and daughters Claire, 13, and Abby, 12
WHAT: Kicking up their heels
WHERE: Scout House, Concord
Regina Laskowski stood in front of two lines of moving bodies and called, “OK, now peel the banana!” If you've never done a do-si-do in your life, you might think she was talking about fruit. But don't worry. You're still welcome at the New England Folk Festival Association/Folk Arts Center of New England Family Dances.
On a rainy Sunday in December, about 30 people came for “Traditional Dances From Around the World” with Laskowski and organizer Judith Stames-Hamilton, who confirmed our suspicion that the low turnout was likely due to the holiday season. Normally, she said, crowds number in the triple digits.
The small group didn't detract from the high spirits, fun, and exercise. Folk dancing is a good way for the kids (and you) to get moving any time of year, but the opportunity is especially welcome during the winter months.
Two left feet? No problem. Our warm-up was a Serbian circle dance everyone could do, including the toddlers and the adults with babes in arms. Things got a bit more strenuous when we tried what Americans know as the Mexican hat dance. Kicking out my heels and clapping in the right direction while yelling “Arriba!,” “Abajo!,” and “Derecha!” felt a little like rubbing my stomach and patting my head at the same time. The kids pulled it off easily, with plenty of giggles.
On to a Romanian circle dance, the Bolivian “Carnavalito” and “Greensleeves,” then a break for a cup of cider and a chance to socialize before hitting the floor again.
The dances are accompanied by live music and taught by the callers, but they'd be manageable even without instruction. One mom who arrived late whispered to her young daughter, “Just copy what the others are doing.” That was a cinch for the little girl in her adorable plaid dress. Ladies, take her cue and wear your flounciest skirt - you'll have more fun. Opa!
Upcoming dances on Jan. 2 and 16, Feb. 6 and 20, March 6 and 20 from 2-4 p.m. at the Scout House, 74 Walden St., Concord. $5, $25 family maximum. Bring soft-soled shoes for dancing. 781-662-7476, www.facone.org