Kentucky's Longest Running Square Dance

Name: Square Dance - 2024
Start: 2024-05-11T17:30:00-05:00
End: 2024-05-11T21:00:00-05:00
Location: Carcassonne Community Center

A Celebration of Community and Tradition

The Carcassonne Square Dance is a beloved tradition in the rural community of Carcassonne, Kentucky. Every Second Saturday beginning in March and running until November, locals and visitors alike gather at the Carcassonne Community Center to dance, socialize, and connect with their neighbors. For many, the dance is a highlight of their month, and a chance to let loose and celebrate the rich culture and history of the region.

Origins and Evolution

In Carcassonne, the dance has been a fixture of community life for as long as anyone can remember and with the school soon to be celebrating its 100th Anniversary, The Square Dance @ Carcassonne stands to be known as the States, even Possibly the World’s, Longest Running, Community Sponsored, Square Dance.

The Carcassonne Square Dance has its roots in the Appalachian region of the United States, where square dancing has been a popular pastime for generations. Traditional Square Dancing is believed to have originated in Europe in the 17th century and was brought to America by colonists. Over time, it evolved to incorporate elements of African American and Native American dance styles, as well as local traditions and customs.

The Dance Today

Today, the Carcassonne Square Dance remains a vibrant and lively tradition. The dance is led by experienced caller Will Bowling, who calls out the steps and formations, and accompanied by live music from local band, Sunrise Ridge. The dance consists of a series of moves, including promenades, allemandes, and do-si-dos, all set to the lively rhythms of the fiddle and banjo.

According to longtime participants, the dance is a celebration of community and tradition. “It’s a chance to come together with our neighbors and friends, to dance and have fun,” “It’s also a way to honor our ancestors, who passed down this tradition to us.”

Personal Anecdotes and Insights

For many participants, the Carcassonne Square Dance is more than just a fun activity. It’s a way to connect with their heritage and their community. “My grandparents used to square dance, and I remember watching them when I was a kid,” says local residents. “Now, I come to the dance every week with my family, and it’s like we’re carrying on that tradition.”

Community Organizer and Board Member, Manuel Vanderpool. “The dance is a way to keep our culture alive,” he says. “It’s also a way to bring people together. We have people of all ages and backgrounds here, and everyone is welcome.”

Despite its popularity, the dance faces some challenges. One of the biggest is attracting younger participants while adopting to new ways of bringing in revenue streams to keep the dance going. “We’re seeing fewer young people coming to the dance,” says Vanderpool. “We’re trying to figure out ways to make it more appealing to them while trying to remain true to the roots which Carcassonne was founded on.”

The Significance of the Carcassonne Square Dance

For the people of Carcassonne, the square dance is more than just a fun activity. It’s a symbol of their community and their heritage, a way to connect with their past and their neighbors. As the dance continues to evolve and adapt to changing times, it remains a vital part of the region’s cultural identity.

As Vanderpool puts it, “The dance is a living tradition. It’s not something that’s stuck in the past. It’s something that’s alive and vibrant and growing. And that’s what makes it so special.”

Dance Caller

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Will Bowling

Square Dance Caller, Will Bowling with Rose Ballard

Residing in Oneida, Kentucky, Will Bowling is a Clay County square caller in the style of the Carcassonne and Pine Mountain communities of southeastern Kentucky. Originating in New England as an evolution from social dances in England, France, and other parts of Europe, square dancing is a group-orientated folk dance that has been a part of Appalachian social fabric for centuries. Often accompanied by live old time and bluegrass music, couples arrange themselves in a square and whirl through a sequence of steps shouted by the caller. The Carcassonne Square Dance is the oldest community-organized square dance in Kentucky, and in the summer of 2005, Bowling participated in his first of many dances at the Carcassonne Community Center. Under the tutelage of Charlie Walker and Peter Rodgers, Bowling progressed from dancer to caller, learning the distinct structure and progression Carcassonne style. Now the regular caller at the Carcassonne Community Center, Bowling has called dances hosted by Appalshop, Hindman Settlement School, and other community centers and gatherings around eastern Kentucky.

“These community dances help maintain a sense of traditional heritage, provide a public gathering place, and preserve local culture,” says Bowling. As the number of callers dwindle, he “view[s] his role as caller as central to helping maintain these dance opportunities and the subsequent community benefits, they provide.” With the support of the Folk and Traditional Arts Master Artist Fellowship, Bowling intends to attend community square dances throughout Appalachia; interview callers, dancers, and organizers; and incorporate their approaches to honing his craft as a caller and advocating for traditional dance cultures.

Learn more about Will Bowling

House Band

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Sunrise Ridge

Natalie Tomlinson, Jack Adams, Whitney Cornett, Shawn Stamper

A remarkable musical group hailing from the picturesque state of Kentucky. This talented ensemble embodies the essence of bluegrass, folk, and country music, captivating audiences with their authentic sound and heartfelt performances. With a blend of traditional and contemporary influences, Sunrise Ridge has secured a special place in Kentucky’s music scene and beyond.

Drawing inspiration from Kentucky’s rolling hills and timeless stories, Sunrise Ridge weaves intricate melodies and lyrics that resonate with diverse audiences. Their songs evoke nostalgia, capturing rural life, love, and the human experience. From lively toe-tappers to heartfelt ballads, their music touches the soul and leaves a lasting impression.

Sunrise Ridge has earned numerous accolades, performing at renowned music festivals, concert halls, and intimate venues across the country. Their dedication to preserving and evolving Kentucky’s musical traditions has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

In addition to their captivating live performances, Sunrise Ridge has released acclaimed albums, showcasing their songwriting and musicianship. Their recordings capture the raw energy and emotional depth of their shows.

As ambassadors of Kentucky’s musical heritage, Sunrise Ridge blends traditional roots with contemporary sensibilities. Their passion, talent, and Kentucky charm make them a must-listen for fans of bluegrass and heartfelt music. They are poised to leave an indelible mark on the music scene. So, sit back, listen, and let Sunrise Ridge transport you to the enchanting landscapes of Kentucky and beyond.

Learn more about Sunrise Ridge

Events in May 2024

Help Keep Our HISTORICAL Square Dance Alive

Sponsor A Dance

Becoming a sponsor for the historical Carcassonne Square Dance is not only a great way to show your support for local heritage and culture but also an opportunity to promote your business. Your sponsorship will play a crucial role in the success of our events, bringing joy to the community and preserving our rich history for generations to come.

Click Here To Become a Sponsor