North Berkshire Contra Dance returns to Williamstown on Saturday, September 28th, with a lively community contra dance taught by caller Jeff Walker, and energetic, New England-style fiddle music.

Contra dancing is the contemporary face of a living tradition; some of the dances are hundreds of years old, some are recently composed. Jeff’s hallmark clear instructions and infectious enthusiasm combine with the band’s high-energy music to create an unforgettable evening of dancing just right for the level of experience of the crowd. Everyone is welcome. New dancers and families with children are encouraged to arrive at 7:30 for an introductory lesson. Come with or without a partner; most people change partners for each dance throughout the evening.

Kathy and Jeff Walker have been playing New England-style dance music for over 40 years.  Kathy plays fiddle and Jeff accompanies her on guitar and calls. Their repertoire spans the Celtic world drawing tunes from Ireland, Scotland, Galicia, French Canada, Cape Breton, and Appalachia, and includes many kinds of dance music from fast, energetic jigs and reels to slow, beautiful waltzes.

The dance will run 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. in the Community Hall of the First Congregational Church, 906 Main St., Williamstown. Admission is pay-as-you-can, $12 – $20 suggested. Jeff will use “gents and ladies” role terms. Visit www.NorthBerkshireDance.org for more information.

Covid Policy: Please stay home if you feel unwell (then come next month!) Masking is welcome, but not required.  Be aware that contradance isn’t made to social distance, as whoever your partner, you’ll wind up dancing with everyone in the room. Bring a spare mask to change into, for comfort throughout the evening.

Poster: Help more people find the dance, if you feel so inclined. Print and hang our flier!  Available at  https://northberkshiredance.org/poster/