Seattle-based Tapsalteerie musical group will host a contra dance night at the Odd Fellows Hall on Saturday, June 4.

“Contra dancing is similar to square dancing in that all dances are called, so you don’t need to know the dance ahead of time,” says Jan Martindale, the group’s fiddler. “The dances are done in long lines, the length of the hall, so you get to dance with everyone in your line by the end of each dance. They’re fun, relaxed and all you need is a comfortable pair of shoes and a smile!”

Tapsalteerie has been playing for contra dances in the Northwest for 12 years, presenting an eclectic mix of old favorites and newer innovations for their own and the dancers’ amusement. The group is composed of Clare Woolgrove on concertina; Jon Singleton on fiddle; Nick Leininger on guitar; Sam Good on bass; and Martindale on fiddle; .

“We’ve been wanting to do a dance on Orcas for a long time, as my husband and I have a home there where our band likes to go for weekend practice retreats,” said Martindale.

The dances will be called by Carol Piening, a lively and enthusiastic caller who has been delighting West Coast dancers for years. She lives in Olympia.

The dance will run from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Cost is $5 at the door; kids under 16 are free. All dances will be taught, and no partner is necessary.

For more information, call Linda Ellsworth at 376-2154, or email sandboa51@msn.com.