Throughout the workshop we will discuss and practice everything related to calling traditional Appalachian square dances that time allows for. Topics to be discussed and practiced: American folk dance history, teaching/dance instruction techniques, patter (rhyming schemes), dance format/organization/composition, organizing a community dance, basics of calling 101, accessibility, characteristics of squares vs. contras, improvisation, hands on calling practice, building confidence, and working with bands. Each person will learn to call in a friendly group setting and then helped in whatever capacity necessary to call. After you can call 1 dance you are official. It will be liberating to have a dance or two under your belt. Dancers who are not interested in calling also are encouraged to attend as we will be dancing throughout most of the workshop. Literature and notes will be supplied to the attendees for reminders of dances and calls learned during the program.
T-Claw grew up in Nashville, Tennessee playing punk and jazz. Spurred by his hometown fiddlin’ friends, he moved to the Northwest and fell into a vibrant old time music community. First he picked up banjo, then fiddle, then everything else. Calling came intuitively after years of playing and organizing. He can be seen getting strangers to have a grand ol’ time in unusual surroundings. Over the last couple years, T has been steadfastly touring the Southeast and Midwest to play and call dances, stimulating interest in towns that no longer have old school square dancing. Aside from calling at most of the country’s currently active dances, he’s called at festivals including Dare to Be Square, Morehead, Clifftop, Augusta Dance Week, Seattle Folklife, Portland Gathering and The Black Fly Ball. He can call for beginners as well as seasoned dancers, keeping moves suitable for the crowd. T-Claw focuses on accessible yet fun traditional style Southern figures. Hold fast and never let go!
Saturday, November 3rd, 4:00pm-5:00pm
Rose Bowl
Free