---
events:
  - name: "Swingin' Tern 41st Anniversary Contra Dance"
    details: "Our contra dances are held every first and third Saturday evening year-round from 7:30pm–10:30pm, with a beginners’ workshop at 7pm. We have occasional double dances along with a New Year’s Eve dance. \n$15 adults/$5 students \nCaller: Bob Isaacs & Friends\nIn addition to his calling, Bob Isaacs has been passing on his knowledge to fledgling callers. This anniversary dance will feature the calling of some of Bob’s proteges, his own calling, and other established callers. Bob is known for his clear, concise instructions. He is a prolific contra choreographer—his creative dances are called throughout the country. \nBand: The Star Charters\nThe Star Charters features Cecilia Vacanti on fiddle, Jess Newman on fiddle, and Mark Price on guitar. Cecilia is one-half of the band Kingfisher. Jess and Mark play together as the band Cojiro. Coming to us from the Boston area, all three will be playing their own tunes along with traditional material. Get ready to dance! \nUseful Information:\n\nNewcomers are welcome to come at 7pm for an introductory lesson on the basics of contra dancing. No partner is necessary. All dances are taught with a “walk-through” by the caller.\nWe no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.\nAll dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins. Dance whatever role you’re comfortable in.\nWe are air-conditioned. We have windows on three sides when we want to let the breeze come in.\nOur dance is two blocks from the Chatham station on the Morris/Essex line out of Penn Station, NYC.\nWe welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.\nPlease bring your own water bottle. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.\nWear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.\nWe are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!"
    links:
      - "https://folkproject.org/swingin-tern/"
      - "https://cdss.org/event/swingin-tern-41st-anniversary-contra-dance-bob-isaacs-friends-with-the-star-charters/"
    start: "2025-01-04T19:00:00-05:00"
    end: "2025-01-04T22:30:00-05:00"
    country: USA
    state: NJ
    city: Chatham
    styles:
      - contra
    workshop: true
    social: true
    bands:
      - The Star Charters
    callers:
      - Bob Isaacs
    price: $5-$15
    organisation: "Swingin' Tern Dances"
    source: events/usa/cdss.yaml