BRUMMIE CONTRAS
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    • Barry Selwood
  • Winter
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On 29:11:15 was our last dance at our earlier venue of the Chaplaincy for a while.
2015 Christmas Party was at Elmdon Heath C.C. Hall - It may become our new venue.

 A Special Bonus, fun party-dance  !
With Contras -  This Sunday afternoon NOW before Christmas.   -
Sun 20th Dec. 2- 5.25: Kim Smith brings us- Kim's Christmas Dance!

A fun Brummie C's "Sunday Variety Party" with Contras & squares.
At the party afternoon there will be a wider than usual mix of dances:
so you may bring along friends or relatives for fun squares and mixers as well as introducing all to some of our lively American Contras.

ADULT  PARTY  TICKET  on  the  DOOR  -  £7.    ( Inclusive for 2015 Season ticket holders. )

Barry kindly offers: Transport from University Station to Elmdon Heath Hall.
Presently 2 seats available. Tel contact is - 07870 146 440  Barry will meet the train arriving 1300 at University railway station.  bselwood21ATgmailDOTcom
(Please substitute punctuation for CAPITAL letters. This stops automated-detection bringing Barry nuisance mails.)
Lest your eMail be missed;  If no reply after about 2 days, please contact Barry again.

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If Solihull Station is fortuitously convenient, go to the  B91 2SF MAPS/PRINT page for
the route details & maps there. Available printout includes Sunday bus routes/times.
See
NEW VENUE of Elmdon Heath Hall for reasons to move Kim's Party with Contras  !

 A Special Bonus, fun party-dance  !
With Contras -  On the Sunday afternoon before Christmas.   -
SUN 20th Dec  Kim Smith brings us  -  Kim's Christmas Dance -

A fun Brummie C's "Sunday Variety Party" with Contras & squares.
At the party afternoon there will be a wider than usual mix of dances:
so you may bring along friends or relatives for fun squares and mixers as well as introducing all to some of our lively American Contras.

ADULT  PARTY  TICKET  on  the  DOOR  -  £7.    ( Inclusive for 2015 Season ticket holders. )
( P
REPAID  ADULT PRICE - £6 HERE ! )

PictureElaine plays in "Portland Drive".
  2015's  Remaining "Brummie Contra"
- Dance.         Code start for your form & your Bank FPS.        Submission      
                                                                                                   DEADLINE
                                                                                               - at midnight
                                                                                                   on DATE -



SUN 20th Dec Kim's Christmas Fun Dance -                   15/Dec                17th December.

   PARTY PREPAYMENT  form  HERE -  ADULT  £6.  Student £5.



3
rd Jan 2016
  -  Geoff Cubitt   &  “The Night Before”
       16/Jan            December 28th.


 The Special Bonus, fun dance is on the Sunday before Christmas.
SUN 20th Dec  Kim Smith bringing us - Kim's Christmas Dance -

A fun Brummie C's "Sunday Variety Party" with Contras:
ADULT  PARTY  TICKET  on  the  DOOR  -  £7.    ( Inclusive for 2015 Season ticket holders. )
( P
REPAID  ADULT PRICE - £6 )

You and your partner may begin as "ones" ie facing down in your starting "hands 4" (your back  to the caller) & progress down the set.
OR you and your partner may begin as "twos" ie facing up in your starting "hands 4" - you then progress up the set towards the caller.


If NEW to this, be sure YOU get several turns in your same starting direction.
To do so, please ASK the other couple in your "hands 4" to helpfully swop, else change into another 4 to allow this.
This arrangement (of dancing several turns in your starting direction) is very helpful for yourself as a new dancer at Contras.
But it's also helpful for others in your set, to best maintain the dance movements.

NOTE: At each end of the set, you often stand (and wait once through the tune). You usually change sides to go back the other way.

An ideal opportunity this, to WATCH and to think about the similar moves you'll need in your NEW direction.

You may view this explanation: where
Contra line formation is gradually explained by an American uTube video. HERE
In the UK, we usually form-up ready in Contra lines ie alternate man & woman, started by taking hands 4 from the top of the set.
Opposite is your partner - beside in your group of 4 is your contra (or neighbour).
See this all shown & called in an: Easy Contra Dance as the above details are explained HERE in the next American uTube video.

Rarely, the caller announces a dance in Proper lines, just the way the couples initially form in this uTube lesson 5 above.
All the men start the dance on "the men's side of the set", opposite their ladies.
(In the US, you'll find they call their women "women".).


In a Double Progression Dance,
- one sequence of the dance takes you past two couples. You spend little or no time waiting at the end.
(You often find here, that you automatically change sides.
Each dance of this type may cause odd things to happen to you near the end of the set.
These "end effects" vary according to the name of the dance.)
Double progression is popular with regular Contra dancers because the moves are slick, and keep you thinking as you dance.

In Beckett Formation. In the UK, a caller normally announces this. You stand in the lines: in 4's, but BESIDE your partner -
With as usual, lady on the right of man !
(To get into this formation, you may be asked to "circle a quarter" from Contra lines.)

Contras are a great occasion for the young and keen.
But many still are very keen on this dancing, but wishing they were younger !

Please note: A few want a gentler style.
Carefully respect those recovering from injury, or enjoying the company and music but wishing to dance at their pace.
In a Double Progression Dance,
- one sequence of the dance takes you past two couples. You spend little or no time waiting at the end.
(You often find here, that you automatically change sides.
Each dance of this type may cause odd things to happen to you near the end of the set.
These "end effects" vary according to the name of the dance.)
Double progression is popular with regular Contra dancers because the moves are slick, and keep you thinking as you dance.

In Beckett Formation. In the UK, a caller normally announces this. You stand in the lines: in 4's, but BESIDE your partner -
With as usual, lady on the right of man !
(To get into this formation, you may be asked to "circle a quarter" from Contra lines.)

Contras are a great occasion for the young and keen.
But many still are very keen on this dancing, but wishing they were younger !

Please note: A few want a gentler style.
Carefully respect those recovering from injury, or enjoying the company and music but wishing to dance at their pace.
  Ideas for  2017         This Info:  –    9/12/15
S
un
8th Jan
  -  Gitt   &  Te No (But I may miss Egham&SIFD. Day b4 start of Wark Term)
(I could go for 1st Jan instead)
                     

Sun 22nd Jan  - Mns  &   “Mvention”
Sun 5th Feb - Lynder & The E Linda
(IVFDF prob 24-26th)

Sun 5th Mar - Jak ood  &  “Czzy)
Sun 19th Mar - Jak ood  &  “Czzy  (day after end of Wark Term. Any use?)
Sun 2nd Apr - Rhes tbc & Moonlnew" foursome)

Good Friday Evening- 14th Apr- CHECK VENUE Joan tbc & Porto tbc  (Sun b4 Gt Alne??)
Fri to Mon 21st -24th Apr     Gt Alne Long w/e

Sun 21st May - Bgan tbc   &  Doube & Vic (a M&M 3rd Sun clash)
Sun 4th June - Giln & The Eth & Linda)
Sun 25th June - Rs tbc & Warwick Folk Soc Contra Band tbc (Sun b4 end of Wark Term)
Sun 9th July - Frances Richardson tbc & Double Dichotomy (Mollie & Vic) tbc
3rd Sept -  ASKED ? Lisa. Geoff C.? Or  Rhod ?  & ASKed “Minor Contravention” tbc
1st Oct - Sue Rosen tbc  & Bruce Rosen Duo tbc
22nd Oct - ASK !   Jake Wood tbc  &  Double Dichotomy (Mollie & Vic(DATW again?) tbc
5th Nov - Graham Knight tbc &  “Contra-Alt-Delete” (Nikki / Grace / Sam / Ozzy
) tbc
3rd Dec -   ASKED Lisa. Geoff C. ?  &  Tbc  "The Night Before”  Or suggest Alan's 4 !  tbc   
PARTY on 17th Dec

Warwick Uni Terms

Spring Term Monday 9 January 2017 – Saturday 18 March 2017
Summer Term Monday 24 April 2017 – Saturday 1 July 2017

2017/2018
Autumn Term Monday 2 October 2017 – Saturday 9 December 2017

Sun 3rd Jan  -  Geoff Cubitt   &  “The Night Before”                         This Info:  –    6/12/15
Sun 24th Jan  - Mark Elvins  &   “Minor Contravention”
Sun 7th Feb - Lynne Render & The English Contra Dance Band (Gareth & Linda)
Sun 6th Mar - Jake Wood  &  “Contra-Alt-Delete” (Nikki / Grace / Sam / Ozzy.)

