"Eighteen strings that will make you dance..." the Steeltones from Portland bring high-energy contra tunes to Astoria. Featured are Keith Moe (fiddle), Dave Hamlin (mandolin) and Jon Neff (guitar).

Contra dancing combines about a dozen basic square dance moves with others such as balance & swing and petronella turn to make some very interesting dances. Instead of forming squares of eight, any number of couples form long lines up and down the hall. A couple will dance with a neighboring couple for about 30 seconds and then will progress to another couple for 30 seconds; this is repeated down the hall until the end of the line is reached whereupon the direction changes and progression is now up the hall -- in this manner one dances with nearly everyone in the hall. It is a contra dance tradition to dance each dance with a different partner. Ladies may ask men to dance and vice versa. People of all ages find it easy to learn. Live calling and live music is featured. Typically a waltz is danced just before intermission and again at the conclusion 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 Contra 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 shoes are recommended for dancing on wood.
It is a good idea to dress in layers and bring a water bottle.
Fine fragrances are — well fine!

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.
 

Four Netel Grange Country Dances are scheduled for 2011 on the third Saturday of April and May in the Spring and again come Fall in September and October.

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 coöperation. Each individual Grange reflects the interests and talents of its members.