Eric comes to us from Seattle and has been calling dances since 1995 in Northern California for nine years, then on to Colorado and now the Pacific Northwest. Eric says, "One of the most rewarding aspects of calling for me is the interaction and rapport with the band and dancers. Contra dancing is a great social connection and each dance feels like a room full of friends!" When he’s not dancing, calling, or jamming, he enjoys hiking, backpacking, traveling, and flying. Eric is a mechanical engineer, specializing in manufacturing.

Full Moon, a four-piece contra band based in Portland plays a lively mix of New England, Southern, Quebecois and Irish tunes to lift and energize the dancers. The band consists of Gordy Euler on fiddle, whistle and piano, Janet Goulston on concertina and banjo, Dave Hamlin on mandolin and fiddle and Fran Slefer on piano, fiddle and button accordion.

Contra dancing consists of familiar square dance type moves done in longways sets. It is fun and people of all ages find it easy to learn. This dance features live calling and live music that is absolutely energizing and, while fairly fast moving, is very forgiving. An American traditional dance form that originated from English and French roots in the 1600’s, contra dance thrived through the early 1900’s, survived in small pockets of the northeast, resurfaced in the 1950’s and by the 1970’s had experienced a renaissance, spreading across the country and growing in popularity. It is traditional to have a waltz just before intermission and again at the end of the dance.

Contra dancing is an excellent way to unite both friends and strangers in a lighthearted, FUN, and engaging manner. If you've never danced before, a Country Dance is a great way to start. Come at 7:30 p.m. to learn the basics; after that each dance is cleary explained in turn.

All ages, singles, couples and families are welcome. Admission is $8 (or pay what you can). Escorted children younger than 12 are admitted free.

To learn more about contra dancing click on:
An Introduction to Contra Dancing
Wikipedia: Contra Dance Choreography
Some Swing Positions
YouTube - contra dance
YouTube - Contra Dance Basics - 9 chapters
YouTube - Dancing Contras - a 10 minute instructional clip

Light-weight leather-soled dress shoes are highly recommended for dancing on wood. It is also a good idea to dress in layers and bring a water bottle.

The dance is an alcohol- and smoke-free event sponsored by the Netel Grange. Refreshments are available.

To find your way to the dance zoom in and out and scroll in all directions on the map below.
 

Five Netel Grange Country Dances are scheduled for this season on the third Saturday of October and November in the Fall and again come Spring in March, April and May. The season's calendar may be viewed here.

The Netel Grange meets monthly on the third Saturday at 7 p.m. If you are interested in learning about Netel Grange activities and helping us achieve our goals you are welcome to attend.

The Netel Grange is a part of one of America's foremost grassroots, volunteer organizations. The Grange is comprised of families and individuals who share common interests in community and cooperation. Each individual Grange reflects the interests and talents of its members.