George Marshall calling to music by Wild Asparagus

Wild Asparagus Weekend at the Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, May 7-9th 2027 Contra dance to one of New England’s finest bands, Wild Asparagus, at the refurbished Dancing Fish, on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, Florida (18 miles east of Gainesville). The wonders of Wild Asparagus never cease. Together for thirty years, their music has matured like a fine wine. This powerful ensemble brings a unique sound and dynamic energy to contra dancing weaving a spell that you wish would never end. Their creative, driving tunes keep dancers energized and inspired while George’s smooth, efficient calling makes challenging contras seem easy as pie.

• George Marshall, renowned for his graceful calling style, also plays concertina, bodhran and bones.
• Ann Percival delights dancers with irresistible piano and guitar rhythms and mellifluous vocals.
• David Cantieni, woodwind wizard, adds rich layers to each arrangement with flute, tin-whistle, oboe, saxophone and bombard.
• Becky Tracy graces each tune with her elegant, energetic fiddling.
• Mark Murphy on bass fiddle; and
• Pokey on percussion and you’ve got one big, bold sound.

Four Contra Dance sessions in three days!

Dance Schedule:

• FRIDAY EVENING (5/7): 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
• SATURDAY AFTERNOON (5/8): 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
• SATURDAY AFTERNOON (5/8): Potluck Dinner @ 4:30 pm
• SATURDAY EVENING (5/8): 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
• SUNDAY AFTERNOON (5/9): 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

LOCATION: Dance at the air-conditioned dance barn at The Dancing Fish, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL 32666 (the western edge of Melrose, FL). Bring a lawn chair & enjoy outdoor activities on the shore of Lake Santa Fe when you’re not busy dancing. Snacks to share will be appreciated at all four dances this weekend.

 

OTHER ACTIVITIES Overnight camping, swimming, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, fishing, are available. Bring your own boat. Dancers should make their own arrangements. Grilling is allowed within the compound (bring your own grill).

Potluck Dinner Saturday afternoon

All are welcome at our potluck dinner Saturday between dances. We gather about 4:30. We will have plenty of salmon coming off the grill about 5 pm. Y’all have been bringing great food to share for all diets. Crockpots are welcome too.

To pay, scan this QR code or click on The Dancing Fish on PayPal

Suggested Donation (No need to register or pay in advance)

Beginners are welcome/No lesson needed/First Dance is FREE

• Adults:
  • 1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session
  • $40-60 for weekend pass
  • 3rd Saturdays: $10-20
• Under 26:
  • 1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session
  • $20-30 for weekend pass
  • 3rd Saturdays: $5-10
• Under 18: Admitted free when accompanied by an adult

All donations go to pay for musicians, callers and sound tech. (No hall rental fee.)

NOTES

1. The dance barn is on Private Residential Property. Please respect the wishes of the homeowner and neighbors.
2. No over-night RVs/Tents, without emailed permission
3. For more info on dances, propane grills, picnicking, pot-luck dinners, camping, kayaking, dining, housing, etc. email: JoeRushMD@iCloud.com