New Community Dance Series Coming to Area

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Don’t think you’re much of a dancer? No problem. Before each dance an instructor teaches people how to do-si-do, allemande, and swing. Then a “caller” calls out each move in time to the music so dancers know what comes next.

The kick-off dance is Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. at the historic Old Rock Gym on the Hayesville schools campus. To protect the recently-refinished wood floor, bring soft-soled shoes such as tennis shoes. Parking is available next to the football field at 128 Yellow Jacket Drive.

All other dances in the series will be held at the new Elf School of the Arts at 982 Elf School Rd. near Lake Chatuge. Those dances are Nov. 24 and Dec. 1, 15, and 22. All dances will be 7-9 p.m.

People are welcome to come on their own, with a partner, or with the whole family. No experience or fancy clothing is needed. Folks are also invited to enjoy live music from local bands even if they don’t want to dance.

Bands The Wildflower Pickers and Paddy’s Return are performing lively tunes for the dances. Both groups regularly perform at the John C. Campbell Folk School.

Harrison Keely, a Brasstown-based dance caller who teaches barn dances for parties, weddings, and communities around the southeast, will call most of the dances. He is a regular on the John C. Campbell Folk School schedule.

“This is a fantastic way to have fun, enjoy live music, and make new friends,” Keely said. “Plus, dancing has so many health benefits for all ages.”

If you’re just trying it out, Keely has two tips: 1. Arrive early and jump in for the first few dances because that’s when all the basic steps are taught and dances are easiest. 2. Ask around for experienced folks to dance with (they’re the best teachers). Then dance with friends later in the night.

The Wildflower Pickers consist of Nathanial Bressler and Shawn Hardman, who are involved with the Junior Appalachian Musicians program, the Brasstown Morris Dancers, and the Folk School Cloggers. Paddy’s Return is comprised of Dawn Davis, David Bellino, Amanda Burts, Wendy Graham, J.T. Smith, and Brian Gatti. The group is well-known for its distinct Celtic energy.

Contra, square, and round dancing will be taught. A $5-15 donation is suggested to help pay the band and venue.