Good Friday Evening- 25th Mar- CHECK VENUE John Meechan tbc & Portland Drive Duo tbc
Sun 17th Apr - Rhodri Davies tbc & Double Dichotomy (Mollie & Vic) tbc

Sun 22nd May - Tbc   &  Tbc (Look forward to possibility of a new duo to be playing)
Sun 5th June - Gill Emerson & The English Contra Dance Band (Gareth & Linda)
Sun 26th June - Rhodri Davies tbc & Double Dichotomy (Mollie & Vic) tbc
Sun 10th July - Frances Richardson  & Double Dichotomy (Mollie & Vic)
Also Sundays - 4th Sept - 5th Oct - 23rd Oct - 6th Nov -  4th Dec + PARTY on 18th Dec
DANCES: B15  3QS. Catholic Chaplaincy Hall 29 Harrisons Rd, Edgbaston.
LOTS OF SPACE to DANCE. Large, safe car-park. We've use of a nice detached lounge for drinks:
Before dancing - for the 30min interval - or just to relax. Also a pleasant, secluded lawn outside.
5min cycle: 10-15min walk from Rail Station: Birmingham University Edgbaston. For the most pleasant route: CLICK RAIL/BUS page
Navigate/seek DIRECTIONS by POSTCODE B15  3QS ( Edgbaston or Harborne) Birmingham.
   CAUTION: DON'T search for  X "Newman University" X .
THAT takes you to a totally different part of Birmingham.
Picture
Please check all of the Oct & Nov dates -
There are changes to earlier diary entries:
SUN 1st Nov  John Meechan with Brian Stone & Elaine.
Now SUN 29th Nov Jake Wood   with Double Dichotomy.
SUN 20th Dec  Kim Smith - Kim's Christmas Dance -

A fun Brummie C's "Sunday Variety Party" with Contras:
ADULT DOOR PARTY TICKET £7 (PREPAID PRICE - £6) (Inclusive for Season Tkts.)

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       2015 Autumn  Brummie-Contra Dates -             
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 Vic & Mollie played superbly on 29th Nov in American Style.
Updated on 9th Nov. Fliers for Sun 29th Nov NOW look like THIS -




PictureMollie of Double Dichotomy
                             you're at the  HOME  page.      
  ABOVE - the Catholic Chaplaincy Hall - MAP.
Dances 2:00 - 5:45pm Sundays.
 - Energetic afternoons -  at  B15 3QS.     
  48 bus stop 1 min. 
University Rail Station 12min walk.
  click for - Rail / walk / bus details HERE.  
- At The NEXT Brummie Contra -
Double Dichotomy: with a brilliant pace & versatility - Well known from Sidmouth, Broadstairs & Towersey. -

It's a regret that NO students from nearby B'ham Uni, or even Cath Soc have tried the Contras at the Chaplaincy.
Another is that relative convenience of public transport on this website was used to advantage by very few.
Young & ethusiastic bands and callers are nonetheless greatly appreciated by all of our dancers.

The new part-time Warden anticipates at least a 30% price-hike from the dances in 2016.
To encourage attenders, almost every band has joyfully played music excellent for Contras, and -
to allow a gradual build-up regular dancers - have - like the callers - accepted fees based on our takings -
which have often inadequately reflected their travel and other costs.
Band fees have been personally subsidised, where remuneration has seemed particularly unjust.

Above & on our many Dance fliers - adverts for our Dances do much to "sell" the Chaplaincy Hall & its good points.
BUT
!  No stage. No curtaining to improve acoustics. No opportunity to open windows or through doors, to ventilate.
No ceiling fans. Bands kept waiting, then expected to lug equipment through 3 entrance doors and 2 halls, to set up !
The new part-time Warden anticipates at least a 30% price-hike from the dances in 2016.
To encourage attenders, almost every band has joyfully played music excellent for Contras, and -
to allow a gradual build-up regular dancers - have - like the callers - accepted fees based on our takings -
which have often inadequately reflected their travel and other costs.
Band fees have been personally subsidised, where remuneration has seemed particularly unjust.

But facilities at the Chaplaincy Hall have deteriorated, even since a personal offer to buy sound absorbing foam.
New venue
  for Kim's Party with Contras
is to be the substantial hall of -
Elmdon Heath Community Centre.
In Cornyx Lane, Solihull, it's usually less than a 6min easy drive from  M42 J5.
This would seem likely to need to be our future long-term venue.

The Hall is directly indicated on the map below.
[ Navigation only by Hall postcode - B91 2SF - will direct the correct distance along , but to the OPPOSITE side of Cornyx Lane. ]
PARKING is plentiful - behind the Hall - properly surfaced and safely enclosed.
Turn off Cornyx Lane into Glebe Road - IMMEDIATELY left into the service road -
then drive to the right of the hall to park behind the hall itself.
Is the move from the venue pictured above to Elmdon Heath Hall to be permanent ?   CONSIDERABLE PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH CONTINUING AT THE CHAPLAINCY ARE OUTLINED BELOW THE MAP
PARTY DANCE PRICE - "On the door"  £7.00 
Student or U18 £5.00  - 
Buy your ticket at the "dance before" for a DISCOUNT
Adult PREPAY PRICE £6 (Student or u18 £4:50).

OR PREPAY HERE !
New venue  for Kim's Party with Contras is to be the substantial hall of -
Elmdon Heath Community Centre.
In Cornyx Lane, Solihull, it's just 4min drive from  M42 J5.

The Hall is directly indicated on the map below.
[ Navigation only by the Hall postcode - B91 2SF - directs the correct distance along , but to the OPPOSITE side of Cornyx lane. ]
PARKING is plentiful and safely enclosed.
Turn off Cornyx Lane into Glebe Road - immediately left into the service road -
then to the right of the hall to park behind the hall itself.
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PictureMollie of Double Dichotomy
     you're at the  HOME  page.      
  HERE at the Catholic Chaplaincy Hall - above
Dances 2:00 - 5:45pm Sundays.
 - Energetic afternoons -  at  B15 3QS.     
  48 bus stop 1 min. 
University Rail Station 12min walk.
  click for - Rail / walk / bus details HERE.  
- At The NEXT Brummie Contra -
Double Dichotomy: with a brilliant pace & versatility - Well known from Sidmouth, Broadstairs & Towersey. -
(When playing with Ali, they're known as "Fat Harry".)

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Brian Stone and Elaine Meechan - our MUSICIANS
PictureBrian Stone is.more usually seen bowing on less strings than here. Brian founded earlier brilliant bands, especially "Hoedown" and "Junction 24".
Brilliant Contra dance music from Brian & Elaine in the American Style.

Picture
Elaine Meechan has long been a prominent player in the band Skylark - practising keyboard skills on a road-sign here. For our Sunday gig, we intend to persuade Elaine from the street !
PictureJohn - a longterm caller and writer of dances.
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John persevered in recovery from a serious stroke. He's successfully calling again & on  occasions, he's also seen to play his "tina".

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John Meechan our CALLER

A recent definition: Zesty music & high-energy dancing. It's English tradition brought up to date and given a Trans-Atlantic twist.
Picture
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   ARRIVE ACCOMPANIED OR NOT –        –   YOU WILL BE WELCOMED  !  
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AT CONTRAS, YOU   
WILL ALWAYS HAVE     OPPORTUNITIES   
TO SHARE DANCING WITH   
A PLEASING VARIETY OF
DIFFERENT DANCING PARTNERS.  
 
 



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Keep taking an occasional look at this website!
Share another great "Brummie Contra" soon.
DANCES: B15  3QS. Catholic Chaplaincy Hall 29 Harrisons Rd, Edgbaston.
LOTS OF SPACE to DANCE. Large, safe car-park. We've use of a nice detached lounge for drinks:
Before dancing - for the 30min interval - or just to relax. Also a pleasant, secluded lawn outside.
5min cycle: 10-15min walk from Rail Station: Birmingham University Edgbaston. For the most pleasant route: CLICK RAIL/BUS page
Navigate/seek DIRECTIONS by POSTCODE B15  3QS ( Edgbaston or Harborne) Birmingham.
   CAUTION: DON'T search for  X "Newman University" X .
THAT takes you to a totally different part of Birmingham.
ARRIVE AT 1:30:   TO  SHARE AN INCLUSIVE SOCIABLE HOT DRINK . 
ANOTHER AVAILABLE IN THE LOUNGE, DURNG THE INTERVAL .
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PRICE - "On the door"  £9.00  Student £7.00  - 
Buy at the "dance before". DISCOUNT Adult £2 (Student £1.50).

