Mountain Hoot Appalachian Music, Dance, Culture Day at the Folk School

Olive’s Porch is excited to bring back percussive dance powerhouse Becky Hill to host a day featuring folklorist Gerry Milnes, callers Ellen & Eugene Ratcliffe, and band Golden Shoals. Mountain Hoot: Appalachian Music, Dance, & Culture Day will take place at the Open House covered pavilion by the Folk School Gardens on August 26, 2023. Register now for $100 at olivesporch.org or call 828-837-1885. Spots are limited, and prices increase on August 1.  

Mountain Hoot offers a window into traditional mountain square dance, stories of mountain songs and the people who sing them, partner and percussive dance, and more.  The daylong workshop series runs in conjunction with a concert performance, community dance, and old-time jam throughout the weekend which are open to the public by donation. The events are open to beginners, budding pickers, and avid dancers alike. Our special guest dance callers are husband and wife duo Ellen and Eugene Ratcliffe of Highland County Virginia. They are super dynamic and energetic dancers and callers; you can’t help but bust a move when they’re on the floor.  

Hosted by Becky Hill, former Olive’s Porch Artist in Residence who spent four months in the area focusing on her craft while working within and building community. She’s joined by her longtime mentor, folklorist musician Gerry Milnes. Gerry was the Folk Art Coordinator at the Augusta Heritage Center of Davis & Elkins College for twenty-five years and has taught at the Center since 1976. He produced 26 albums of Appalachian music and 16 films about West Virginia traditional life; receiving the WV Governor’s Arts Award, Vandalia Award, Robert C. Byrd Fiddling Award, Footbridge Award, and WV Filmmaker of the Year.  

All are welcome. We hope to see you there! 

Workshop registration and schedule information is found at bit.ly/mountainhoot