What’s New

In episode 30 of From the Mic, host Mary Wesley speaks with Jeremy Korr. Jeremy is a bicoastal caller, based in Southern California and Eastern Massachusetts. A second-generation dancer and dance leader, he has been calling children’s and family dances and international folk dances since 1993 and contras and squares since 2003. 

New in the Resource Portal for organizers! The Community Culture & Safety Toolkit is a comprehensive guide to help organizers develop the policies, procedures, and supporting documents needed to understand and facilitate safety in their communities. Topics include creating a statement of community values, code of conduct, and etiquette guidelines; establishing protocols for handling complaints and infractions; and evaluating the safety of a physical space. The toolkit also includes bonus guides on facilitating community meetings, role terminology, and managing chemical sensitivities.

We’re pleased to report that after several generous donations, including a final gift from the Cajolet family in memory of Ron “Cajy” Cajolet, the Anthony Barrand Research & Stewardship Fund is now complete and ready to be put to use!

Inspired by the life of Tony Barrand and his numerous contributions to the thriving morris, ritual, and song traditions on the continent, this fund provides financial support to the next generation of song and dance researchers. For more info, visit the Community Grants page.

Pete Sutherland was a beloved musician, songwriter, poet, artist, and teacher whose creative spirit radiated from his distinctive blend of roots music. The Endless Chain is a documentary being produced to take viewers on an intimate journey into Pete’s life and artistry.

The filmmakers are currently collecting photographs and video of Pete to include in the film. Pete was on staff at CDSS camps in 1991, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2007, and 2018. If you have images that you’re willing to share, please fill out the contact form describing the documentation that you have, and the filmmakers will get back to you quickly.

Lafayette Matthews introduces “Her Bright Smile Haunts Me Still,” as sung by Poor Old Horse. Lafayette says, “For such a short song, it packs a wallop of emotion and borderline-supernatural imagery.”

Cindy Kallet introduces “The Old Figurehead Carver,” with music by Dick Swain from a poem by Hiram Cody. In the song, the speaker reminisces about his favorite project: a figurehead for the clipper ship Marco Polo.

In episode 29 of From the Mic, host Mary Wesley speaks with Peter and Mary Alice Amidon. The Amidons have been immersed in traditional dance and song since 1975.

We are helping to connect donors with dance and music community members who have been directly affected by natural disasters. If you are one of those affected, please fill out this form to be included in the list. If you are fortunate enough to be able to help, read their stories and send your support.

Succession Planning for Dance Organizations
Thursday, December 5, 2024

We held a panel discussion in which dance organizers shared their experiences with leadership and volunteer changes in their local groups. View the slides, video, and transcript.

Jeff Gillett introduces “The Unquiet Grave,” Child ballad number 78. In most versions, the dead lover is male and there is a suggestion of violent death as he “lies slain.” This version has a female lover who is simply dead and buried.

Save the dates for the celebrations of our 2025 CDSS Lifetime Contribution Award winners:

• John Roberts
  May 10, 2025, Schenectady, NY
  RSVP

• David Surette
  October 19, 2025, Concord, NH

• Tony Parkes
  November 22, 2025, Concord, MA

Pete Coe helps us get ready to “Bring the New Year In.” The song carries on the English tradition of mummers’ plays, which have been performed at Christmas since the 17th century.