Get the same discount on the -  Online prepayment page.

 Even better value with a Season Ticket.
These will next be available at the door from November 29th for 2016.
ARRIVE ACCOMPANIED OR NOT – YOU ARE MOST WELCOME !
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AT A CONTRA, YOU WILL FIND LOTS OF DANCE PARTNERS.
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 MANY REGULAR DANCERS MIX WELL BETWEEN PARTNERS,
SHARING TIPS ABOUT THE DANCE MOVEMENTS.

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ALL THIS HELPS TO MAKE 
THE DANCING EVEN MORE FUN.  

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Picture
It's more fun if more come ! 
Let's encourage you !
DISCOUNTS
  are available for prepayment. 

1) Many like to: PREPAY AT THE DOOR
for their FOLLOWING  dance.
Saving of £2 per adult (£1.50 student).

2) The same saving is available below on line: via your own bank.

        FINISHING at the END OF MONDAY 26th October.                                 

PRICE - "On the door"  £9.00 
(Student £7.00) - 
Buy your ticket at the "dance before" for a DISCOUNT
Adult £2 (Student £1.50).

OR PREPAY  HERE !
[Meg's Oct Alcester Contra: 2ml from Gt Alne Hall: Fri 9 Oct: St Benedict's 8-11pm. Brooke Friendly from USA with Vertical Expression.]
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Sam  Grace  Nikki  Ozzy - Superb music : & a surprise bonus at earlier Brummie Contra. See their website - contra-alt-delete.co.uk 
Picture . . . . . . . . . . Charlie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Margaret. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . All of Vertical Expression in vibrant action on a brilliant evening at St Albans in October 2014.
  Latest POSTER HERE for THIS October 4th DANCE.   (One side print on an A4 sheet.) 
         Please encourage shared contra fun - by printing & distributing this latest poster for remaining 2015 dances. 
with Vertical Expression !
Vertical Expression. 
CLICK on blue to visit Vertical Expression's website.

Being justly acclaimed on the last day (Friday Aug 7th ) of his ace 3hr morning workshops in contras & squares at Sidmouth Folk Week, Tom Hinds from the USA concluded with this considerable complement to  Vertical Expression - 
" I don't know about you people   -   but for this dancing  -  THIS is the BEST music that I've heard ".
PictureUSA ............ At the NW Folk Festival in Seattle .............. Mary Devlin calling. CLICK ON whatever is in "BLUE" TO FOLLOW THE INTERNET LINKS.
Don't miss THIS "SPECIAL" occasion.

SUN 4th Oct  We welcome
Mary Devlin from the USA
to the brilliant pace -
of also especially invited -
 Vertical Expression -

[Meg's Oct Alcester Contra: 2ml from Gt Alne Hall: Fri 9 Oct: St Benedict's 8-11pm. Brooke Friendly from USA & Vertical Expression.]

OR   Early DISCOUNT- FPS - Fast Pay System via your bank -                    
         DISCOUNT Adult £2, Student £1.50  - (was called a BACS transfer) -
Available HERE - NOW !

-  Email form will be available until Friday 27th August  -
- with discount for -
Sunday 6th September's DANCE.
    
This method need not show ANY personal details on line!

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SUN 6th Sept Mark  Elvins   with  a FIRST CLASS "FIRST"
- The 1st together gig for - Minor Contravention.
Nicky, Ian & Charley

Nicky of "The Night Before" : Ian & Charley : we managed to nick from the brilliant "Vertical Expression". 
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In the garden, Halsway Manor 
Picture
Mark Elvins - Ace Caller : dance-writer
Sun 6th Sept  enjoy  -
Mark Elvins   -

PRICE - "On the door"  £8.50 
(Student £6.50) - 
Buy your ticket at the "dance before" for a DISCOUNT
Adult £2 (Student £1.50).

OR PREPAY  HERE !
Latest  (Fliers 4th August for 6th Sept dance)                              
 FLIERS HERE for this NEXT DANCE.  
 ( One side prints onto an A4 sheet. Cuts into 2 fliers.)   
Please encourage shared contra fun - by printing & distributing the fliers.  
With a FIRST - the dynamic
Minor Contravention
with 1st class contra-music -

   Ian & Charley : we've nicked from the brilliant "Vertical Expression".
            Nicky to wow-us with her wild fiddle from "The Night Before".           
   The mystery question everyone is asking: What instrument will Charley play?               
           Just come and see !   Share & enjoy dancing to their brilliant music !        
Picture
Ian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Charley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nicky.
The FORECAST: In every way a brilliantly COOL afternoon with as much high-energy dancing as YOU choose
Latest  (Fliers 22nd July for 6th Sept dance)                              
 FLIERS HERE for this NEXT DANCE.  
 ( One side prints onto an A4 sheet. Cuts into 2 fliers.)   
Please encourage shared contra fun - by printing & distributing the fliers.  
  Latest (Fliers 22nd July for 6th Sept dance)                                 
 FLIERS HERE for this NEXT DANCE.  
 ( One side prints onto A4 sheet. Cuts into 2 fliers.)   
Please encourage more shared contra fun by printing & distributing the fliers.  
PictureUSA ............ At the NW Folk Festival in Seattle .............. Mary Devlin calling.
Don't miss THIS either -   
SUN 4th Oct  We welcome
Mary Devlin from the USA
to the brilliant pace -
of also especially invited -
 Vertical Expression -

SUN 25th Oct  John Meechan with Brian Stone & Elaine.
Now SUN 29th Nov Jake Wood   with Double Dichotomy.
SUN 20th Dec  Kim Smith - Kim's Christmas Dance -

A fun "Brummie C's Variety Party" with Contras

You're at the  CONTRA what's that? page.
 Best come to sample the dances - find out what fun they are !

Contras are lively and friendly occasions. 
Expect a variety of partners.
You're here to enjoy. Variety is a great way to pick-up Contra-technique.
"Getting right" an unfamiliar dance: sure  -  that involves a bit of brain-work.
- But a few mistakes are part of the fun, and hardly matter :
- Just try for a fairly good recovery afterwards.  -  More about Contras below pic -
OR Early DISCOUNT- FPS - Fast Pay System via your bank - 
DISCOUNT Adult £2  - (was called a BACS transfer) -
will be available HERE - soon AFTER THIS SUNDAY'S DANCE !


-  Email form will be available until Friday 27th August  -
- with discount for -
Sunday 6th September's DANCE.
    
This method need not show ANY personal details on line!

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PRICE - "On the door"  £8.50 
(Student £6.50) - 

Buy at the "dance before" for a DISCOUNT

Adult £2 (Student £1.50).

     Annie with Les.                          Val dancing with Harry.
PRICE - "On the door"  £8.50 
(Student £6.50) - 

Buy at the "dance before" for a DISCOUNT Adult £2 (Student £1.50).

 Even better value with a Season Ticket available at the door.***
                                  Latest  ( 14th June for 28th June dance. )          
FLIERS for NEXT CONTRA - 28 JUNE HERE.
 ( Front & back A5 to print onto A4 sheet. Amended 19th June. )   
Encourage more shared contra fun by printing & distributing the fliers.  
Dance-Fliers for SUMMER CONTRA (12th JULY) HERE.
 ( Two A5 fliers print on ONE side of A4 : with 19 Jun amendment.)
Kindly do print & distribute these fliers too.  
Join us This coming Sunday Afternoon - July 12th -
 Enjoy our last of season Summer Special Dance.
      Lively Contras - but interspersed with more gentle material for this Summer afternoon.
PictureFrances -
             - our versatile caller.UR
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Diverse skills of your caller
Frances Richardson ********************************
Folkus Pocus
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-  will receive this magical musical touch from -
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On  July 12th -  join and enjoy our last of season Summer Special Dance.
      Lively Contras - but interspersed with more gentle material for this Summer afternoon.
PictureThe brilliant, vibrant duo Recursion in action - Grace on violin & Sam on bouzouki.

