Folk Yes: Get ready for a good time with the Monaro Folk Society

Posted on 2 February, 2023

We’ve all done some bush dancing in a sweaty Year Seven gym class—but when was the last time you did a good ol’ heel and toe or strip the willow?

The team at Monaro Folk Society regularly run public dancing events (including at Stage 88 each Monday evening this month) where you can do-si-do your way through the night and maybe even learn a fun trick or two.

From beginner dancers to the experienced, The Monaro Folk Society’s events are designed to make sure everyone, including even the little ones in your family, feel comfortable and have a good time and happen at a range of Canberra locations across the week.

“A person known as a Caller will walk everyone through the dance and make sure everyone’s got a clear idea of how to do it,” explains President of the Monaro Folk Society, David Ball. “And then once everyone’s feeling comfortable enough to give it a go the music will start.”

It’s not just any old Spotify playlist, either. A big part of the fun is getting to dance to a live band that performs throughout the night.

From the accordion to the fiddle (with a healthy dash of mandolin, flute and bass guitar thrown into the mix) you won’t want to stop moving once the band gets going.

Bush dancing is not the only type of movement on offer either, with Tuesday nights (held at the Turner Baptist Church Hall) turning up the music for a range of dance styles that also includes English Country dance (for living out your Pride and Prejudice dreams) and Contra dances from the USA folk scene.

Perhaps Wednesday nights suit you better—you’re in luck with Irish Set Dancing classes also being held at the Turner Baptist Church Hall.

The Monaro Folk Society is also an affordable option for date night, family fun or just to check it out with most of the regular dance nights and classes coming in at under $10 entry—plus some of the events are even free.

Got two left feet but still want to be a part of the fun? The Monaro Folk Society also holds a range of nights where the music lovers of the community can get together, including a blackboard night at the Canberra Irish Club where you can have your 15 minutes in the spotlight.

Want to learn how to play a range of folk, Celtic and Australian tunes? Check out their Tuesday night music group. It’s the perfect place for both the master and the novice to connect over some sheet music (which is supplied by the group).

Got a bit of talent already running through your bones? Reach out and see which group would be your best fit.

Not a dancer or a musician? Well, don’t worry—there’s still more on offer!

If the only place currently hearing you sing is your shower, take a look at the Celtic Choir. You don’t need to be the next Mariah Carey to head along and check out the group that meets on Monday nights in Weston.

Curious but not quite ready to take the plunge and head along? Keep an eye out for the group at the Multicultural Festival and the National Folk Festival coming up soon.