ROCKPORT – Let your shoes fly to the gorgeous Rockport Opera House for a Flying Shoes dance, now scheduled every second Sunday of the month. A unique cultural tradition, this intergenerational and chem-free program welcomes participation from new dancers and experienced folks alike.
The featured band this month is a dynamic duo from Maine: Molly & Pepin. Molly Gawler is a fiddler and songster who was raised on music and dance as part of the beloved Gawler Family Band. Besides playing for dances, she teaches music and dance, leads sessions, and performs widely, including with her project, Droplet Dance. Guitar player, Pepin Mittelhauser, also grew up in Maine, contra dancing his way through childhood and college. Locals may recognize his voice from his work at WERU Community Radio, and his musicianship is highly regarded throughout the state and region, including with his duo, Gus & Pepin. Molly & Pepin’s positive energy and well-crafted tunes will propel the dancers across the floor! Returning to the Flying Shoes stage is Quena Crain, a teacher and dance caller who hails from Vermont. Her warm presence is sure to keep dancers connected to the music, each other, and the deep roots of dancing in our region.
Presented by the Rockport Opera House, the Town of Rockport and Belfast Flying Shoes, the evening starts at 6 p.m. with the community dance – simple dances for all ages and experience levels and especially great for families with young children. All musicians are invited to be a “Back Row Bandit” and play along with the band during the community dance. The contra dance begins at 7 p.m. with a brief introductory session followed by a full evening of dances.
The new Rockport dance committee is thrilled to offer this series for locals, especially folks from nearby towns like Camden, Rockport, Rockland, Lincolnville, Warren, Thomaston and Cushing. Bring your friends and family! All are welcome.
The Rockport Opera House is at 6 Central St. The committee invites first-time new dancers to attend free of charge. Sliding scale admission is $15–$25 for the entire evening. The first hour’s community dance is only $1 kids $2 adults.
Belfast Flying Shoes builds community and cultivates well-being through the joys of traditional music and dance. Its nonprofit programs include participatory dance residencies for students and staff at local schools. Info at belfastflyingshoes.org
Built in 1891, the Rockport Opera House is one of the architectural gems of Maine. Owned by the Town of Rockport, the venue hosts concerts, weddings, special events and community programming throughout the year. Info at rockportoperahouse.org/.