Details

Lake Effect is in the forecast for a winter evening contra dance. All dances are taught and called by Dan Kappus, a genial and experienced caller visiting from Knoxville, Tennessee.

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. If you like, come early for an introduction to contra elements at 7:00.

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

Dan Kappus head shot

Dan Kappus

Across three decades of participation, contra dancing has been a great community for me wherever I’ve gone. I teach and lead dances because I want that community to be there for others. After a decade of occasional calling at special events and open mic nights, I started to regularly call full nights in 2021. I care about choreography and, of course, fun! I’ve called dances from Northern California all the way to Asheville, with many points in between. The longest I ever drove to call a single night of dance was from Knoxville to Wichita. I still have a lot more to learn. I’m in awe of the great evolving beneficial tradition of which we are heirs.

Band

Lake Effect

Matt Sloboda (fiddle, mandolin, accordion, bouzuki), Chuck Abell (guitar), Catherine Sloboda (fiddle)

For nearly seven years, Lake Effect has been honing its sound while playing for dances and concerts both locally and in New England and along the Eastern Seaboard. Founded initially by Matt Sloboda and Chuck Abell, the band has grown to include Catherine Sloboda. With a shared vision that encompasses the best in folk, Celtic, swing, and World Music, the band has melded seamlessly into a unique ensemble which values both precision and musical variety.