Murray on guitar and cello, Molly Tucker on fiddle, and Sam Zakon-Anderson on piano, the band approaches contra dance music with a balance of tradition and innovation. They have found that their styles intertwine effortlessly, creating a groove that keeps dancers engaged from the first downbeat to the final note of the night.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- 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 no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- **The Afternoon Advanced Contras session is for Experienced Contra Dancers only. You should be familiar with ricochet heys, petronellas, Rorey O’More, pass the ocean, orbits, etc., with minimal prompting. If not, please join us for the evening dance.
- Our hall is air-conditioned along with windows on three sides.
- 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!
This is a FREE dance sponsored by Ricki & Bill Slezak to celebrate their 50th Anniversary.
The chatter in Chatham is that Blue Jersey is the talk of all the towns. Carl’s Collingswood be enough, but with a band to Rockaway the night, you’ll Wanaque up in the center line. Ewing seen nuthin’ yet as those born to be Wildwood go Alloway over Andover. So Ironia your Oxford, use your Gillette, put on your Cologne, and grab a guy from Manville, a Lacey lady of Verona or your Palmyra. If life Hazlet you down, you’re crying Mahwah and you’ve given up Hope, come say Ho Ho Kus you’ll Sea Bright talent at the Summit of entertainment for just a Little Silver. Orange you glad Swingin’ Tern will have you saying thank you Allamuchy as you land in Pleasantville?
Carl Levine has been a familiar face on the dance floor and on the stage. He has been dancing, organizing, and calling traditional dance for thirty years. His teaching is clear and concise, and his programming is lively and interesting.
Blue Jersey Contra Dance Band plays traditional and contemporary contra dance tunes. They have played contra dances in NJ, PA, NY and surrounding areas since 2000. Their large repertoire includes jigs, reels, waltzes, Quebecois, Irish, French, and swing tunes. The band features Louise McClure on fiddle, Frank Ruck on mandolin, Ellen Ruck on guitar, and Kai Gibson on bass.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- This is a FREE dance. Donations to Swingin’ Tern are appreciated.
- 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.
- Our hall has windows on all four 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!
This is a FREE dance sponsored by Roz to celebrate Gary Kendellen’s birthday.
Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob Isaacs. Bob has treated dancers across the nation to his many creative dances, clear teaching, and spirited calling. A prolific choreographer, his much-loved dances emphasize flow and energy. His dancer-focused calling is spot on, and you’ll know you are in good hands as you let go and become one with the dance.
Brooklyn Swing Ensemble has been gracing the stage of Swingin’ Tern for over thirty years. They are well known in the Northeast for their unique blend of fiddle tunes, Klezmer music, and swing/blues – playing for contra dances and other events throughout the region. With fiddle and clarinet as the lead instruments, the world is their musical oyster, and they are unafraid to explore!! The band features Danny Elias on clarinet, Sam Zygmuntowicz on fiddle, Marco Brehm on double bass, and Norman Plankey on guitar.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- This is a FREE dance. Donations to Swingin’ Tern are appreciated.
- 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.
- Our hall has windows on all four 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!
Come dance in the New Year–a Swingin’ Tern tradition for 40 years!
Pot Luck Dinner 6:30pm–Please bring a entree or side dish to share.
Dancing from 8pm to 12:30am-–including our fabulous dessert break [bring a dessert to share] and midnight toast!
Admission: $25 until12/25; $30 after 12/26 and at the door. Students $12 until 12/25; $15 after 12/26 and at the door.
Gaye Fifer is an accomplished caller from Pittsburgh, PA. An active dancer herself, Gaye understands the subtleties of making dances particularly satisfying for dancers. Her instructions are clear and concise, as she is a teacher by profession. An easy smile and delightful sense of humor are part of Gaye’s relaxed, pleasant style at the microphone. Gaye calls contra and English dances throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is also an enthusiastic advocate and instructor of contra-style waltz. Gaye is the former President of the Board of CDSS.
