Chattanooga Traditional Dance Society (CTDS) presents an English Country Dance and a New Year’s Contra Dance on Saturday, January 13 at Brainerd United Methodist Church’s Lundy Hall Gym, 4315 Brainerd Road in Chattanooga
The English Country Dance is part of a continuing group class, and will take place from 4-6 p.m. Admission is $5.
"English Country Dance is a beautiful, historical social dance that was popular from around 1650 through 1800. Movies based on Jane Austen novels such as 'Pride & Prejudice' or 'Emma,' feature scenes with English Country dancing at balls and parties," officials said.
The class starts with basic ECD moves, including: set and turn single, two hand turn, changes of rights and lefts, star across, back to back, figure eight and hey for three. The program includes dances from the historical and modern English Country Dance repertoire. Dances are taught and walked through with prompting and attention to detail and style.
"Everyone is welcome. No partner or previous experience is necessary. Nearly everyone is a beginner so no one will feel out of place. Please bring a separate pair of soft-soled shoes for dancing (sneakers or flats). Studies show that dancing helps protect our brains from aging. English Country Dance is wonderful exercise as well as a fun social experience. Join us," officials said.
The New Year's Contra Dance will be held from 7:30 to 11 p.m., with calling by Charlotte Crittenden and music by The Mountain Creek Boys. Admission is $8; $5 for students and seniors.
"Everyone is invited to join our welcoming, family-friendly community and enjoy this lively, traditional social dance. No need to bring a partner. All dances are taught in walk-throughs. Toe-tapping live music makes even sitting out enjoyable," officials said. "Contra dancing is fun, aerobic exercise. Wear comfortable, casual clothes and bring a separate pair of clean, soft-soled shoes for dancing. Boots or shoes with hard heels are not allowed on the dance floor.
"There is always a Contra Basics lesson for newcomers at 7:30 p.m., so plan to arrive early."
The Chattanooga Traditional Dance Society has been sponsoring contra dances for over 20 years.