Good afternoon all,

It was suggested/requested that I share my program used for a recent gig at MASS MoCa. 
Event description: Thursday night, 1 hour dance session taking place during one of the venue's summer Chalets. The Chalet is held 6-10 and traditionally includes a beer garden, outdoor games, and live music from local performers. Attendees vary depending on the day. All ages, little to no experience.

While planning my program I chose dances that incorporated very forgiving figures and timing. Only one dance required role terms (and only barely at that). I demo'ed the do si do during the second dance, the rest was able to be taught from the stage. I explained several variations of the swing (two hand turn, elbow turn, ballroom hold) and let them choose their own adventure (all swings were done with a partner). Each dance was walked through once.

Circle Circassian (balfolk dance)
Formation: Circle mixer, modified to be a keeper
Circle Left (8)
Circle Right (8)

Robins (I used moons) into the center and clap, come on back (8)
Larks (I used stars) into the center and clap, come on back (8)

Partner swing (16)

Partner promenade (16)

Summer Sun Shine
Formation: Longways Set
Long lines forward and back (8)
Partner RH allemande 1x (8)

Long lines forward and back (8)
Partner LH allemande 1x (8)

Partner do si do 1x (8)
Partner swing (8)

Top couple sashay to bottom, everyone else slide up (16)

Scatter mixer, modified to be a keeper
Formation: two couples in rings of four
Circle left 1x (8)
Circle right 1x (8)

RH star 1x (8)
LH star 1x (8)

Neighbor two hand turn (8)
Partner swing (8)

Partner promenade around the room (8)
Find a new couple, take hands four (8)

Family Contra by Sherry Nevins, with a modified progression
Formation: Improper contra (roles don't matter)
Balance ring 2x (8)
Circle left 1x (8)

Balance ring 2x (8)
Circle right 1x (8)

Neighbor do si do (8)
Partner Do si do (8)

As couples do si do (8), take hands four
Balance right, pass through to new rings (8)


--
Liz Nelson
She/Her