Contra dancers in Chattanooga and Sewanee, Tenn., will be in motion this weekend.
Contra dances are based on Old English and New England country dancing, with some aspects of American square dancing blended in. Live bands offer a mix of Irish, Celtic, Old English, early American and modern “traditional” tunes. A caller cues the steps, which include allemandes, do-si-dos and swings.
Dancers of all experience levels are welcome. Dances are walked through before they’re danced, and instruction is always a part of the evening. Neither are partners necessary to join.
* Sewanee: Tonight is the first contra dance of the fall season in Sewanee. The fun starts at 7:30 p.m. CDT in the Women’s Center on Mississippi Avenue on the University of the South campus. Live music, instruction and free refreshments will be part of the evening, according to a news release. Admission is $7 for nonmembers, $5 for members, $3 for students. Call 931-598-5327 for more information.
* Chattanooga: Seth Tepfer will be the caller and Ed & Elsie will be the band for the Chattanooga Traditional Dance Society’s bimonthly dance, scheduled 8-11 p.m. Saturday at All Saints Academy, 310 E. Eighth St. Beginners can come early, at 7:30 p.m., for an introduction to the steps. Cost is $8 for adults, $5 for students. For more information, visit www.contranooga.org.