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VPR's coverage of arts and culture in the region.

Square, Contra and Henry Ford: The History And Lasting Appeal Of Country Dancing

Contra and other forms of country dance have a lasting appeal. We're talking about the history behind the tradition.
Sterling College
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Contra and other forms of country dance have a lasting appeal. We're talking about the history behind the tradition.

It's a centuries-old tradition with a wild history and deep New England roots. We're talking about American country dancing, including contra dance. We'll hear from the author of a book that traces the story of this tradition, and we'll talk about how and why it still appeals to so many people today.

Richard Nevell is an author and filmmaker. His book A Time to Dance: American Country Dancing from Hornpipes to Hot Hash is out in a new edition.

Dana Dwinell-Yardley is a contra dancer, dance organizer and dance caller.

Broadcast Thursday, May 3, 2018 at noon; rebroadcast at 7 p.m.

Jane Lindholm is the host, executive producer and creator of But Why: A Podcast For Curious Kids. In addition to her work on our international kids show, she produces special projects for Vermont Public. Until March 2021, she was host and editor of the award-winning Vermont Public program Vermont Edition.
Mary Williams Engisch is a local host on All Things Considered.
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