Frenzy and Thunderwing with Janine Smith & Derick Kalish
2025-12-05 18:00 - 2025-12-07 15:00 (America/New_York) | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
Frenzy and Thunderwing with Janine Smith & Derick Kalish
A Dancing Fish Double-Header with two bands, two callers totaling 16 hours of rocking music & dance!
Thunderwing is Cedar Stanistreet on fiddle, Benjamin Foss on fiddle, banjo, and guitar, and Amy Englesberg on piano and accordion. Together they draw upon their wide-ranging musical experiences to create their own kind of party within the New England contra dance tradition. Their electrifying energy will leave you soaring and stomping in delight!

Thunderwing is:

Cedar Stanistreet on fiddle,
Benjamin Foss on fiddle, banjo, and guitar, and
Amy Englesberg on piano and accordion.

Contra band Frenzy on stage at The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe on 5 March 2022
Frenzy is:

Eden MacAdam-Somer on fiddle
Sam Bartlett on guitar; and
Pokey on percussion.

Callers: Janine Smith and Derick Kalish
Janine Smith and Stomp Rocket on stage at The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, June 5, 2022
Dereck Kalish, contra caller
Schedule:

Friday 6-10 pm
Saturday 12-4 pm
Saturday 6-10 pm
Sunday 11-3 pm

Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult
Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Make Your Donation Here:

Monthly First Weekend Donations

Payment OptionsYOU decideAdult - Single DanceAdults (2) - Single DanceAdult - Weekend PassAdults (2) - Weekend PassYouth - Single DanceYouth - Weekend PassYouth (2) - Weekend Pass

Mary Wesley and Stomp Rocket • January 2–3, 2026
2026-01-02 19:00 - 2026-01-03 21:00
Mary Wesley & Stomp Rocket Return to The Dancing FishJanuary 2–3, 2026 • Melrose, FloridaTwo days • Three sessions

Stomp Rocket is back together with Mary Wesley — and if you’ve danced here before, you already know what that means.
Mary Wesley and Stomp Rocket return to The Dancing Fish for a full weekend of driving, joyful, deeply satisfying contra dancing. This is a pairing that Florida contra dancers recognize instantly: musical phrasing that is spot on, choreography that flows, and a dance barn like no other that rocks to the rhythm of Stomp Rocket.

Stomp Rocket is:

Dave Langford on fiddle;
Glen Loper on mandolin and banjo; and
Bethany Waickman on guitar and keyboard.

Stomp Rocket brings exactly the kind of sound that thrives at The Dancing Fish: rhythmic, grounded, and irresistibly danceable. Their tunes have lift without frenzy, drive without blur — the sort of music that rewards attentive dancing and keeps your feet grounded while your heart flies. They know how to stretch a phrase, lean into a swing, and fuel long lines late into the evening.
This is a three-session weekend for dancers who want time to warm up, settle in, and really dance. Expect a floor full of familiar faces, strong lines, and that unmistakable Dancing Fish feeling when everything clicks and nobody wants the night to end.
Mary Wesley, contra caller
Mary Wesley of Vermont loves to share her infectious joy for traditional dancing with dancers of all ages. She has something to offer every crowd. Mary’s calling is a gift to experienced dancers. Her teaching is economical, her timing precise, and her programs build momentum without ever feeling rushed or over-explained. She trusts the floor, shapes the arc of an evening with care, and gives dancers the space to dance hard and dance well.
Potluck Dinner on Saturday
“Come one, come all to the Saturday potluck between the afternoon and evening dances. Michael Croft and Suanne Kimmel are firing up the grill and yes, we will have salmon and veggies again! Text RSVP to 386-290-3731 or email sukimsu@gmail.com”
There will be a Potluck Dinner on Saturday between afternoon & evening dances with salmon & veggies.

Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm
Saturday 12-3 pm
Saturday 6-9 pm

Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult
Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Hannah Chamberlain with Larry Unger, Emily Troll & Eric Boodman
2026-02-06 19:00 - 2026-02-07 21:00
Hannah Chamberlain with Larry Unger, Emily Troll & Eric Boodman

Hannah Chamberlain from Maine is a rising contra dance caller celebrated for her vibrant energy, clear instruction, and ability to build instant rapport with dancers. Her calling style blends confidence and charm, making each dance set feel both accessible and exhilarating for all participants.
Music by:

Larry Unger (Notorious);
Eric Boodman (Calico); and
Emily Troll (Pine Tree Flyers and Anadama)

Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm
Saturday 12-3 pm

Potluck Dinner at 4:30 pm

Saturday 6-9 pm

Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult
Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Will Mentor & Jet Bridge
2026-03-06 19:00 - 2026-03-07 21:00
Will Mentor & Jet Bridge

Known for their inventive arrangements and infectious grooves, Jet Bridge blends old-time roots with contemporary flair, creating a high-energy sound that keeps dancers on their toes and smiling all night.
Jet Bridge is:

Paula Bradley
Sam Bartlett
Abby Ladon
Sami Braman

Will Mentor is a nationally acclaimed contra dance caller known for his expert timing, engaging style, and deep musical sensitivity. With a repertoire that spans traditional and contemporary contras, he brings a calm authority and infectious enthusiasm that consistently elevate the dance experience for both beginners and veterans alike.
Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm
Saturday 12-3 pm
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm

Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult
Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

April 3-4: Diane Silver & Hot Coffee Breakdown
2026-04-03 19:00 - 2026-04-04 21:00
Diane Silver & Hot Coffee Breakdown

Hot Coffee Breakdown is a spirited contra dance band known for its driving rhythms, playful energy, and seamless blend of old-time and modern acoustic styles. Their lively tunes and infectious groove ignite dance floors wherever they play, delivering sets that are both deeply traditional and refreshingly inventive.
Hot Coffee Breakdown is:

Tom Cunningham on fiddle
Kate Sanders on keyboard, and
Luis deLeon on percussion.

Diane Silver is a nationally respected contra dance caller renowned for her graceful delivery, rhythmic intuition, and warm connection with dancers. With a voice that guides with ease and a repertoire full of lively, flowing dances, she brings both professionalism and joy to every event she leads.
Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

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. RSVP for a headcount sukimsu@gmail.com or text 386-290-3731. Thank you!
Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult
Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Lift Ticket and Dereck Kalish
2026-05-01 19:00 - 2026-05-02 21:00
Lift Ticket and Dereck Kalish

Lift Ticket is

Rex Blazer;
Jeff Spero; and
TJ Crow.

Caller: Dereck Kalish
Dereck Kalish, contra caller
Dereck Kalish is a dynamic contra dance caller known for clear teaching, smooth choreography, and an engaging stage presence. His calling blends precision and humor, helping both new and experienced dancers feel confident on the floor.
Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

Potluck Dinner on Saturdays
All are welcome to the Saturday Potluck. Come for the fellowship and stay for the food! We will have Salmon on the grill and plenty of delicious goodies. Questions? Text Suanne @ 386-290-3731 or email sukimsu@gmail.com
Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult
Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

June 5-6: Michael Karcher & Sycamore
2026-06-05 19:00 - 2026-06-06 21:00
Michael Karcher & Sycamore

Michael Karcher resides in Pennsylvania, but has made a name for himself calling on the West Coast. He has called at some of the biggest dance events out there including Balance the Bay, Cascade Contras, Northwest Folklife and in 2027 Supersonic. He has started calling weekends on the East Coast including Pittsburgh Fall Dance Weekend, NEFFA, and ContraCopia.
Sycamore is:

Cedar Stanistreet, fiddle
Samuel Foucher, accordion
Silas Hamilton.

Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

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. RSVP for a headcount sukimsu@gmail.com or text 386-299-3731. Thank you!
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Fourth of July Weekend at The Dancing Fish
2026-07-03 18:00 - 2026-07-05 15:00
Fourth of July Weekend
at The Dancing Fish
July 3-5, 2026
Featuring:
Two callers: Janet Shepherd & Dwayne Johnson
Two bands: Kingfisher and Full Tilt

Caller Janet Shepherd is returning by popular demand.

Kingfisher is Cecilia Vacanti and Jeff Kaufman.

Full Tilt is:

Debby Knight on keyboard;
Len Bittenson on viola/fiddle/recorder; and
Carol Bittenson on fiddle.

Callers:

Janet Shepherd is a veteran of over 30 years, calling primarily contras and squares.
Dwayne Johnson is a veteran contra dance caller based in Kentucky who has been calling for over 20 years.

