Join us to enjoy an evening of participatory dance and learn about the range of traditional arts practiced in Vermont today. This event is an opportunity for attendees of all ages and abilities to gather, move together to live music, and learn from local dancers. Learn some Bollywood steps or a dance from Nepal; try some circle dances from Quebec or Tibet, and more!
Tickets are $15 in advance or suggested donation of $15 at the door.
Come join the dance!
The Community Dance Party will be led by four community-recognized dance experts and longtime VT Folklife partners: Migmar Tsering (Tibetan musician and dance leader), Mary Wesley (contra and square dance caller), Urmila Chhetri (Bhutanese Nepali and Bollywood Dance Instructor and director of the AALV Youth Group danceres), and Susmita Dhakal (Nepali dance leader). The program will emphasize “social” dances, which focus on participation rather than performance.
Dance leaders will provide a demonstration followed by instruction tailored to make the dance experience accessible to all participants. Come at 6:30 to enjoy dances especially geared towards families with young children.
No partner necessary. All skill levels and ages welcome!
About the Festival
The Young Tradition Festival is an annual celebration of young artists and multi-generational relationships in diverse traditional music and dance communities, as well as an opportunity for youth, families, and the general public to immerse themselves in a wide range of traditional music and dance.
Schedule of Events:
Friday, May 8th
Performances for Burlington school students and residents at a local retirement community
6:30-9:00 - Community Dance Party, featuring a variety of participatory dances taught by local artists. All ages welcome—try Nepali dance, square and contra dancing, and more! - Contois Auditorium
Saturday, May 9th
10:00-1:00 - Student/Mentor Showcase at the Burlington Farmers Market
2:00-3:00 - Fam Jam! Join local musicians for a family friendly jam session!
7:00-9:30 - Evening Concert featuring L’Ensemble Trad Jeunesse, the Young Tradition Touring Group and the duo Alex Kehler & Nicholas Williams