April 5 – 7, 2024
We had two great bands: GENTICORUM is Pascal Gemme (fiddle), Yann Falquet (guitar), and Nicholas Williams (flute, accordion). This legendary trio from Quebec hadn’t been on a contra stage in California since 2017 and we were thrilled that they agreed make the trek to join us. THE FREE RAISINS is Audrey Jaber on fiddle, Jeff Kaufman on mandolin, brass, foot percussion, and Amy Englesberg on piano and accordion. A favorite at contra weekends across the country, we delighted in their skilled, dynamic, and fun performances. Gender-neutral calling was expertly provided by SETH TEPFER from Atlanta and ALEXANDRA DEIS-LAUBY from New York City.
LOCATION: Strawberry Recreation Center, 118 E Strawberry Dr, Mill Valley, CA 94941
COVID POLICY: Masks and vaccinations are optional. Same-day testing is required. More details on registration page.
REGISTRATION FEES:
- Adult ($185)
- Youth ($125 – for ages 30 and under)
- Work-Trade ($90; we will contact you about availability)
- As of March 15, you can register for single days ($65) or evenings ($40).
If you cannot do work trade and need a limited income scholarship, indicate that on the registration form, and we will contact you.
SCHEDULE (download PDF)
FRIDAY
6:00 Hall Opens
7:00-8:15 Contra Dance with GENTICORUM & ALEXANDRA DEIS-LAUBY
8:15-8:45 Break
8:45-10:00 Contra Dance with FREE RAISINS & SETH TEPFER
SATURDAY
9:00 Hall Opens for Enhanced Continental Breakfast
9:30-10:00 Couple Dancing with GENTICORUM
10:00-12:00 Contra Dance with GENTICORUM & SETH
12-12:15 Break
12:15 -12:45 Concert with GENTICORUM
12:45-2:00 LUNCH AT THE HALL (1.25 hrs)
2:00-2:45 Tectonic Medley with GENTICORUM, FREE RAISINS, & BOTH CALLERS
2:45-3:00 Break
3:00-5:00 Contra Dance with FREE RAISINS & ALEXANDRA
5:00-6:30 DINNER ON YOUR OWN (1.5 hrs)
6:30-7:00 Waltzing with FREE RAISINS
7:00-8:15 Contra Dance with FREE RAISINS & ALEXANDRA
8:15-8:45 Special Dessert Break
8:45-10:00 Contra Dance with GENTICORUM & SETH
SUNDAY
9:00 Hall Opens for Enhanced Continental Breakfast
9:30-10:00 Couple Dancing with FREE RAISINS
10:00-12:30 Contra Dance with FREE RAISINS & SETH
12:30-1:45 LUNCH AT THE HALL (1.25 hrs)
1:45-4:15 Contra Dance with GENTICORUM & ALEXANDRA
4:15-4:30 Break
4:30-5:15 Not to be Eclipsed Contras with BOTH BANDS & BOTH CALLERS
- Note that we’re not having a Sunday evening session; sign up for single days/evenings instead!
FOOD: Brenda Goodwin headed up the food service this weekend with a variety of tasty and healthy snacks throughout the weekend. Lunch was provided on Saturday and Sunday. Consult this list of local restaurants for other meals.
CANCELLATION: Cancellations are subject to a $20 processing fee. After March 15, 2024 the full fee will be retained unless we are able to fill your place.
ACCOMMODATIONS and CARPOOLS: We have a Facebook event page for dancers wishing to arrange shared housing and/or carpools. We make every effort to find housing for out-of-town dancers if requested. We appreciate locals offering hospitality to traveling dancers – it’s a wonderful way to expand your network of dance friends. List of nearby motels.