Ontario Center for Performing Arts (aka Oswego Music Hall), along with Stewart’s Shops, is sponsoring regular Contra Dances through most of the year, providing energizing fun for all ages! Contra dances are a combination of line and square dancing – fast-paced, joyful, learn-as-you-go. Dances run from 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., following a newcomers workshop at 7 p.m. Each dance features a live band and a “caller” who gives instructions to the dancers while the music plays.
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Current dance schedule:
- November 4, 2011 - Band: Salt Potatoes; Caller: Sarah Van Norstrand
- December 2, 2011 - Band: Gad Zekes; Caller: Sarah Van Norstrand
- January 6, 2012 - Band: Great Bear Trio; Caller: Sarah Van Norstrand
- February 3, 2012 - Band: Great Bear Trio; Caller: Sarah Van Norstrand
- March 2, 2012 - Band: Harvey Nusbaum; Caller: Bob Nicholson
- October 5, 2012 – TBD
- November 2, 2012 – TBD
No partners are necessary. Low-heeled, comfortable shoes and a water bottle are recommended.
Cost: $7 general admission; $6 Music Hall members & Seniors (65+); $5 students; $20 family (or groups of 4 or more); children under 5 free
More about contra dancing…
(Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html)
What to expect at your first dance:
“Contra dancing is easy to learn. It’s so easy to learn that you don’t take lessons. Just show up at a dance and by the end of the first night you’ll have learned all the dance moves and you will be able to enjoy the next dance even more. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. The age range is from kids to folks that have been around for a while. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere. The patterns of the dance can be a tad confusing at first but remember everyone had a first time and that other dancers will help you. Listen to the caller and the music and go with the flow of the dance.”
“Some people find they get dizzy at first. Looking directly at the person you are dancing with eliminates this sensation. For many, the music is what keeps them coming back as it is exciting and lively. People come to dance, hear the music, socialize and have a good time.”
What to wear:
“Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Wear non-street shoes to make sure the soles aren’t bringing grit onto the dance floor. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous so it’s important that you bring a smile.”
