A long-time contra dancer and Seattle transplant, I've become known in the Pacific Northwest for my particular blend of humor and dance instruction. With contagious excitement, a warm cadence, and a cheerful personality, I strive to bring moments of magic into the lives of newcomers and veteran dancers alike. Contra has always held a special place in my heart and I try to share that love with every dance I visit.
Most of my calling is done in and around the Seattle area. You can view my upcoming calling schedule here. At the moment, with a few exceptions, I try not to plan my schedule out more than 6-7 months in advance.
In addition to calling contra dances, I've done a good amount of dance choreography in my spare time. Some of my dances have been called more than others, but I trust every dance I've introduced to deliver a fun and engaging experience, from four potatoes to the final phrase. My larger dance collection is available upon request and a larger selection of dances is also available on David Morse's ContraDB.
Here are a few personal favorites from my collection:
Last Hey
Formation: Becket, CWA1: Circle left 3/4
Rings balance, pass through
A2: Ladies allemande left 1.5x
Short waves balance
Partner allemande right 3/4
B1: Ladies L.S. full hey
B2: Partner balance / swing
Notes: Based on Paul Balliet's First Hey, but with a little more punch, pep,
and zest to go along with the switch to Becket.
Robin Shall Restore Amends
Formation: Dup ImpA1: Rings balance, PTR one place -> long waves, gents face out
Balance waves F/B, box circulate CW
A2: Balance waves F/B, box circulate CW
Balance waves R/L, slide right
B1: Partner balance / swing
B2: Circle left 3/4
Rings balance, pass through U/D
Notes: When teaching this one I make a point of identifying who is chasing
whom in the box circulate, otherwise dancers will often find
themselves a bit lost when they circulate away from their partner.
Three Klicks North
Formation: Becket, CWA1: Right and left through across
Circle left 3/4
Partner cali twirl
A2: Circle left 1/2
Neighbor swing
B1: LLFB
Gents mad robin
B2: Gents cross LS
Partner turn right shoulder, swing