PictureCaller Geoff Cubitt
Geoff Cubitt CLICK FOR LINK calls THIS   Sunday 28th June
     Geoff's gentlemanly approach & exceptional competence has led to him having become -
     probably the most popular of Midland callers, at festivals, and every kind of event.
     A great dancer himself - you learn through lively dancing.
    
     Come along to find your personal dancing ability being extended at a great tempo.
     Discover how your dance can improve with a minimum of plodding about beforehand.

Your excellent musicians: Recursion. CLICK FOR LINK. Sam fired by amazing Grace's fearsome fiddle.



Picture
It's more fun if more come ! 
Let's encourage you ! DISCOUNTS  available for prepayment. 

1) Best deal: Season tickets are available at the door. (Details below)

2) You can: Prepay also at the door for the following dance
.
Saving of £2 per adult (£1.50 student).

3) Same saving TO BE available here on line, through your bank.
AFTER THIS COMING CONTRA DANCE

You prepay by Fast Payment Service. (Was called BACS.)
This webpage, & a discount form usually available during the week following a Brummie Contra.

OFFER WILL END - on an announced date, a week or so preceding the next contra.                                                                         

YOU WILL BE ABLE TO DOWNLOAD THE FORM YOU NEED HERE AFTER THE COMING DANCE.                                                       
AND THEN FPS PREPAY THROUGH YOUR BANK.                                                                                                                                      
YOU NEED REVEAL NO PERSONAL DETAILS WHATEVER ON LINE !                                                                                                        
 EMAIL to us your COMPLETED FORM FOR DISCOUNT ENTRY TO THE NEXT BRUMMIE CONTRA.....                                                     

  Enjoy ALL remaining (7) 2015 dances at £6.14 each (per Adult) !!
Buy 2015 Season ticket - now £43 - AT or up to the 28th June Dance.
LAST CHANCE - value. (£6.13 per dance) Much less than door, or prepaying every one.
This  "SEASON TICKET" still optionally available "at the door" - ONLY UNTIL 28th June.
*************************************************************************************************************************************
******************************************************************************************
On July 12th join and enjoy our last of season Summer Special Dance.
      Lively Contras - but interspersed with more gentle material for this Summer afternoon.
Picture
It's more fun if more come ! 
Let's encourage you ! DISCOUNTS  available for prepayment. 

1) Best deal: Season tickets are available at the door. (Details below)

2) You can: Prepay also at the door for the following dance
.
Saving of £2 per adult (£1.50 student).

3) Same saving available here on line, through your bank.
You prepay by Fast Payment Service. (Was called BACS.)
This webpage, & a discount form usually available during the week following a Brummie Contra.
OFFER WILL END - on an announced date, a week or so preceding the next contra.

DOWNLOAD & FILL IN CORRECTED FORM.   HERE                                                                  
FPS PREPAY THROUGH YOUR BANK.                                                                                                                           
               YOU NEED REVEAL NO PERSONAL DETAILS WHATEVER ON LINE !!                                                                                        
EMAIL to us your COMPLETED FORM FOR DISCOUNT ENTRY TO THE NEXT BRUMMIE CONTRA.....                                                               

HERE ABOVE : The Catholic Chaplaincy Hall - B15 3QS. Dances 2pm - 5:45pm Sundays.
For the MAY 17th DANCE, WE ARE BACK AT THE CHAPLAINCY HERE.

  Enjoy ALL remaining (7) 2015 dances at £6.14 each (per Adult) !!
Buy 2015 Season ticket - now £43 - AT or up to the 28th June Dance.
This is good value. (£6.13 per dance) Much less than door, or prepaying every one.
"SEASON TICKET" still optionally available "at the door" - on 28th June. 
OR Early DISCOUNT- FPS - Fast Pay System via your bank - 
DISCOUNT Adult £2  - (was called a BACS transfer) -
 Download prepayment form HERE 
- then click on the download icon of your device.
This should open the FORM for you to FILL-IN.
28th June dance - pay via your bank & email form -
by Saturday 20th June.
This method reveals NO personal details on line !
***************************************************
ARRIVE AT 1:30:  SHARE A SOCIABLE HOT DRINK COST INCL. 
ANOTHER IN THE LOUNGE IN THE INTERVAL. 
*******************************************************************     
PRICE - "On the door"  £8.50  (Student £6.50) - 
Buy at the "dance before". DISCOUNT Adult £2 (Student £1.50).
 Even better value with a Season Ticket available at the door.
PictureUSA ............ At the NW Folk Festival in Seattle .............. Mary Devlin calling.
                               DATES AHEAD -
SUN 17th May Lisa Heywood with ECDB. -
SUN 28th June Geoff Cubitt  with  Recursion -
SUN 12th July Frances  Richardson  with Folkus Pocus -
SUN 6th Sept Mark  Elvins   with  The Night  Before  tbc  -
SUN 27th Sept - DATE CANCELLED
DUE TO DOUBLE BOOKING OF HALL
     An awkward nuisance, but we  CAN  fit-in:
     
INSTEAD (don't miss THIS) ON -
        
SUN 4th Oct  We welcome
Mary Devlin from the USA
to the brilliant pace again -
of especially invited -
 Vertical Expression -

SUN 25th Oct  John Meechan with Brian Stone & Elaine.
SUN 22nd Nov Jake Wood   with  Double Dichotomy.
SUN 20th Dec  Kim Smith - Kim's Christmas Dance-Party with Contras

Enjoy ALL remaining (8) 2015 dances at £5.87 each (per Adult) !!

Buy 2015 Season ticket - now £47 - AT or up to the 17th May Dance.
This is good value.  Much less than prepaying every one.
"SEASON TICKET" still optionally available "at the door" - on 17th May. 

  On Sun 17th May
- lively, increasingly popular
Lisa Heywood  she is - BACK to guide you through:-
PictureGareth and Linda - ECDB

with Gareth & Linda:
 The  English Contra Dance Band  
 
You can always "click on blue" on this website. Above -  a you tube link. The video sound has one of ECDB Linda's best musical extemporisations.
It's around the memorable tune for (a French-Canadian dance) "La Bastringue". 
[Here, Copenhagen's "older generation" enjoy ECDB's superb Contra-music.]

Picture
Lisa Heywood Caller
******************************************************************************************
On May 17th we enjoy again the acclaimed English Contra Dance Band.
      Deservedly established: ECDB are much sought after for dances, festivals & Halsway.
[Meg's next Alcester Contra: is 2ml from Gt Alne Hall: at St Benedict's 8-11pm. Enjoy Rhodri: with Stingrays from USA Fri 15 May.]
[ Tickets £2 discount/Adult form: Faster Payment Service (BACS) for above 17th May dance - available here from now to 11th May.]
********************************************************************************************************************************
FOR NEXT BRUMMIE CONTRA: 28th June. This page with FPS DISCOUNT: AVAILABLE UNTIL 20th June.  DOWNLOAD FORM. 
                                                                                                                                                  You're at the HOME page.
Bonus Contra : THIS Friday 24th : Great Alne Memorial Hall.
(2 miles from Alcester)  :   B49 6HL   :   8pm - 10:45  :  £7.
JAKE WOOD is calling : Music from the: Cole Valley Ceilidh Band.
Join also ? Breton Set Dances 5:10pm. Meal at 6. Easy dancing 7:30. 10:45pm LNE French. 
A 4 day Long Weekend: Dance, part-song, lots more.
Further Social Dancing on Sat & Sun evenings : Website HERE.  
PictureMartin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Elaine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kathryn
GOOD FRIDAY AFTERNOON   3rd April                                        
 BOB MORGAN      with     PORTLAND DRIVE -                                                   

This dance on Friday afternoon is at  Dame Elizabeth Cadbury Hall, BOURNVILLE          

CORRECTED POSTCODE
 B30 1UA.
A4 advertising poster HERE 
(- Same venue as for Bob's calling on Good Friday in 2014 - but this year an AFTERNOON event.)


Elaine and Kathryn will be very well known to contra dancers via brilliant gigs with Skylark.

