Dunedin

European contredanses
European contredanses, often simply called contredanses are a style of historical dance that originated in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries.
English country dance and Scottish country dance are well known forms of contredanses.

Contredanses typically involve groups of couples arranged in lines or squares and are characterized by a series of lively and coordinated group movements. These dances played a significant role in the evolution of social dance in Europe and transformed French dance.

Balfolk
Balfolk dancing is a dynamic and inclusive genre of dance and music that draws from diverse European traditions. What sets it apart is its fusion of traditional elements with modern innovations and a willingness to adapt and evolve.

Balfolk is characterized by its accessibility, emphasizing community, social interaction, experience and improvisation.
Participants of all ages and skill levels come together to enjoy these dances.
This dance form encourages creativity and embraces change, making it a vibrant and ever-evolving experience.

All classes are $40 for a block of 5 classes, or $10 for casual attendance :)

Upcoming 2025 Events

Le Bal du Dernier Soir (Final Bal for 2025)

Our weekly classes at the North East Valley Community Centre are on until the end of November when we will gather for Le Bal du Dernier Soir.
This bal will be our final bal for 2025 and the last dance in the space that has held community activities for so many years.
The building that has been our home will be razed by Christmas.
Already the demolition has started next door and soon these walls will be gone too.
This is your last chance to join us.
Come and feel the floor beneath your feet while it is still there.

We are very lucky to have three beautiful musicians coming down from Christchurch especially for the event.
Jonathan Le Cocq, Scout White and Sophia Bidwell will shape our dance through their music. What a treat!
Numbers are limited, get on our mailing list balfolkdunedin@gmail.com

I personally do not deal very well with the sudden disappearance of things. I believe loss, like joy, is to be fully experienced.
Having time to prepare for loss is a blessing. It allows me to look at change as a turning, not as an ending.
This is, after all, what Balfolk holds.
The dance itself is about navigating changes, holding what was precious from the past while stepping forward into what is to come next.
It is about trust: in the music, in your partner, in the space that holds us, in the turn one cannot yet see but know is coming.
We must embrace the uncertainty and dance our way through it.
Balfolk is looking for a new home. Not a simple room that we rent by the hour, this can easily be found.
I am looking for a special space where classes, events and personal practice happen consistently, where we can build something meaningful.
A real space where community forms and stays. I want to remain open to options that have not been considered yet.
Community dance needs a space we can commit to and in which we build something week after week.
Over the summer, I trust the right place will come up, as things often do.

Join us for this final season at the North East Valley Community Center (270 North Road).
Dance classes are on Monday and Wednesday.
Absolute beginners are very welcome and you do not need a partner.
Learn the steps.
Share the floor.
Be part of the last chapter so we can carry it with us into whatever opens ahead.

Details

Location: North East Valley Community Centre, 270 North Road.
Time: Saturday 22nd November
Price: TBA

Upcoming 2025 Minibals

A wonderful chance for you to come experience Balfolk Dance in a group!
Everyone is welcome, and attendance is free :)

Details

Location: Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, 31 Queens Garden.
Time: 2pm Sharp on the first Sunday of each month.

• Sunday 2nd November

If you have any questions, feel free to email our team at Balfolk Dunedin!