Let's all give old man winter the boot with a family Valentine's contra dance here at the Merville Hall.
On Feb. 18, the Funtime Fiddlers with Trent Freeman, will play for your dancing pleasure almost all night long.
With a stage full of musicians keeping a driving beat, caller June Cannon will have the moves mapped out for the dancers to follow so that the hall will be a merry place indeed.
There will be a contra dance workshop right before the dance. From 6:45 to 7:15 p.m., Cannon will introduce the dancers to new moves as well as teach the basic moves. This workshop is free of charge.
At 7:30 p.m., the Funtime Fiddlers start the music and the dancing begins. Single dancers are welcome as they can pair up with anyone during the contras and our contra sets last about 15 to 20 minutes per dance.
Contra dancing is a style of folk dance in which the dancers form a set of two parallel lines which run the length of the hall. Many of the basic moves in contra dancing are similar to those in square dancing (swings, promenades, dos-à-dos, allemandes).
The difference is that the dancers progress up or down the line eventually dancing with every other couple in the line.
We will also have polkas, waltzes and reels; jigs and swing; schottisches and foxtrots for your enjoyment in between the called contra dances.
With subdued lighting and cleverly arranged, heart shaped tables, the fiddle club tries to create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that all can thoroughly enjoy and participate in.
Doors open at 7:00 p.m., dance starts at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for youth and you can come as a family for $22.00. For more information, call 250- 339-4249.