Dancing at the Dickinson

Overview

If you’ve ever wanted to experience your own Mr. Darcy or Miss Bennett moment, or have simply wondered how all those dances you’ve seen in “Jane Austen” films work, or just want to have a fun evening, then you are definitely going to want to join the English country dance classes at John Dickinson Plantation.

Michelle Sebastian Aldrich will be teaching you English country dance (ECD) formations and figures, as well as some social history and the historical importance of ECD. Michelle has taught ECD since 2010, beginning at Dumbarton House in Washington DC, and is the Founder and Director of Sebastian ECD (formerly ECD in DC), an English country dance performance group that has performed at various venues, such as The Folger Theatre in Washington DC.

ECD requires no prior experience – there is no fancy footwork needed, and the figures are simple and easy to learn. Every dance is taught and prompted by Michelle throughout the dance. Come get your steps in!

If you’ve ever wanted to try dancing, this is a great opportunity! Classes are FREE!

Participants must be 18 or older or 13 and older if accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Call to pre-register at 302-739-3277.

Important notes:

• It is not necessary to come to class with a partner. ECD is “social”: partners can change throughout the class and are encouraged to do so. This way everyone dances with everyone else, and all contribute to the fun.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothes. Whilst the steps are simple, you will be moving!

• Wear flat shoes that won’t skid or stick on a wood or cork floor. The most important thing is that everyone can dance safely!