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We connect and support people in building and sustaining vibrant communities through participatory dance, music, and song. We steward the living traditions of English country dance, contra and square dance, morris and sword dance, and the music that is an integral part of these traditions. Learn more
What’s New
From the Mic Episode 24: Rick Mohr
This episode of From the Mic features Rick Mohr. Rick’s calling and choreography have delighted dancers for decades, 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.”
Welcome New Director of Development!
We are thrilled to announce the new CDSS Director of Development, Charmaine Slaven!
May 2024 Song of the Month
Dave Para introduces “Seth Davy” by Glyn Hughes, also known as “Come Day, Go Day” or “Whiskey on a Sunday.” Seth Davy was a Jamaican sailor who entertained children on the streets of Liverpool around the turn of the 20th century.
From the Mic Episode 23: Cis Hinkle
The latest guest on From the Mic is Cis Hinkle. Cis has delighted contra and square dancers since 1985 with her skilled teaching, welcoming manner, playful enthusiasm and masterful selection of dances. She talks with Mary about the first time she stumbled into a contra dance in her native Atlanta; shares how she overcame stage fright and began calling all over the world; and brings us right up to her most recent pursuit, learning to call modern western squares.
From the Mic Episode 22: David Millstone
Mary’s guest on this episode of From the Mic is David Millstone. David started contra dancing with Dudley Laufman in the early 1970s and has been calling dances for forty-five years: contras old and new, squares from different regional traditions, English country dances, and plenty of family-friendly events.
Affiliate renewals are now open!
Your current Affiliate Membership, insurance, and 501c3 status will expire on May 1st, so remember to renew as soon as possible. Renew now, or see instructions for renewing as an Affiliate.
In our history, CDSS has…
fostered 109 years of tradition
sold well over 50,000 morris bells
bestowed 31 Lifetime Contribution Awards
published 114 hours of podcasts
In the past year, CDSS has…
awarded 34 grants for local communities and special projects
added over 60 repertoire resources for callers
published over 600 calendar events
hosted over 1,093 campers
Upcoming Community Events