Contra Dance Calling
Photo at top by Julian Blechner.
Contra dance is a traditional American social dance form which has been going strong—and ever evolving—for four centuries, enjoyed by folks of all ages and backgrounds.
As a contra dance caller (instructor), it’s my job to make sure that anyone and everyone can walk in for their first dance or their fiftieth and have a wonderful, welcoming experience in our extraordinary community. I teach and prompt every dance as we go, so absolutely no experience is necessary.
In my decade of calling experience, I’ve worked with local dance communities of all shapes, sizes, and experience levels, calling local dances as well as weekends, techno sessions, private events, and even family dances. If you’re interested in collaborating on your next dance event, please contact me at chloe.e.w.levine@gmail.com. I’d love to chat, and I’d be happy to provide videos and references if you’d like them.
Want to learn more about contra? Check out this FAQ page from my home dance, Boston Intergenerational Dance Advocates (BIDA).
Upcoming Events
Saturday, July 19, 2025 — Traditional Austin Area Dance Association (Austin, TX)
Music by the Rusty Nails
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 — Austin Barn Dancers (Austin, TX)
Open band
Saturday, September 13, 2025 — Country Dance New York (New York, NY)
Music details forthcoming
WEEKEND: October 17-19, 2025 — Lavender Country and Folk Dancers Fall Camp (Woodstock Valley, CT)
Also called by Sue Rosen
Music by Chimney Swift
Wednesday, November 26, 2025 — Baltimore Folk Music Society (Baltimore, MD)
Music details forthcoming
Friday, December 19, 2025 — Rivanna Contra Dance (Charlottesville, VA)
Music details forthcoming
Saturday, December 20, 2025 — WALTZ BALL — Brooklyn Contra (Brooklyn, NY)
Music details forthcoming
Please note: The role terms “leads” and “follows” will be used at this dance. Also, this event is indeed a contra dance! There’s just a waltz lesson as well, to be taught by someone else TBD.
Tuesday, January 6, 2026 — Fiddle and Bow Country Dancers (Greensboro, NC)
Music details forthcoming
Friday, January 9, 2026 — Friday Night Dancers (Glen Echo, MD)
Music details forthcoming
Saturday, January 10, 2026 — Baltimore Folk Music Society (Baltimore, MD)
Music details forthcoming
Sunday, January 11, 2026 — Traditional American Dance and Music Society (Richmond, VA)
Music by Raven & Goose
Please note: The historical role terms “gents” and “ladies” will be used at this dance. As always, anyone of any gender is encouraged to dance any role.
Saturday, January 31, 2026 — Annapolis Traditional Dance Society (Annapolis, MD)
Music details forthcoming
Saturday, March 21, 2026 — Blacksburg Contra Dance (Blacksburg, VA)
Music details forthcoming
Saturday, May 9, 2026 — Norwich Contra Dance (Norwich, VT)
Music details forthcoming