Annual Harvest Moon Contra Dance

Pay $20 at the door  6:30pm Sunday night Oct 12

(Register here to attend entire weekend, or to see info about the bands and callers)

TOPSPIN BAND: Topspin is a new band made up of veteran dance musicians. Long-time collaborators Anna Patton and Owen Morrison (Elixir, The Figments) have teamed up with two of their favorite instrumentalists to create a dynamic contra dance experience. Emily Troll’s (Anadama) powerful fiddling are adorned by Anna Patton’s nimble and inventive clarinet. Owen Morrison’s masterful guitar playing and Stefan Amidon’s (The Sweetback Sisters) superb drumming combine for uniquely danceable rhythmic drive. While each band member is at home in many styles of music, a contra dance allows them to converse in their native language, providing a sonic tapestry in which dancers can interweave themselves.

Anna Rain, from Maryland, is a well-known caller for English Country Dance, however for many years, Anna called contra dances and is now eager to get back to her roots. Victor Garza, our sound man, recognized her incredible calling talent and enthusiastically recommended her. She is known for her engaging calling style and for her ability to guide dancers through intricate moves with clear instructions and enthusiasm. Anna is frequently featured at events across the United States, particularly in the Washington D.C. area, where she is based.

The Gaslight Tinkers‘ blend of global rhythms creates a joyously danceable sound around a core of traditional New England old time and celtic fiddle music, merging boundless positive energy with melody and song. Since its formation in 2012 the band has lit up the East Coast, the West Coast, and the Caribbean, headlining clubs, dances, and major festivals. Playing what The Valley Advocate describes as “Music that consistently fizzes and pops with unexpected textures and turns,” The Gaslight Tinkers’ shows are packed with delightful surprises, elated crowds, and exuberant musicianship. The sound and energy of Clara, Garrett, Elie, and Peter are universally irresistible.

Rick Mohr, from Philadelphia, has enjoyed calling and writing contra dances for many years. His choreography has delighted dancers near and far, from local barn dances to dance weeks and weekends across North America. He says “My goal is always to make a fantastic experience for the dancers, so they really feel the joy of dance and music and community. That means planning programs that really shine, practicing clear calls and walkthroughs in advance, and creating a fun welcoming vibe.

Facility: Harvest Moon will be held entirely at the Carrillo Recreation Center located at 100 E. Carrillo St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101. The Historic Carrillo Ballroom is located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. This ballroom has a spring-loaded, maple floor, and it is one of the finest in the country for dancing.

The video is a past Harvest Moon Dance. Watch it

The Harvest Moon Dance Festival is brought to you by the Santa Barbara Country Dance Society & the City of Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation Department.