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It's true, it was the very last dance in the sheffield contra series ... When: Saturday 9 Dec 2006, 8 p.m. Where: It was at St Andrews Hall, St Andrew's United Reformed Church Hall, Upper Hanover Street, Sheffield S10 2FQ How Much? It wasn't much and we can't remember exactly. Who's the band? It was Ian and Charley. While you're here, check out Ian and Charley's band Vertical Expression's new website with info about upcoming events. Who's the caller? It was Elmo again. What's there to drink? Water. Bring a bottle if you want something else. *What's Contra? Sometimes called American Contra Dancing, it's what became of English/Scottish/Irish/Welsh social dancing when it went with the emmigrants to North America and then evolved a distinct style of its own. Heavily influenced by the low, slithery movements of French traditional dancing, and later by the energetic twisting and twirling of Swing dance, contra combines the familiar figures of ceilidh or barn dancing in smooth, flowing sequences with the improvisational element of Swing to produce an energetic, fun, social dance form that's easy to learn. I've never done this before... Not to worry. Anyone who's interested in social folk dancing is very welcome. You don't need to bring a partner, there will be loads to choose from. Each dance is first taught by the caller and then called continuously as it is danced. If you're new to folk dancing in general, you may want to ask somebody more experienced to dance the first one with you, as they will help push you in the right direction.
Well.... there are none. I'd like to thank the folks who've supported the series and the fabulous musicians who've played for us. It's sad to see it go, and lets all hope there's more contra to come, from somewhere. If there is someone willing to find and organise suitable venues, then we would love to hear from you.
Grace Jackson - 01663 734660 Or sign up to the Contra Corner mailing list and receive regular updates on all the contra going on in the country: click here and follow the instructions. |
