This page is out of date, but some information is current. If in doubt, contact us.
International Folk Dancing
Featuring: Line, circle, and couple dances. There is usually some teaching during the evening. Beginners are welcome! It is not necessary to come with a partner. No formal attire or costume is needed; just wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
When: Every Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m.
Program: Easier dances are done during the first hour. An intermediate dance is usually taught later on. At 8:30 there is a brief period of announcements of IFDA and related events of interest, after which dancing resumes.
Where: The Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood, Missouri, 63143
Admission: $5.00 normally; may be more for special events with hired bands. Children are free but must be supervised at all times.
Scandinavian and International Couple Dancing
Featuring: Scandinavian Bygdedans (village dancing), or general international couple dances. Dances are occasionally taught or reviewed. It is not necessary to bring a partner.
When and Where: Usually on certain Sundays at varying times and locations
Shoes: Clean shoes are mandatory to minimize wear on the floor. We recommend wearing hard-soled shoes (leather or synthetic), as many couple dances require turning which is more difficult with rubber-soled shoes.
Admission: None (but snacks are appreciated).
Want More Information? See Rex Couture's article, "A New Spin on International Couple Dancing", published in FolkFire newsletter.
Special Activities
Workshops: The IFDA sponsors at least two weekend workshops each year, usually one in the winter or spring and the other in the fall, featuring guest teachers from around the country and around the world. We try to have one workshop emphasizing line or circle dancing and one emphasizing couple dancing. Other special workshops may be held as opportunities arise. Some workshops include singing or instrumental techniques as well as dancing. Meals featuring cuisine appropriate to the workshop are usually prepared. See Schedule of Coming Events for coming workshops, and our Past IFDA Workshops & Concerts Past IFDA Workshops and events page for what we have had in recent years.
Concerts and Dance Parties: The IFDA has been fortunate to be able to sponsor concerts and dance parties featuring ethnic and other international folk bands. Again see our Schedule of Coming Events page, and our Past IFDA Workshops & Events page for concerts and dance parties that we have had in recent years.
Live Music: Dance music is normally from recordings, but on some occasions dancers are able to enjoy the spontaneity of live music. Live bands or other performing guests are sometimes featured at workshops, parties, or other special occasions. The St. Louis Spelmannslag, an informal Scandinavian fiddle group, often plays at Scandinavian couple dancing and sometimes at Saturday night dancing. Time can also usually be arranged on a request basis at Saturday night dancing for other IFDA members wishing to play dance music.
Performances and Participatory Events: The IFDA is a recreational dance group that enjoys doing dances from Europe and the Middle East. We are proud to share our enjoyment of these rich dance traditions, and would be happy to teach dances ranging from simple walking patterns to more energetic dances. We can also add a lively dance party to give an international flavor to your social event. Costumed performances can be arranged, accompanied by commentary on the corresponding traditions. We can provide any combination of these formats. Fees are negotiable. See our Contact Us page for contact Information.
Announcements for ALL Special Events are in our e-newsletter and on our Facebook page.
Feature articles on our special events can often be found in FolkFire newsletter.