Box & String is the duo of Bill Quern and Sarah Gowan. Together they play instrumental traditional roots music from the American Appalachians, England, Canada, Scandinavia, and France as well as our original music composed in traditional styles. With a combined instrument collection that includes guitar, mandolin, concertina, melodeon, 4 & 5 string banjo, fiddle, harmonica, jaw harp and foot percussion they provide a varied and entertaining program. They expand to Box & String Quartet for this evening with Laura Alexander on cello, and Peter Subramanian on fiddle.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- Bring an entree or sidedish to share for the potluck or a dessert for our dessert break.
- We no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- Our hall has windows on all four sides along with air-conditioning when needed.
- Please bring your own water bottle. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
- Wear comfortable clothing although festive clothing is welcome. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Our 43rd Anniversary Dance!
Note: We will not be dancing on January 2nd due to its proximity to our New Year’s Eve Dance.
Bob Isaacs continues our Anniversary tradition of coordinating callers that honed their calling chops at Swingin’ Tern. Sue Gola, Karen Justin, and Christie Riehl are likely to be booked.
Doug Healy coordinates several bands. He is in the process of choosing one to celebrate our 43rd Anniversary.
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. We accept Apple/Google Pay and credit cards.
- 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.
- Our hall is air-conditioned with the option to open windows on all four sides.
- 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!
Alex Deis-Lauby 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!
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.
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. We accept Apple/Google Pay and credit cards.
- 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.
- Our hall is air-conditioned with the option to open windows on all four sides.
- 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!
Julian Blechner has a passion for contra dance, and is excited to share it with you! He is a seasoned contra and set dance caller based in Western Massachusetts. Since 2011, he’s called dances of all sizes, from big festival and camp stages, to series from Maine to the Mid-Atlantic.
Julian is excited to return to Swingin’ Tern—it’s been 11 years since he graced our stage. He loves calling for all skill levels. He brings a cheerful, friendly attitude with clear, concise teaching and prompting. Julian has written dozens of dances and combines this expertise with his love of dancing to provide a joyful flair to dances!
Cojiro (CO-juh-ro), Mark Price on guitar, Jess Newman on fiddle, and joined by Benjamin Graubart on mandolin, is an acoustic dance band creating modern folk music for contra dance: Stompy, fun, and funky.
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. We accept Apple/Google Pay and credit cards.
- 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.
- Our hall is air-conditioned with the option to open windows on all four sides.
- 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!
DOUBLE DANCE
3:45 – 5:45 pm **Afternoon Advanced Contras $20 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 – 10:30pm All-Level Evening Dance $20 adults/$5 students
Combo admission for both sessions $35/$10 students
Will Mentor is a contra and square dance caller from Northern Vermont known for his clear teaching, upbeat wit, and relaxed stage presence. He loves to choreograph evenings with a variety of dances and tempos that at times surprise and always delight, all the while keeping intact his guiding principle as a caller: “It’s about the dancers!”
Booking a TBA band to match the talents of Will Mentor is in the works.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- 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 no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- **The Afternoon Advanced Contras session is for Experienced Contra Dancers only. You should be familiar with ricochet heys, petronellas, Rorey O’More, pass the ocean, orbits, etc., with minimal prompting. If not, please join us for the evening dance.
- Our hall is air-conditioned along with windows on three sides.
- 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!
DOUBLE DANCE
3:45 – 5:45 pm **Afternoon Advanced Contras $20 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 – 10:30pm All-Level Evening Dance $20 adults/$5 students
Combo admission for both sessions $35/$10 students
Northwoods leads us Into the Woods with their timbre tunes. Steve will call old Chestnuts along with Currant Poplar contras. For just a few Buckeyes, Yew Alder go for a Peach of a time. So, Spruce yourself up and bring your Pawpaw or Elder, but leave your Dogwood and Catalpa at home. If you don’t give a Fig, and Banyan all hope, you’ll Pine and Balsam if you miss this dance. Cedar light and get your Ash in gear; there’s no way you’ll be Sycamore contras. You don’t need Persimmon to Yucca it up.
