What we’re about
Contra Dances are open to all who want to have fun dancing. No experience, partner, or costume is required. Contra dance is the country dance brought here by English settlers, that brought whole communities together on Saturday nights. It’s constantly being updated with new arrangements of live music in genres ranging from Appalachian to Irish, a little bit of swing, and more. A caller teaches every dance. These dances feature New England and Mid-Western contras as well as occasional old and new Southern and Eastern squares and circles. Beginners should arrive at 7.30 pm for instruction. Dances are more challenging later in the evening. All dancers are encouraged to dance with different partners, to share skills and gain expertise; besides, you'll have more fun! All ages welcome! Wear light clothing and comfortable non-marking shoes.
COVID protocol: We currently require high-quality masks to be worn at our dances.
NOTE: This meetup includes dances at two locations which will be noted in the announcements.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Contra dance with us August 24!Clinton Heights Lutheran Church, Columbus, OH
Caller: TBA
Band: Trillium
NOTE: Since the All Soles August dance was cancelled, we are holding an August Big Scioty dance this year.Big Scioty Contra Dance
returning to our old location
Clinton Heights Lutheran Church 15 Clinton Heights Ave, Columbus, OH 43202WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing!
Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor.
Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner.
Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot.
For more information contact me or check out our website: www.bigscioty.com
Please bring your own refillable water bottle.
- Contra dance with us September 7!Clinton Heights Lutheran Church, Columbus, OH
Caller: Margaret Goodman
Band: The BrickersonsBig Scioty Contra Dance
returning to our old location
Clinton Heights Lutheran Church 15 Clinton Heights Ave, Columbus, OH 43202WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing!
Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor.
Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner.
Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot.
For more information contact me or check out our website: www.bigscioty.com
Please bring your own refillable water bottle.
