Details
Pianist Alex Fortier joins with Oliver Scanlon for the first time in Rochester. We’re excited to see what these two powerhouse musicians will bring. All dances are taught and called by our own Margaret Mathews.
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
Margaret Mathews
With more than 35 years experience as dancer, musician and caller, Margaret’s easy-going, engaging style gets everyone out on the dance floor. Her ability to smoothly adjust the dances to the experience level of the dance community make it a fun and accessible evening for everyone. In addition to contra dances, she calls for traditional Old Time square dances, Civil War reenactments, hoedowns, weddings and other joy filled occasions. Her dance calling has taken her up and down the East coast, from the Carolinas to Vermont, as well as the Northwest and Canada. When not calling, Margaret plays bass in Wild Root String Band, a Southern Old Time band.
Bands
Alex Fortier
Oliver Scanlon
Oliver Scanlon (fiddle)
A soulful fiddler, mandolinist and spellbinding tunesmith, Oliver Scanlon co-founded in 2013 Pete’s Posse with Pete Sutherland and Tristan Henderson. Oliver played with Pete’s Posse for hundreds of contradances, concerts and festivals for their nine years as a trio, releasing eight recording projects along the way! Now based in Syracuse, NY, Oliver plays with Stove Dragon and gives music lessons.