Details
Join us for an exhilarating contra dance night as John Ryan brings his accordion to join Ballingary for great Irish tunes. Colleen Mahoney teaches Irish set dances at 6:00 and Bob Nicholson teaches contra after.
All Dances Taught – Our caller, Bob Nicholson has years of experience calling contras for all kinds of musical styles. Bob has a deep understanding of the dance and empathic un
Experience the magic of contra dancing, where all are welcome, and no partner or experience is necessary. Bring your friends, family, and fellow dance enthusiasts for a night of lively music, connection, and community.
- Colleen Mahoney teaches Irish Set dancing starting at 6:00 pm;
- Introduction to contra dance at 7:00;
- Contra 7:30 – 10:00 pm.
We have a sliding scale admission policy, with a target of $12. Pay more if you can, less if you can’t – come dance!
Caller
![](https://cdrochester.org/CDR/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/bob_nicholson.jpeg)
Bob Nicholson
Bob is a veteran caller from Syracuse. He’s totally focussed on fun, accessible dances. His dance repertoire is deep and his memory is amazing. A versatile caller, Bob handles both Contra and English Country dances with ease, and events from advanced to weddings to introductory workshops.
Band
![Ballingarry is Ben Hockenberry, Ben Goehring and Ella Powers.](https://cdrochester.org/CDR/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Ballingarry-400.png)
Ballingarry
Ben Hockenberry (banjo, mandolin, whistle, percussion), Ella Powers (fiddle), Ben Goehring (fiddle, concertina, whistle)
Ballingarry, based in Rochester NY’s vibrant Irish music community, brings high-energy dance music to contra with a foot-stomping blend of improvisation and tradition. They include veterans of The Bobbens, Rós Gorm, Foxtown, and the Tom Finucane, An gCarraig, and Drumlin Ceili Bands. They’re always excited to play for dance!
Performs for: Contra, Irish, Scottish