Loading...What a space! On January 28 the wooden rafters of St. John's, Lancaster, auditorium absolutely rocked to
sound of live Irish music.
More than 50 youth - ages 13 and up - with some adults in tow, moved to live sound – and caught on quickly to a kind of dancing called "contra." Some had been at St. John's before – this was the Fifth Annual Youth Dance. Some were new to the place and certainly new to contradancing. Some were a bit suspicious about a name they associate with Central America resistance. No connection. So, at first, tentative, the tide turned, even for the shy. A number of young persons - a troupe of kids who recently demonstrated square dancing at the Farm Show - took to the figures fast. Something like square dance, contradancing predates it. Given its variation, it is no surprise contradancing is big in college towns, East Coast and throughout the country.
Back to the story … Youth groups showed up at St. John's, some kids came alone, some with a friend, or even with a grandparent. The adults were sprinkled among the beginners learning basics – quite simple, uncomplicated execution of calls. "Calls" are instructions that are continuous, guiding a sequence of steps throughout every set. Did I say execute? Fear dissipated quickly as the moving web of smiles and laughter wove into a predictable pattern. Well, not a seamless pattern. And there was the fun! When "stitches" were dropped, participants were "in stitches" as they linked, swung, and circled with partners and "neighbors" up and down the hall. The crowd could not have been friendlier. All were encouraged to mix. Though not required, almost all were finding new and different configuration of partners with each dance start.
St. John's hosts this hands-down endorphins-up event. Quakers provide insurance, funds and refreshments. The Lancaster Traditional Dance Society helps with the cost of the band. Shane Knudsen, a favorite caller, donates his time and teaching! St. John's donates the hall and lends friendly adult presence (thanks, Michael Stank! Michael is on board as the parish's liaison to community). The participation of the faith communities is instrumental in the kids' experience of an affordable (free!), safe, and fun evening. This appreciation noted, it is really the kids' on-the-spot hospitality and collaboration that make the thing work!
St. John's advertised to clergy of local congregations and to our diocesan web of Episcopal parishes to get word out about this interchurch outreach activity. Suggestions on how to promote this fabulous wholesome youth venue are welcome! Showing up probably best sells it.
If you would like to taste-test contradancing yourself – do! The Lancaster Traditional Society is on location at St. John's each third Saturday of the month (and at the County Park in the warmer weather). All ages are welcome. Admission ($8 adults, $5 students, and under 15 free) covers the non-profit dance's expenses and provides a small prudent reserve (for financial cushion, updating sound equipment, etc.) Each month features a different band sound and caller. The website: lancastercontra.org. Beginners starts at 7:15. Dancing is 8-11pm. You don't need a partner. See you there!