Tickets £2 discount per Adult form:  Faster Payment Service pay for above 3rd April dance. Form AVAILABLE HERE .
********************************************************************************************************************************
£2 discount per Adult. DISCOUNT AND : Form AVAILABLE HERE  NOW until 2pm Thursday - 2nd April.
********************************************************************************************************************************
HERE ABOVE : The Catholic Chaplaincy Hall - B15 3QS. Dances 2pm - 5:45pm Sundays.
For the MAY 17th DANCE, WE ARE BACK AT THE CHAPLAINCY HERE.
-  BUT FIRST WE DANCE on Apr 3 in BOURNVILLE to BOB & "PORTLAND DRIVE".
DETAILS BELOW: or CLICK HERE for the GOOD FRIDAY AFTERNOON Page.
CLICK HERE for the GOOD FRIDAY AFTERNOON Page.

M CLICK HERE for the GOOD FRIDAY AFTERNOON Page.
May 17th we enjoy again the acclaimed
English Contra Dance Band.

      D
eservedly established:
ECDB are much sought after for dances, festivals & Halsway.
**************************************************
Sorry if you missed Sun 1st March's brill Brummie Contra.
MANY SAID IT WAS THE BEST ONE WE'VE HAD TO DATE: 
************************************************
Geoff Cubitt  had called with -

 Double Dichotomy (Vic & Mollie) -
- who will be back again in Nov.
***************************************************
         Latest (9th March)          
 2015-Dance-Fliers HERE.  
 (Front & back A5 prints onto A4 sheet)     
**************************************************
Sorry if you missed Sun 1st March's brill Brummie Contra.
MANY SAID IT WAS THE BEST ONE WE'VE HAD TO DATE: 
************************************************
Geoff Cubitt  had called with -

 Double Dichotomy (Vic & Mollie) -
- who will be back again in Nov.
***************************************************
         Latest (9th March)          
 2015-Dance-Fliers HERE.  
 (Front & back A5 prints onto A4 sheet)     
PictureLisa Heywood Caller
On Sun 22nd March 
- lively, increasingly popular
Lisa Heywood calls - she will guide you through:-

PictureGareth and Linda - ECDB

with Gareth & Linda:
 The  English Contra Dance Band  
 
You can always "click on blue" on this website. Above -  a you tube link. The video sound has one of ECDB Linda's best musical extemporisations.
It's around the memorable tune for (a French-Canadian dance) "La Bastringue". 
[Here, Copenhagen's "older generation" enjoy ECDB's superb Contra-music.]

- These Dances - mainly in American Contra style.
Mix with other dancers, and they're NOT hard to pick-up.    ******************************
HERE ABOVE : The Catholic Chaplaincy Hall - B15 3QS. Dances 2pm - 5:45pm Sundays.
NEXT -   We welcome the memorable English Contra Dance Band.
Deservedly established: ECDB are much sought after for dances, festivals & Halsway.
PictureUSA ............ At the NW Folk Festival in Seattle .............. Mary Devlin calling.
                               DATES AHEAD -
SUN 17th May Lisa Heywood with ECDB. -
SUN 28th June Geoff Cubitt with Recursion -
SUN 12th July Frances Richardson with Folkus Pocus -
SUN 6th Sept Lisa Heywood  with The Night Before  tbc  -
SUN 27th Sept - DATE CANCELLED
DUE TO DOUBLE BOOKING OF HALL
     An awkward nuisance, but we  CAN  fit-in:
   
INSTEAD (don't miss THIS) ON -
        
SUN 4th Oct  We welcome
- Mary Devlin from the USA
to the brilliant pace again -
of especially invited -
 Vertical Expression -

SUN 25th Oct  John Meechan with Brian Stone & Elaine.
SUN 22nd Nov tbc   with  Double Dichotomy -
SUN 20th Dec  Kim Smith - Kim's Christmas Dance-Party with Contras

Enjoy ALL remaining (10) 2015 dances at £5.50 each (per Adult) !!

Buy 2015 Season ticket - now £55 - AT or up to the 22nd Mar Dance.
This is good value.  Much less than prepaying every one.
You would need to miss 3 of the dances before this Season Ticket exceeds the door cost for the rest.
"SEASON TICKET" still optionally available "at the door" - 22nd March & 3rd Apr. 

Whyever leave a date with "to be announced"? Surely that guy can get a band booked for then ! ! ?
A forming-band needs a few opportunities: likewise those "new" callers yet to attain status of recognition. You may reckon - despite life's uncertainties - to know where YOU will be based in 6 or 12 months' time !
Many in full-time education or research are able to plan around FEW such certainties!

May Contra-dancing's versatility continue to unite those thankful that "they still are just about able" -
with wonderful fresh musical & dance dynamism from some bands/callers yet to become recognised.
And may our brilliant established Contra bands and callers long continue!
**************************************************
Sorry if you missed Sunday's (!st Mar)
brilliant gig with Brummie Contras.
NB - A CHANGE FROM A MUCH EARLIER PUBLISHED DATE:
 
************************************************
Sunday 1st Mar 2pm to 5.45pm.
Geoff Cubitt  calling with -

 Double Dichotomy (Vic & Mollie)
Who are also much enjoyed when playing together in -
 Fat Harry & in Corporate Fiddle. 
***************************************************
All DATES below - 
PictureCaller Geoff Cubitt
Geoff Cubitt calls: Sunday 1st March with Double Dichotomy

     Geoff's gentlemanly approach & exceptional competence has led to him having become -
     probably the most popular of Midland callers, at festivals, and every kind of event.


    A great dancer himself - you learn through lively dancing.
    Your personal dancing ability becomes extended with minimum of plodding about beforehand
.



PictureMollie of Double Dichotomy
     you're at the  HOME  page.      
  HERE at the Catholic Chaplaincy Hall - above
Dances 2:00 - 5:45pm Sundays.
 - Energetic afternoons -  at  B15 3QS.     
  48 bus stop 1 min. 
University Rail Station 12min walk.
  click for - Rail / walk / bus details HERE.  
- At The NEXT Brummie Contra -
Double Dichotomy: with a brilliant pace & versatility - Well known from Sidmouth, Broadstairs & Towersey. -
(When playing with Ali, they're known as "Fat Harry".)



Picture
Vic of Double Dichotomy
Possibility of Sunday roadworks nearby. Yesterday (Fri) eve, part of Somerset Road to the South of Harrison's Rd was shut.
Pritchatt's Rd, Richmond Hill Rd & the complete crescent of Farquhar Rd being fully open: access to Harrison's Road was THEN from its Richmond Hill Rd end. So some may need a very short detour. MAP page. There's a bright, sunny forecast for your mid-day journey.



Some may enjoy a particular contrasting dance. 
To request your favourite “contrasting” dance,
    state any preference (include on your email prepay-form) by Friday 20th Feb.
****************************************************************
OR Early DISCOUNT- pay via your bank - BACS transfer -
 Download prepayment form HERE 
- then click on the download icon of your device.
This should open the FORM for you to FILL-IN.
1st Mar dance - pay via your bank & email form -
by Friday 20th Feb.
***************************************************
[ Per adult £2 discount form to facilitate BACS payment for above - 22nd March dance - to be available here from 2nd to 16th March.]
********************************************************************************************************************************
                               DATES AHEAD -
SUN 17th May Lisa Heywood & ECDB. -
SUN 28th June Geoff Cubitt & Recursion -
SUN 12th July Frances Richardson & Folkus Pocus -
SUN 6th Sept Lisa Heywood & The Night Before  tbc  -
SUN 27th Sept - DATE CANCELLED DUE TO DOUBLE BOOKING OF HALL !
INSTEAD WE HAVE ON -
SUN 4th Oct  tbc & Vertical Expression -
                      - for this, a VERY high probability that we may enjoy an American caller.
SUN 25th Oct  John Meechan with Brian Stone & Elaine.
SUN 22nd Nov  .... yet to be announced!
SUN 20th Dec  Kim Smith - Kim's Christmas Dance-Party with Contras.

Enjoy ALL remaining (11) 2015 dances at £5.36 each !!

