The Albany Contra Dance is held every second and some fifth Fridays of the month, September – June, in the large ballroom of the Albany Elks Lodge, located at 25 S Allen St, Albany, NY. Dancing goes from 8PM-11PM.

Upcoming Dance Details: 

Friday, September 11: The Stepping Stones: Robin Osgood (fiddle), Norman Rodham (guitar, bodhran, bones) and guest Alan Thomson (keyboard, recorder), with caller Quena Crain

The Stepping Stones are associated with the Melbourne and South Florida regional dances, and frequently perform for dance societies like the Gainesville Oldtime Dance Society and the Dance Flurry Organization. They play distinctive traditional melodies often collaborating with guest musicians.  Alan Thomson: From his “Nextdoor” profile – As a performer I play Classical, Jazz, and Folk styles to name a few, at many venues over the last 30 years including Capital Rep Theater, Steamer 10 Theater, Old Songs and Dance Flurry festivals, Midtown Tap, Tea Room and 677 Prime.  Quena Crain is a well-known New England-based dance leader, caller, and organizer specializing in contra, square, family, and community dances. She is famous for her infectious energy, warm presence, and easy teaching style. Her inclusive events appeal to all age groups, from young children and families to college students and older adults. She frequently utilizes gender-neutral role terms like “larks and robins” at dances.

Now is a great time to be a beginner!  Be sure to attend the 7:45 pre-dance Beginner Lesson where the dance caller will teach you some frequently used dance moves.  Contra dancing has its roots in English country dancing, and may feel similar to line dancing & square dancing.

The Albany Contra Dance uses the calling terms of “Larks & Robins” to denote dancing roles.  Masking for health safety is welcome, but not required.  This is a chem. free, family friendly, all welcoming dance community.