Fairfield dance co-op welcomes beginners and veteran dancers alike

Fairfield Folk Arts & Dance Co-op provides a monthly opportunity for people of all ages, genders and abilities to experience the joys of dancing together.

It began in Fairfield in the late 1980s when Freida Gratzon moved to Fairfield from New Jersey and shared her passion for traditional international dance forms. Jennifer Hamilton joined the group, learned the dances and carried on when Freida retired.

Jennifer was most attracted to American Contra Dance and English Country Dancing and has shepherded a core group of dancers through the decades into the present iteration of monthly dances to live music attended by 20-60 folks. The group also hosts a dance weekend once a year which includes local dancers as well as attracting those from out of town.

The dances are not partnered, are multigenerational, and are simple to learn. Newcomers are always welcome. It is a sober event. There is a 30-minute refresher/beginners lesson at the start of the evening teaching the basic, simple forms for those who would like to participate.

Additionally, throughout the evening, as the dances change, the caller takes the entire group through the specific forms of each dance. If you’re not particularly fluid or able you can still participate because you’re helped by the group.

The purpose of these community dances is to uplift and bring joy. To do something joyful for oneself and with one another creates a nourishing environment, elevating the entire group’s individual and collective experience.

“This is what human beings have done together since time immemorial,” says Jennifer.

What music and dance do for the brain and for the heart is profound. Studies have shown that people who regularly engage in these activities tend to be healthier, live longer and have less stress. Dancing is a rejuvenative activity to which Jennifer attributes her sense of vigor and strength. Allison Stimson, a second generation member of the group, who grew up dancing alongside her parents, has experienced help with eye contact, motor coordination and deeply healing effects in dealing with chronic pain and tension.

The adult contra dances are held on the third Saturday of the month at Morning Star Studio, 51 ½ South Court Street in Fairfield and all are welcome, beginner and experienced dancers alike. The next dance is this coming Saturday, January 18, with the introduction at 7 p.m., dancing to Live Music of local band, the Fairtown Ramblers at 7:30. The fee is $7 for adults free for children under 14 who are already experienced contra dancers.

If you have questions or would like to learn more you can email: fairfolkdancers@gmail.com or visit the Fairfolk Contra & English Country Dancing Facebook page.