July 4th Weekend Blast with Kingfisher + Crossover + Bob Isaacs + Luke Donforth
Everyone is headed for Melrose this 4th of July weekend to contra dance to two bands and two callers. And daily callers' workshop with master caller and dance composer Bob Isaacs.
July 4th Weekend: Kingfisher and Crossover
Four 4-hr dance sessions with callers Bob Isaacs and Luke Donforth
Kingfisher is Cecilia Vacanti and Jeff Kaufman.
Crossover is:
Alex Cumming (Accordion/Piano),
Len Bittenson (Viola/Fiddle/Recorder) and
Carol Bittenson (Fiddle).
Callers:
Bob Isaacs
Luke Donforth
Contra caller Bob Isaacs
If you’ve ever danced a Bob Isaacs contra, you know he’s a master of musical momentum—crafting choreography that feels both intuitive and exhilarating. With his rich repertoire, crisp teaching style, and uncanny instinct for flow, Bob has earned a national reputation for calling dances that are as satisfying to the brain as they are to the feet. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or an aspiring caller, Bob brings clarity, wit, and a love for the tradition that lifts every hall he enters.
This July 4th weekend at The Dancing Fish, Bob Isaacs will lead a special Caller’s Workshop Series open to all who wish to explore the art of contra calling. Sessions run Friday through Sunday (July 4–6, 2025), culminating in a workshop-led dance on Sunday morning. The full workshop series costs just $25—an incredible value for this immersive experience. For the full schedule and details, see the event flyer or contact Bob directly at
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Caller Luke Donforth
Luke Donforth brings a warm and inviting playfulness to the hall with his calling. Contra caller and choreographer, based in Burlington, VT, he calls new and traditional contras at weekly dances, festivals, barn dances, weddings, and parties. Luke has shared the joy of dancing far and wide — in over a third of the US and a fifth of Canadian provinces.
Dance Sessions:
Friday 6-10 pm
Saturday 12-4 pm
Saturday 6-10 pm
Sunday 11-3 pm
Friday, July 4th:
10 am – 1 pm: Boat Parade
2 pm Callers Workshop
6 pm – 8 pm Contra Dance (Bob Isaacs + KingFisher)
8 pm – 10 pm Contra Dance (Luke Donforth + CrossOver)
Saturday, July 5th:
10 am Callers Workshop Contra Dance (Bob Isaacs + CrossOver)
12 pm – 2 pm Contra Dance (Luke Donforth + KingFisher)
2 pm – 4 pm Contra Dance (Bob Isaacs + CrossOver)
4 pm Callers Workshop
6 pm – 8 pm Contra Dance (Luke Donforth + CrossOver)
8 pm -10 pm Contra Dance (Bob Isaacs + KingFisher)
Sunday, July 6th:
9 am – 11 am Workshop Rehearsal
11 am – 1 pm Contra Dance (Bob Isaacs + CrossOver)
1 pm – 3 pm Contra Dance (Luke Donforth + KingFisher)
Admission
Adults
1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
Youth (under 26)
1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult
Payment should be made online whenever possible, (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …) If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.
Camping
Campers are welcome, but be sure to contact DF property manager Pat Ward first before coming. Text him at (703) 509-3820 or write to
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Food
Dancers are on their own as far as fixing, and finding their own meals.
As always, we will have picnic tables, a sink, a refrigerator, a microwave, a coffee maker, two propane grills, ice, water, and cups.
If someone wants to volunteer to coordinate a potluck dinner, they should volunteer.
Make Your Online Donation Here:
https://dancingfish.dance/donate/
Also check out other Workshops in Melrose, Trips & Adventurous Activities in Melrose.