Buy 2015 Season ticket (£59) up to, or AT the 1st Mar dance.
This is good value.  Only if you find that you miss 2 of the dances does this  become even equivalent to prepaying every one.
You would need to miss 4 of the dances before this Season Ticket exceeds the door cost for the rest.
"SEASON TICKET" will be optionally available "at the door" - 1st & 22nd March. 
PictureMartin...............................................................Elaine..............................................................Kathryn
GOOD FRIDAY 3rd Apr
  BOB MORGAN with PORTLAND DRIVE -  


This dance on Friday afternoon at  Dame Elizabeth Cadbury Hall, BOURNVILLE 
 B30 1BU.
(- Same venue as for Bob's calling on Good Friday in 2014 - but this year an AFTERNOON event.)


Elaine and Kathryn will be very well known to contra dancers via brilliant gigs with Skylark.

GOOD FRIDAY 3rd Apr  Bob Morgan with tbc -  (VENUE AS WAS GOOD FRIDAY 2014)
This dance on Friday afternoon at  Dame Elizabeth Cadbury Hall, BOURNVILLE   B30 1BU.

SUN 17th May Lisa Heywood & ECDB. -
SUN 28th June Geoff Cubitt & Recursion -
SUN 12th July Frances Richardson & Folkus Pocus -
SUN 6th Sept Lisa Heywood & The Night Before  tbc  -
SUN 27th Sept - DATE CANCELLED BECAUSE OF DOUBLE BOOKING OF HALL !
SUN 4th Oct  tbc & Vertical Expression -
                      - for this, there's a high probability that we may enjoy an American caller.
SUN 25th Oct  tbc with Brian Stone & Elaine.
SUN 22nd Nov  .... yet to be announced!
SUN 20th Dec  Kim Smith - Kim's Christmas Dance-Party with Contras.

Enjoy ALL remaining (11) 2015 dances at £5.36 each !!

Buy 2015 Season ticket (£59) up to 1st Mar dance.
This is good value.  Only if you find that you miss 2 of the dances does this become equivalent to prepaying every one.
You would need to miss 4 of the dances before this Season Ticket exceeds the door cost for the rest.
SEASON TICKET will be an option available "at the door" - 1st & 22nd March. 
Picture
PictureLisa Heywood Caller
****************************************
Sunday 22nd Mar 2pm to 5.45pm.

Lisa Heywood calls

with Linda & Gareth: the
 English Contra Dance Band   
"click on blue" - 
For some of their music on "my-space"
**************************************

Picture
Sunday 1st Mar - Geoff Cubitt
Geoff's gentlemanly approach & exceptional competence has led to him having become -
probably the most popular of Midland callers, at festivals, and every kind of event.
A great dancer himself - you learn through lively dancing.
Your personal dancing ability becomes extended with minimum of plodding about beforehand.

                      Double Dichotomy have brilliant pace & versatility -
                                       Well known from their playing at Sidmouth, Broadstairs & Towersey.

American style  - Brummie Contras - Energetic afternoons -Dates below- 
Picture
you're at  HOME  page     Dances 2:00 - 5:45pm Sundays.
HERE at the Catholic Chaplaincy Hall.   B15 3QS. 
48 bus stop 1 min.  University Rail Station 12min walk. Rail / walk / bus details.

Picture
Sunday 1st Mar - Geoff Cubitt
Geoff's gentlemanly approach & exceptional competence has led to him having become -
probably the most popular of Midland callers, at festivals, and every kind of event.
A great dancer himself - you learn through lively dancing.
Your personal dancing ability becomes extended, with a minimum of plodding about first.

                      Double Dichotomy have brilliant pace & versatility -
                                       Well known from their playing at Sidmouth, Broadstairs & Towersey.

         Latest (2nd Feb)  2015-Dance-Fliers HERE.  
 (Front & back a5 prints on A4 sheet)     
you're at  HOME  page
HERE a
t the Catholic Chaplaincy Hall.   B15 3QS.   Dances 2:00 - 5:45pm Sundays.

48 bus stop 1 min.   University Rail Station 12min walk.   Rail / walk / bus details.
Our caller guides you through dances mainly in
American Contra style.
 
Some may enjoy a particular contrasting dance.  
To request your favourite “contrasting” dance,
    state any preference (include on your email prepay-form) by Friday 20th Feb.   


Our caller guides you through dances mainly in American Contra style.
 
[ Some may enjoy a particular contrasting dance.  
To request your favourite “contrasting” dance,
    state any preference, email prepay-form by 17th Jan. ]


NEXT ONE - Sunday 25th Jan 2.00pm to 5.45pm.
Jake Wood calls: and we have THREE full dancing hours of the acclaimed -
AMAZING Vertical Expression  playing. "Click on blue".
*******************************************************************************************
  The UK's BEST LOVED CONTRA & Ceilidh BAND - at "BRUMMIE CONTRAS".
 - A GOOD-WEATHER DAY TO TRAVEL HERE - DON'T MISS -
- THIS SUNDAY AFTERNOON - DANCE - & SHARE THE UNIQUE MUSICAL JOY OF -
'Vertical Expression' for more about them on line "Click" on the blue.
Walk from University Station.
A pleasant pedestrian/cycling alternative to following the 48 bus route. Starting through the Hospital grounds.
Walk West from University Station to the main entrance of the NEW QE Hospital. Fruit stalls available outside.
Outside the entrance turn North (right) to walk under the massive overhead hosptals' link bridge.
At the road continue North (along a very short length of Mindelsohn Way).
You walk past the Women's Hospital, and a large statue, as you continue North, when Mindelsohn Way turns East.
You have now reached its cycle and pedestrian end-access, and continue along Metchley Park Road.
Sports fields are now behind hedges & trees to either side, continuing North up Metchley Park Rd.
At the roundabout (c250 yds) turn right briefly into Somerset Rd, then left into Harrison's Rd.
The view at the head of the pages is then a few steps along on your left.



"American Contras" are played in energetic style. You're helped in each dance through its sequence of moves by our caller.
Every contra dance has its very own series of moves which you repeat with each couple that you meet as you move along.
That's down the set, and away from the caller if you begin as "ones" (that's facing down as you start "hands 4").

Movements are generally fairly smooth and slick -   without the step-hops of many ceilidh dances.
Some like to extemporise in Contra - often by adding spins and twirls.

Contras are a great occasion for the young and keen.
Many still very keen on this dancing, but wishing they were younger !
A few maintain a very gentle style - recovering from injury, or because they enjoy the company & music but wish to dance at their pace.
                                                    you're at CONTRA what's that ? page.
Why don't you come along. Sample these dances to find out what it's like !
Contras are lively and friendly occasions. You're here to enjoy.
"Getting right" an unfamiliar dance involves a bit of brainwork too - but a few mistakes hardly matter.
A fairly good recovery afterwards is the fun challenge.

"American style contras" are energetic - you're helped in each dance through its sequence of moves by our caller.
Every contra dance has its very own series of moves which you repeat with each couple that you meet as you move along.
That's down the set, and away from the caller if you begin as "ones" (that's facing down as you start "hands 4").
Movements are generally fairly smooth and slick, without the step-hops of many ceilidh dances.
Some like to extemporise in Contra - often by adding spins and twirls.
Contras are a great occasion for the young and keen. Many are very keen on this dancing, but wishing they were younger !
A few maintain a very gentle style - recovering from injury, or because they enjoy the company & music but wish to dance at their pace.
  The UK's BEST KNOWN CONTRA & Ceilidh BAND - at "BRUMMIE CONTRAS".
  Be sure to get here on 25th Jan to enjoy -
'Vertical Expression' for more about them on line "Click" on the blue.
  The BEST KNOWN CONTRA BAND in the UK  -  at "BRUMMIE CONTRAS".
  Be sure to get here on 25th Jan to enjoy -
'Vertical Expression' for more about them on line "Click" on the blue.





The first Brummie Contra (a week before the 2014 Long Weekend) was in Bournville Birmingham -
Bob Morgan last April gave a lively Evening of
AMERICAN CONTRA with CONTRAST:
calling to the brilliant band “Recursion” (Sam & Grace) on their superb first evening of playing for a Dance.
 *****************************************************************************************************************
*************************************************************************************************************************
Meg's Alcester Contra (2ml from Gt Alne Hall) Fri 9th Jan: St Benedict's 8-11pm. Colin Hume & Folkus Pocus.
 *************************************************************************************************************************
ARRIVE ACCOMPANIED OR NOT – YOU'RE WELCOMED ! AT CONTRAS YOU'VE LOTS OF DANCE PARTNERS.
Most contra dancers like to improve skills by regular partner changes after 1 or 2 dances.
Anyone asks anyone else to dance – Go for it !

