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For nearly 70 years, the Berea College Country Dancers have been
performing and leading workshops regionally, nationally, and internationally,
bringing dances of Europe and the Appalachian region to exuberant
audiences, and sharing the joy of dancing. The group has toured
Denmark, England, Japan, and Central America, as well as much of
the United States. Visits to a school or community may last a day,
a week, or longer. For example, in 1999, the Country Dancers conducted
a week-long residency in a Minnesota school system. The Country
Dancers are currently preparing for a tour to Mexico in June, 2006.
- The Country Dancers offer a program demonstrating similarities
between local dances and their European counterparts:
- English Country
Dances and American Contra Dances are organized so that everyone
has the opportunity to dance with everyone else,
helping to build an atmosphere of cooperation.
- These dances contrast
with the Turning Waltz in the European style of the 1870’s,
in which the dancers move only as a couple, demonstrating their
skill with leaps, lifts, and turns.
- Morris and sword dances from
the British Isles date from the fifteenth century. With clacking
sticks and ringing bells, they harken back
to festivals welcoming the change of the seasons.
- Dances from Denmark
reflect the energetic and very sociable Danish culture.
- And of
course, old time Appalachian square dance and clogging show
the heritage of the region in which we reside.
Currently, twenty-six dancers, men and women, comprise the Berea
College Country Dancers. All are full time students from many disciplines
who dedicate themselves to dancing and
sharing dance with others.
Live music by professional musicians is one of the joys of Country
Dancer performances and workshops.
Danish American Exchange representative Alex Pedersen joins the
Country Dancers on their visits, leading workshops in Danish Rhythmic
Gymnastics and non-competitive sport. He is available for discussions
on Danish culture, history, lifestyle, and education with students,
educators, and community members.
The Country Dancer program focuses
on the National Dance Standards through dance, history, and culture.
The Country Dancers offer:
- Assembly programs
- Workshops for students of all ages
- Formal performances
- Community dances for school and community organizations
We would
be delighted to be a part of your community.
Additional Information
For information, contact:
Susan Spalding, Director or
Jenna Holmes, Leader
Berea College (859)985-3142
CPO 2159 (859)985-3919 (fax)
Berea, Kentucky 40404
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