Dance Sessions:

Friday 6-10 pm Contra Dances
Saturday 12-4 pm Contra Dances
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-10 pm Contra Dances
Sunday 11-3 pm Contra Dances

Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible, (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Make Your Donation Here:

Monthly First Weekend Donations

Payment OptionsYOU decideAdult - Single DanceAdults (2) - Single DanceAdult - Weekend PassAdults (2) - Weekend PassYouth - Single DanceYouth - Weekend PassYouth (2) - Weekend Pass
Camping
Campers are welcome, but be sure to contact Dancing Fish property manager Pat Ward first before coming. Text him at (703) 509-3820 or write to patward562@gmail.com.
Potluck Dinner
Potluck Dinner has been added to the schedule between Saturday dances! Food, fun and fellowship. It might be raining, but the tables are covered at the barn. And the grill is covered. Show up early and bring a dish. Let’s try to start arriving and cooking at 3:30, serving starts at 4:30. Please bring something to share with your friends: food and tales of romance and adventures.

Potluck dinner at The Dancing Fish

Suggestions:

Cheese/crackers
Main dish (cooked or to be grilled)
Vegetables (cooked or to be grilled)
Salads
Desserts

We will provide plates, service, large grills, coffee, napkins. There is a refrigerator in the barn when needed.

Join in the 4th of July potluck party. We are socially interesting people. Let’s be nice to one another: Share food and stories with each other before the 6 o’clock dance!

Labor Day Weekend Blast at The Dancing Fish
2026-09-04 18:00 - 2026-09-06 15:00
Labor Day Weekend Blast at The Dancing Fish
September 4-6, 2026
Featuring:
Two callers: Kenny Greer and Jeremy Peterson
Two bands: Potent Brew and ContraGrass
Steve Kemble and George Paul of Potent Brew

Caller Kenny Greer will be joined by caller Jeremy Peterson.
Schedule:

Friday 6-10 pm Contra Dances
Saturday 12-4 pm Contra Dances
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-10 pm Contra Dances
Sunday 11-3 pm Contra Dances

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. RSVP for a headcount sukimsu@gmail.com or text 386-299-3731. Thank you!
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Luke Donforth calling
2026-10-02 19:00 - 2026-10-03 21:00
Luke Donforth calling

Luke Donforth is a contra caller and choreographer based in Burlington, VT. He brings a warmth to the mic and focuses on facilitating everyone in the hall joyously moving to the music. He’s a founding member of the Mad Robin Callers Collective, and calls everything from family dances to festivals. Luke is a prolific writer of dances, and you can expect new and classic compositions to keep your feet flying.
Band: To Be Announced
Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

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.
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Steve Zakon-Anderson & The Dam Beavers
2026-11-06 19:00 - 2026-11-07 21:00
Steve Zakon-Anderson & The Dam Beavers
Steve Zakon-Anderson
Steve Zakon-Anderson is one of the country’s most respected contra dance callers, known for his clear teaching, relaxed humor, and deep command of the dance floor. Calling since the early 1980s, he brings decades of experience to every event, helping newcomers feel welcome while giving experienced dancers the smooth flow, timing, and lift that make contra dancing a pleasure.

The Dam Beavers are a vibrant trio who play lively music for the American folk dance community. Their energetic sound is a fixture at contra dance events and folk festivals across North America.
The Dam Beavers are:

Ben Schreiber on fiddle
Scotty Leach on keyboard
Ness Smith-Savedoff on drums and percussion

Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

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.
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Bob Isaacs and Frenzy
2026-12-04 18:00 - 2026-12-05 21:00
Bob Isaacs and Frenzy
Bob Isaacs calls contra dances at The Dancing Fish.
Bob Isaacs is a legendary contra dance caller and choreographer, celebrated for clear, concise teaching, flowing contras, inventive choreography, and his exhilarating grid squares. Based in Princeton, New Jersey, he has shaped the modern contra repertoire with creative dances called across the country, while bringing calm authority, wit, and musical precision to the microphone. Dancers value Bob for the rare combination of technical brilliance and welcoming ease that makes even sophisticated dances feel natural, social, and fun.

Frenzy is:

Eden MacAdam-Somer on fiddle;
Sam Bartlett on guitar; and
Pokey on percussion

Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

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.
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Mary Wesley & Stomp Rocket
2027-01-01 19:00 - 2027-01-02 21:00
Mary Wesley & Stomp Rocket
Mary Wesley brings a bright, welcoming presence to the contra dance floor, combining clear teaching with the easy enthusiasm of someone deeply rooted in traditional dance. A Vermont caller, dance leader, and organizer, she calls contras, squares, morris, family dances, and community dances, carrying forward a tradition that runs through her own family. Dancers appreciate her friendly style, musical sense, and ability to make a hall feel open, lively, and connected from the first walkthrough to the final swing.