OR Get EARLY-pay DISCOUNT via your bank:  BACS transfer: - Download prepayment form HERE 
- then click on the download icon of your device.
This should open the FORM for you to FILL-IN.
25th Jan dance - email it by 19th Jan.

Our caller guides you through dances mainly in American Contra style.

  Some may enjoy a contrasting favourite Dance.
To request your favourite “contrasting” dance,
    state any preference - and email form by 17th Jan.


GOOD FRIDAY 3rd Apr Bob Morgan with tbc -  (SAME VENUE AS GOOD FRIDAY 2014)
This dance ONLY will be on Friday afternoon at the Dame Elizabeth Cadbury Hall in BOURNVILLE (B30 1BU).

SUN 17th May Lisa Heywood & ECDB. -
SUN 28th June Geoff Cubitt & Recursion -
SUN 12th July Frances Richardson & Folkus Pocus -
SUN 6th Sept Lisa Heywood & The Night Before tbc -
SUN 27th Sept Jake Wood & ECDB. -
SUN 25th Oct  ....   yet to be announced!
SUN 22nd Nov  .... yet to be announced!
SUN 20th Dec  ..... yet to be announced!
Enjoy ALL remaining (12) 2015 dances at £5.17 each !! Buy 2015 Season ticket (£62) up to 25th Jan dance.
This remains VERY good value: BETTER value than individual dance PREpayment - even if you find that you miss 2 or 3 of the dances.
You would need to miss 5 of the dances before this Season Ticket exceeds the door cost for the rest.
SEASON TICKET is an option available "at the door" on 25th Jan & 1st March. 

HERE at the Catholic Chaplaincy Hall.      B15 3QS.           2:00pm to 5:45pm, Sunday afternoons.
ARRIVE 1.30.  SHARE A SOCIABLE HOT DRINK COST INCLUDED, IN THE LOUNGE.   ALSO IN INTERVAL.       
  "On the door" £8.50 (student £6.50) -  Commit by prepaying and get a DISCOUNT -  
Adult £2 (Student £1.50) discount if you buy your ticket at the "dance before".
   
Were you here? At this year's 1st superb Brummie Contra ! Sharing Bob's brilliant, fun, "Northern Lights"?
Be sure to come on 25th Jan. Enjoy probably -
The MOST POPULAR CONTRA BAND in the UK at BRUMMIE CONTRAS -
        " Vertical Expression " for more on line "Click on blue".



"On the door" £8.50 (student £6.50) - Prepay EARLY -  get a £2 DISCOUNT ! Download prepayment form HERE 
- then click on your download icon. This should open a form for you to fill-in by 15th Oct.
You are equally welcome with; or to arrive without a dancing partner. 
Most contra dancers choose to improve skills by regularly changing dance partners after each one or two dances. 
Our callers guide you through dances mainly in American Contra style.
  Some coming may enjoy a contrasting favourite Dance.
To request your favourite “contrasting” dance, state any preference on the downloaded form.
Latest (5th Jan) 2015-Dances-Poster HERE. 
You weren't there? You MISSED Bob's "Northern Lights" & your 1st SUPERB BRUMMIE CONTRA of 2015 ?
So come on 25th Jan to enjoy: probably -
The MOST POPULAR CONTRA BAND in the UK at BRUMMIE CONTRAS -
        " Vertical Expression " for more on line "Click on blue".
Lively American style  Brummie Contras: 2015 Dates below -
GOOD FRIDAY 3rd Apr Bob Morgan with tbc -
SUN 17th May Lisa Heywood & ECDB. -
SUN 28th June Geoff Cubitt & Recursion -
SUN 12th July Frances Richardson & Folkus Pocus -
SUN 6th Sept Lisa Heywood & The Night Before tbc -
SUN 27th Sept Jake Wood & ECDB. -
SUN 25th Oct  ....   yet to be announced!
SUN 22nd Nov  .... yet to be announced!
SUN 20th Dec  ..... yet to be announced!
How to enjoy all of these (13) 2015 dances at £6 each? Buy the 2015 Season ticket (at £78) by 2nd Jan.



"On the door" £8.50 (student £6.50) - Prepay EARLY - Get a £2 DISCOUNT !  Form & instructions BELOW. 




 Download prepayment form: click HERE 
- then click on your download icon. This opens a fill-in form to give discounts by 15th Oct.
Give us no bank details. Contact your bank by phone, visit, or internet. Pay by BACS into our account.
********************************************************************************************************************************************************
Our callers guide you through dances mainly in American Contra style.
  Some coming may enjoy a contrasting favourite Dance.
To request your favourite “contrasting” dance, state any preference on the downloaded form.
an Extra and extra-friendly Brummie Chrissie Dance 
With MANY varied dances at an INTRODUCTORY LEVEL for those coming for Christmassy dancing fun -
 Please come to give CONTRA-DANCING a TRY. And there's 3 or 4 essential lively contras for we addicts.
Sunday 21st Dec 2.00pm to 5.15pm.
Longtime appreciated - Kim Smith brings Sung Squares,
and an introduction to Contras and much MORE.
Due to this being very close to Christmas, not many bands are available.
So this event will go ahesd to recorded music, with a lower adult door price of £7.
(And a reduced rate for early ticket payments.)

Arrivals from 1.30 get a hot drink in the lounge.
Another hot drink and a minced pie will be included in the interval.



*****************************************************************************************************************
First Brummie Contra (a week before the 2014 Gt Alne Long Weekend) was in Bournville Birmingham -
Bob Morgan in April gave a lively Evening of
AMERICAN CONTRA with CONTRAST:
calling to the brilliant band “Recursion” (Sam & Grace) on their superb first evening of playing for a Dance.

We WILL put on more of these events !

Keep taking an occasional look at this website!
Share another great "Brummie Contra" soon.
American style Contras in B'ham
We intend these  Brummie Contras to be more frequent !
Our next is from 7.30 to 11.00pm on -
Friday 5th Sept at St Anne's Hall, Moseley, B13 8DU:
(where Friday Folk normally meet.) - Our flier is HERE.

Park car on Park Hill (road outside). Walk through lych gate, past prominent church, to hall behind.
your caller is Lisa Heywood of Sheffield Uni,
with music from Warwick Uni's "The Night Before"  (Nicky, Alan & Adam)
Early discounted payment by BACS will shortly be available HERE !
***************************************************************************************************************
Next Contra date at B13 8DU: Friday 2nd Jan 2015: St Anne's Hall, Moseley.
But do keep checking this webpage.
We're seeking an advantageous Hall to trial some Autumn Contras on Sunday late afternoons.

 **************************************************************************************************************
The first (held a week before the 2014 Long Weekend) was in Bournville Birmingham -
Bob Morgan in April gave a lively Evening of
AMERICAN CONTRA with CONTRAST:
calling to the brilliant band “Recursion” (Sam & Grace) on their superb first evening of playing for a Dance.


We WILL put on more of these events !

Keep taking an occasional look at this website!
And share another great "Brummie Contra" soon.
American style Contras in B'ham
We intend these  Brummie Contras to be more frequent !
Our next is from 7.30 to 11.00pm on -
Friday 5th Sept at St Anne's Hall, Moseley, B13 8DU:
(where Friday Folk normally meet.) - Our flier is HERE.

Park car on Park Hill (road outside). Walk through lych gate, past prominent church, to hall behind.
your caller is Lisa Heywood of Sheffield Uni,
with music from Warwick Uni's "The Night Before"  (Nicky, Alan & Adam)
Early discounted payment by BACS will shortly be available HERE !
***************************************************************************************************************
Next Contra date at B13 8DU: Friday 2nd Jan 2015: St Anne's Hall, Moseley.
But do keep checking this webpage.
We're seeking an advantageous Hall to trial some Autumn Contras on Sunday late afternoons.

 **************************************************************************************************************
The first (held a week before the 2014 Long Weekend) was in Bournville Birmingham -
Bob Morgan in April gave a lively Evening of
AMERICAN CONTRA with CONTRAST:
calling to the brilliant band “Recursion” (Sam & Grace) on their superb first evening of playing for a Dance.


We WILL put on more of these events !

