From a press release:
“Curious folk dancers from all over the country will converge on Dupont Circle on January 4 and 5 for Bal DC, the United States’ first festival for bal folk, French traditional dancing. The American bal folk scene has been underground for decades, so the announcement has brought musicians and dancers from as far as Texas, Washington State, and Scotland.
Bal folk festivals in Western Europe draw crowds of thousands. You might think you’re at a pop music festival except for the instruments: bands rev up dancers with bagpipes, accordions, and hurdy-gurdies, buzzing string instruments played by turning a crank. Nights feature a mix of dances, including partner dances, circles, and chains. Bal DC will be more intimate than European festivals, but will combine the same thrilling music with simple, satisfying dances. (more…)
