Danforth Avenue, in the area called Greektown, is host each April to a Contra Dance Festival called Spring Thaw. The immediate question, of course is "what is contra dancing?". To many the first image is that of the dance performed by Oliver North in front of the Iran-Contra Senate investigating committee...actually not bad but no relationship to this event.
Actually, contra dancing is somewhat difficult to define...so much so that a web page,
What Is Contra Dance?, has been created to try. The best definition seems to be the first of six attempts which says, "The only real answer to the question 'What is contra dance?' comes when you try it." For sure it's great fun for very nearly everyone except the terminally "up-tight".
You will always find live music, lots of sweaty people of all ages and all political, cultural and social persuasions. You don't need a partner, don't have to know how to dance.....as every dance is explained on the spot by a caller and mistakes are just part of the fun.
The Toronto Spring Thaw is held at Eastminster United Church at 310 Danforth Avenue (East of Broadview Ave, West of Pape Ave.). Check out the website below.
The blurry photos here were the best my camera could do capturing the fast paced action.
Leave a Comment
Website: http://sca.uwaterloo.ca/~tcd/thaw.htm
Toronto
email me
add as friend
on Jul 25, 2005
Comments for tpal about Toronto