Keep taking an occasional look at this website!
And share another great "Brummie Contra" soon.
Information about this dance series -
"On the door" £8.50 (student £6.50) - Download prepayment form HERE - then click on your download icon. 
This should open a form for you to fill-in by 15th Oct. The earliest prepayments get a £2 DISCOUNT !
You are equally welcome with; or to arrive without a dancing partner. 
Most contra dancers choose to improve skills by regularly changing dance partners after each one or two dances. 
Our callers guide you through dances mainly in American Contra style.
  Some coming may enjoy a contrasting favourite Dance.
To request your favourite “contrasting” dance, state any preference on the downloaded form.



Latest (5th Jan) 2015-Dances-Poster HERE. 
You weren't there? You MISSED Bob's "Northern Lights" & your 1st SUPERB BRUMMIE CONTRA of 2015

So come on 25th Jan to enjoy: probably -
THE MOST POPULAR CONTRA BAND IN THE UK at BRUMMIE CONTRAS -
        " Vertical Expression " for more on line "Click on blue".
Contra with Contrast.
Early payment at discount by Bank transfer:
Form will next download to your computer in Microsoft Format:
Do the transfer yourself in a few days. First CLICK for your - Early Payment for Dance form
(Explanations are on the form: or first read the BACS page.)
(You send us NO personal bank details whatever.)
You will receive in 2-7 days, your personal code as an emailed individual reference (eg 00/14 Smith.M).
You refer to this code with the specified part of your name, on arranging your own bank credit transfer:
(usually by a phone call, or by internet banking).
Should you find any problems, please Contact us HERE
American style Contras in B'ham
We intend these  Brummie Contras to be more frequent !
Our next is from 7.30 to 11.00pm on -
Friday 5th Sept at St Anne's Hall, Moseley, B13 8DU:
(where Friday Folk normally meet.) - Our flier is HERE.

Park car on Park Hill (road outside). Walk through lych gate, past prominent church, to hall behind.
your caller is Lisa Heywood of Sheffield Uni,
with music from Warwick Uni's "The Night Before"  (Nicky, Alan & Adam)
Early discounted payment by BACS will shortly be available HERE !
***************************************************************************************************************
Next Contra date at B13 8DU: Friday 2nd Jan 2015: St Anne's Hall, Moseley.
But do keep checking this webpage.
We're seeking an advantageous Hall to trial some Autumn Contras on Sunday late afternoons.

 **************************************************************************************************************
The first (held a week before the 2014 Long Weekend) was in Bournville Birmingham -
Bob Morgan in April gave a lively Evening of
AMERICAN CONTRA with CONTRAST:
calling to the brilliant band “Recursion” (Sam & Grace) on their superb first evening of playing for a Dance.


We WILL put on more of these events !

Keep taking an occasional look at this website!
And share another great "Brummie Contra" soon.
Latest (25th Nov)  Fliers HERE !   Print 2 in A5 onto an A4 sheet
A4Poster   here !  (Latest: as on 25th Nov)
Fliers - also show for your diary - All eleven 2015 Brummie-Contra Dates to next October.
Whyever leave dates with "to be announced"? Surely that guy can get a band booked for then! ! ?
A forming-band needs a few opportunities: likewise those "new" callers yet to attain status of recognition. You may reckon - despite life's uncertainties - to know where YOU will be based in 6 or 12 months' time !
Many in full-time education or research are able to plan around FEW such certainties!
May Contra-dancing's versatility continue to unite those thankful that they still are just about able -
with wonderful fresh musical & dance dynamism from some bands/callers yet to become recognised.
And may our brilliant established Contra bands and callers long continue!
************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** 
PREPAY now for ALL 2016 dances. ONLY £5.39 EACH. 13 dances - £70.
Download prepayment form: click HERE 
- Then click on your download icon. This opens a fill-in form to give you a discount up to ???15th Oct.
Give us no bank details. Contact your bank by phone, visit, or internet. Pay by BACS into our account.
********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
  Some coming may perhaps enjoy a contrasting Dance which they know or like.
To request your favourite “contrasting” dance, state it at the "dance before".
********************************************************************************************************************************************************






************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** 
PREPAY now for ALL 2016 dances. ONLY £5.39 EACH. 13 dances - £70.
Download prepayment form: click HERE 
- Then click on your download icon. This opens a fill-in form to give you a discount up to ???15th Oct.
Give us no bank details. Contact your bank by phone, visit, or internet. Pay by BACS into our account.
********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
  Some coming may perhaps enjoy a contrasting Dance which they know or like.
To request your favourite “contrasting” dance, state it at the "dance before".
********************************************************************************************************************************************************






on: Friday 2nd Jan 2015
2.15pm to 5.45pm.
Bob Morgan calls: Recursion playing -

once again in their awesome foursome !
Latest (5th Jan) 2015-Dances-Poster HERE. 
You weren't there? You MISSED Bob's "Northern Lights" & your 1st SUPERB BRUMMIE CONTRA of 2015

So come on 25th Jan to enjoy: probably -
THE MOST POPULAR CONTRA BAND IN THE UK at BRUMMIE CONTRAS -
        " Vertical Expression " for more on line "Click on blue".
************************************************************************************************************************
At our Contras, you've often seen Recursion playing. Click on the "blue" to enjoy some of their music.
Better still, dance to the brilliance of Sam & Grace with Nikki & Ozzy at our next energetic Brummie-Contra.
 ************************************************************************************************************************
Below -  for your diary - All (13) 2015 Brummie-Contra Dates to next December.
A4 poster showing ALL these dates HERE.  (28th Dec. with PRICE UPDATE.)
on: Friday 2nd Jan 2015

Bob Morgan calls: Recursion4 playing.
 ****************************************************
A BONUS Chrissie Dance with Contras for you:
Extra Brummie Chrissie Dance with Kim Smith:

Sunday 21st Dec 2.00pm to 5.15pm.
   *****************************************************************************************************************************
BE THERE ! - this FRIDAY afternoon: 2nd Jan. Your FIRST BRUMMIE CONTRA of 2015
ENJOY STARTING YOUR DANCING YEAR with BOB & this DYNAMIC NEW CONTRA FOURSOME.
 Latest (28th Dec) 2-Dance-Poster HERE. Details of the TWO BRUMMIE CONTRAS in JANUARY -
Picture
FOLKUS POCUS: . . . Dan . . . and . . . Caroline
Return to  TOP OF THE HOME  Page

CONTACT US page

​I / we wish to be AT THE NEXT DANCE
Page with details to get £1.50 each off door price next time.
Also deadlines (to check before you email).
For a group, download a form to complete & email.


Go to Great Alne Long Weekend website -
24th -27th April in 2020 for its DETAILS.

Event doubly extends the last w/e of April in 2020 
Quality workshops for ALL ages / abilities.
Enjoy a contra here on the Friday eve.
Karin Bellaart from the NETHERLANDS will also bring all kinds of lovely INTERNATIONAL DANCES as Nel did in 2017 & 2018.

EXCELLENT PART-SONG & A WIDE RANGE of OTHER DANCING.

Bring (grand)children. Share Maypole/Morris dances & ring handbell tunes from before noon on Sat & Sun.
NEW IN 2018 - EXTRA Sat/Sun PRICE DROPPED for ADULT DANCERS and THEIR ACCOMPANIED u18's

( The Great Alne Long Weekend is a "sister" website to this one) -
 click-on to go to one of these pages - 

ELMDON HEATH CC/RAIL/BUS  - Page especially to help with Rail Station connections, and Sunday bus services to Elmdon Heath Community Centre Hall.


See ROUTEMAPS:DOWNLOAD&PRINT -
 - Page has maps for car, bus stops, bike path & walking routes -
- to the   -  Elmdon Heath Community Centre venue. Download this to a smartphone to carry to walk from bus etc,
(or print on paper) to carry: even in the car. Ideal for initial visits. 




 CONTRA - What's that !   -  Information Page,


 But I've never really done this stuff before !  - Information Page.
DANCE DATES page
​  
FLIERS for NEXT BRUMMIE CONTRA pages. These may Pop-up : often below Dance DATES.
They are in pdf. You may view or DOWNLOAD.
If you would like to share out the fun of the "Brummie Contra" dances - then (regularly please) download, print - and distribute a few of these fliers in your area & dance club.
For some Contras to come, a flier page pop-up may show below other main pages or elsewhere !