Contra dance is a type of folk dance where parallel lines of dancers begin the dance by standing opposite or ‘contra to’ another line.  Sometimes referred to as Appalachian folk dance or New England folk dance, it has roots in 17th century English, Scottish and French dancing & has been influenced by African dancing as well. 

A caller leads the dancers through a series of moves and the sequence repeats itself. There’s no real footwork; it’s more like walking to music.  While most dancers want to learn the progression of moves, the focus is not on perfection but to have fun.  Lots of smiles, laughter & friendly encounters are all part of this dance experience. 

The music is usually live with and includes a fiddle and other stringed instruments such as guitar, mandolin, banjo or bass.  A keyboard, drums and brass instruments may also be a part of the mix.  The lively, infectious rhythms draw you in & even people who say that can’t dance find themselves moving to the contra flow. 

While the lines of dancers are formed by couples, it is not necessary to arrive at the dance event with a partner because it’s customary for dancers to find different partners for each dance.  Contra dancing appeals to all ages & is family friendly.