Steve Zakon-Anderson has been calling contras for over 40 years. He enthusiastically embraces the role of facilitator aiding the joyful connection between the music on the stage and the dancers on the floor. Steve is appreciated by dancers for his skill at programming the right dances for the hall, for his clear and efficient teaching, and for his sense of humor, and is appreciated by dance bands for his considerate weaving of his calling with their music.
Video: Northwoods
Northwoods is a Boston-based band that brings a seamless blend of unstoppable groove, infectious melodies, and boundless energy to the dance floor. Featuring Casey Murray on guitar and cello, Molly Tucker on fiddle, and Sam Zakon-Anderson on piano, the band approaches contra dance music with a balance of tradition and innovation. They have found that their styles intertwine effortlessly, creating a groove that keeps dancers engaged from the first downbeat to the final note of the night.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- 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 no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- **The Afternoon Advanced Contras session is for Experienced Contra Dancers only. You should be familiar with ricochet heys, petronellas, Rorey O’More, pass the ocean, orbits, etc., with minimal prompting. If not, please join us for the evening dance.
- Our hall is air-conditioned along with windows on three sides.
- 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!
This is a FREE dance sponsored by Ricki & Bill Slezak to celebrate their 50th Anniversary.
The chatter in Chatham is that Blue Jersey is the talk of all the towns. Carl’s Collingswood be enough, but with a band to Rockaway the night, you’ll Wanaque up in the center line. Ewing seen nuthin’ yet as those born to be Wildwood go Alloway over Andover. So Ironia your Oxford, use your Gillette, put on your Cologne, and grab a guy from Manville, a Lacey lady of Verona or your Palmyra. If life Hazlet you down, you’re crying Mahwah and you’ve given up Hope, come say Ho Ho Kus you’ll Sea Bright talent at the Summit of entertainment for just a Little Silver. Orange you glad Swingin’ Tern will have you saying thank you Allamuchy as you land in Pleasantville?
Carl Levine has been a familiar face on the dance floor and on the stage. He has been dancing, organizing, and calling traditional dance for thirty years. His teaching is clear and concise, and his programming is lively and interesting.
Video: Blue Jersey at Swingin' Tern
Blue Jersey Contra Dance Band plays traditional and contemporary contra dance tunes. They have played contra dances in NJ, PA, NY and surrounding areas since 2000. Their large repertoire includes jigs, reels, waltzes, Quebecois, Irish, French, and swing tunes. The band features Louise McClure on fiddle, Frank Ruck on mandolin, Ellen Ruck on guitar, and Kai Gibson on bass.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- This is a FREE dance. Donations to Swingin’ Tern are appreciated.
- 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.
- Our hall has windows on all four 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!
This is a FREE dance sponsored by Roz to celebrate Gary Kendellen’s birthday.
Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob Isaacs. Bob has treated dancers across the nation to his many creative dances, clear teaching, and spirited calling. A prolific choreographer, his much-loved dances emphasize flow and energy. His dancer-focused calling is spot on, and you’ll know you are in good hands as you let go and become one with the dance.
Video: Blue Jersey at Swingin' Tern
Brooklyn Swing Ensemble has been gracing the stage of Swingin’ Tern for over thirty years. They are well known in the Northeast for their unique blend of fiddle tunes, Klezmer music, and swing/blues – playing for contra dances and other events throughout the region. With fiddle and clarinet as the lead instruments, the world is their musical oyster, and they are unafraid to explore!! The band features Danny Elias on clarinet, Sam Zygmuntowicz on fiddle, Marco Brehm on double bass, and Norman Plankey on guitar.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- This is a FREE dance. Donations to Swingin’ Tern are appreciated.
- 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.
- Our hall has windows on all four 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!
Come dance in the New Year–a Swingin’ Tern tradition for 40 years!
Pot Luck Dinner 6:30pm–Please bring a entree or side dish to share.
Dancing from 8pm to 12:30am-–including our fabulous dessert break [bring a dessert to share] and midnight toast!
