Wonder what Contra Dance is all about?
Watch this example from our 2010 dance weekend:
Watch this little animation or visit What is Contra Dance to learn more. Or come to our dances and see! No partner, costume, or fancy footwork needed. We always dance to live music. We have a short lesson beforehand (6:45pm) that will teach you the essentials - don't be shy - it's easy! All ages welcome.
In addition to special events, we organize two series of dances in Lawrence, Kansas:
Community Dances (mostly contra)
Cost: Usually Adult $8, Student $3 Time: 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. When: May 18, June 15, July 20, August 17
(Usually Third Saturdays monthly.) Where: Usually New York School, 936 New York Street
*(special price and location in May)
Join us at 6:45 (sharp!) before regular dances for a Contradance Basics
Workshop: Learn the basic steps and movement patterns you will be using
that evening. Even if you can't attend the workshops, beginners are always
welcome. Please come early in the evening as we begin with comfortable dances
for newcomers.
Bloo Moon Advanced DancesCost: Adult $8, Student $3 Time: 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. When: June 29, August 31
(Fifth Saturdays of the month.)
Where: Usually New York School, 936 New York Street
Are you ready for an advanced dance? Are you comfortable with contra corners, heys for fours, and can you keep the dance going after the caller has stopped calling? Advanced dances are held on the fifth Saturday when months have them, and feature faster, more complex dances with minimal walkthroughs and no beginner instruction. Beginners, please come to our beginner-friendly regular (third Saturday) dances first.
General Notes:
No Partner Necessary. Please wear soft-soled shoes!
All dances are taught and prompted and feature live music.
Dress cool and casual - dancing is energetic activity!
Community Friendly:
Most dancers switch partners throughout the evening.
Please be sure to dance with newcomers as well as
your friends. Look for folks sitting out on the sides
who haven't had a chance to dance. They'll be happy you did!
Spring / Summer 2013 LBDA Dances
May 18
Saturday
Community Dance at Stony Point Barn, 1514 N 600 Rd Get a map... 6:00 p.m. Potluck 6:45 p.m. Beginner's Lesson
7:30-10:30 p.m. Dance ($10 donation suggested for this special location)
Caller: Otis Watson
Music: Dire Ducks and Friends
June 15
Saturday
Community Dance at New York School, 936 New York Street
6:45 p.m. Beginner's Lesson, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Dance
Caller: Christa Torrens
Music: The Atchison Family Band (Bob & Melissa Atchison, Alice Boyle, Robert Rosenberg)
June 29
Saturday
Bloo Moon Advanced Dance at New York School, 936 New York Street
7:30-10:30 p.m. Dance $8 ($3 student)
Caller: Jerome Grisanti
Music: Three Bean Salad (Dayle Dryer-Black, Mike Black, Mike Yoder)
July 20
Saturday
Community Dance at New York School, 936 New York Street
6:45 p.m. Beginner's Lesson, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Dance
Caller: Terry Rouse
Music: Three Bean Salad (Dayle Dryer-Black, Mike Black, Mike Yoder)
August 17
Saturday
Community Dance at New York School, 936 New York Street
6:45 p.m. Beginner's Lesson, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Dance
Caller: Lisa Harris
Music: Spencer and Rain
August 31
Saturday
Bloo Moon Advanced Dance at New York School, 936 New York Street
7:30-10:30 p.m. Dance $8 ($3 student)
Caller: Jill Allen
Music: The Euphoria Stringband
(Reva Friedman, Pat Dickey, Richelle Basgall, Dick Powers, Pete Gilbreath)
Shape Note (Sacred Harp) singing in the Northeast Kansas area.
This singing is to music as contra dance is to dance – community-centered.
More info at www.kawshapenote.org.
Help celebrate 30 years of LBDA dances:
If you have a fond recollection or favorite moment from a past LBDA
dance, jot it down and email it to: .
See what some people have shared...
