What’s New

Claudia Schmidt introduces “Horse Thief,” the story of a woman who cleverly outwits three gentlemen and comes away one horse richer.

In this episode of From the Mic, Mary Wesley talks with Emily Rush, a contra caller, organizer, and DJ from Durham, North Carolina. Emily is especially known for Rushfest—her signature blend of contra dancing to recorded pop music, which she mixes herself—and she has brought it to dance weekends and events across the country.

Join us for a discussion of Hoedowns, Reels, and Frolics: Roots and Branches of Southern Appalachian Dance with author Phil Jamison.

Tuesday, October 13, 2026
8:00 p.m. ET (5:00 p.m. PT)

Register here or learn more about the club.

The latest issue of the CDSS News is out now! Celebrate the lives of Dudley Laufman, Sharon McKinley, and John Seto; learn to create dance videos and archive your group’s history; and more!

Archiving Your Organization’s History
With Pat MacPherson and Susan Creighton
A special four-part online course

Tuesdays, Oct. 6 and Nov. 3, 2026, and Jan. 12 and Feb. 2, 2027
8:00 p.m ET (5:00 p.m. PT)
$400/group

Read more or apply for the course.

Arthur Knevett introduces “Ship in Distress.” It tells the tale of desperate sailors who draw lots to choose which one will be killed and eaten. Will the doomed sailor survive? Listen and find out!

In this episode of From the Mic, we talk with Margaret Bary, who teaches English country dance in New York City and beyond. She’s also a community dance leader, ritual dancer, and dance choreographer along with her husband, Jeff. Underlying her work with people of all ages, Margaret believes that participatory dance fosters joy, self-expression, and connection between people.

Carolyn Robson introduces “Derwentwater’s Farewell.” The song speaks in the voice of James Radcliffe, who was executed for his part in the 1715 Jacobite Rebellion, as he laments leaving his beloved homeland.

ECD callers: Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Fried de Metz Herman’s birth by programming one or more of her dances between now and November 13th (Fried’s birthday). Friends of Fried will donate $5 to CDSS, up to a limit of $500! Learn more

This episode features pianist and accordionist Amy Englesberg and fiddler Cedar Stanistreet, who tell the story of their beginnings and the path they’ve traveled as a band. You’ll also hear some Irish tunes, New England chestnuts, and originals. Listen and subscribe!

George Stephens and Kathy Westra Stephens explore the current relevance of “Last Winter Was a Hard One (When McGuiness Gets a Job).” In this wry 1880 song, Irish immigrant wives complain that “Eye-talians” are stealing jobs from their husbands.

In this episode, we get to explore the interconnected musical journeys of three incredible musicians: Guillaume’s band Nova and Rose’s band Polaris inspired Helen’s teenage dancing in Washington State, while both Rose and Guillaume were profoundly shaped by mentors Becky Tracy and Jeremiah McLane of Nightingale. Listen and subscribe!