Admission: $25 until12/25; $30 after 12/26 and at the door. Students $12 until 12/25; $15 after 12/26 and at the door.
Gaye Fifer is an accomplished caller from Pittsburgh, PA. An active dancer herself, Gaye understands the subtleties of making dances particularly satisfying for dancers. Her instructions are clear and concise, as she is a teacher by profession. An easy smile and delightful sense of humor are part of Gaye’s relaxed, pleasant style at the microphone. Gaye calls contra and English dances throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is also an enthusiastic advocate and instructor of contra-style waltz. Gaye is the former President of the Board of CDSS.
Box & String is the duo of Bill Quern and Sarah Gowan. Together they play instrumental traditional roots music from the American Appalachians, England, Canada, Scandinavia, and France as well as our original music composed in traditional styles. With a combined instrument collection that includes guitar, mandolin, concertina, melodeon, 4 & 5 string banjo, fiddle, harmonica, jaw harp and foot percussion they provide a varied and entertaining program. They expand to Box & String Quartet for this evening with Laura Alexander on cello, and Peter Subramanian on fiddle.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- Bring an entree or sidedish to share for the potluck or a dessert for our dessert break.
- We no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- Our hall has windows on all four sides along with air-conditioning when needed.
- Please bring your own water bottle. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
- Wear comfortable clothing although festive clothing is welcome. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Our 43rd Anniversary Dance!
Note: We will not be dancing on January 2nd due to its proximity to our New Year’s Eve Dance.
Bob Isaacs continues our Anniversary tradition of coordinating callers that honed their calling chops at Swingin’ Tern. Sue Gola, Karen Justin, and Christie Riehl are likely to be booked.
Doug Healy coordinates several bands. He is in the process of choosing one to celebrate our 43rd Anniversary.
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. We accept Apple/Google Pay and credit cards.
- 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.
- Our hall is air-conditioned with the option to open windows on all four sides.
- 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!
Alex Deis-Lauby 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!
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.
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. We accept Apple/Google Pay and credit cards.
- 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.
- Our hall is air-conditioned with the option to open windows on all four sides.
- 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!
Julian Blechner has a passion for contra dance, and is excited to share it with you! He is a seasoned contra and set dance caller based in Western Massachusetts. Since 2011, he’s called dances of all sizes, from big festival and camp stages, to series from Maine to the Mid-Atlantic.
Julian is excited to return to Swingin’ Tern—it’s been 11 years since he graced our stage. He loves calling for all skill levels. He brings a cheerful, friendly attitude with clear, concise teaching and prompting. Julian has written dozens of dances and combines this expertise with his love of dancing to provide a joyful flair to dances!
Video: Cojiro jamming
Cojiro (CO-juh-ro), Mark Price on guitar, Jess Newman on fiddle, and joined by Benjamin Graubart on mandolin, is an acoustic dance band creating modern folk music for contra dance: Stompy, fun, and funky.
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. We accept Apple/Google Pay and credit cards.
- 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.
- Our hall is air-conditioned with the option to open windows on all four sides.
- 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!
DOUBLE DANCE
3:45 – 5:45 pm **Afternoon Advanced Contras $20 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 – 10:30pm All-Level Evening Dance $20 adults/$5 students
Combo admission for both sessions $35/$10 students
Will Mentor is a contra and square dance caller from Northern Vermont known for his clear teaching, upbeat wit, and relaxed stage presence. He loves to choreograph evenings with a variety of dances and tempos that at times surprise and always delight, all the while keeping intact his guiding principle as a caller: “It’s about the dancers!”
Booking a TBA band to match the talents of Will Mentor is in the works.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- 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 no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- **The Afternoon Advanced Contras session is for Experienced Contra Dancers only. You should be familiar with ricochet heys, petronellas, Rorey O’More, pass the ocean, orbits, etc., with minimal prompting. If not, please join us for the evening dance.
- Our hall is air-conditioned along with windows on three sides.
- 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!