Austin International Folk Dancers

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_30_flex.html

This week at AIFD: Madeline Brock DJ’s. she will be assisted by Julia Foree . LIVE MUSIC. This week we’ll be treated to the lively and danceable tunes of La Strada. NEW, DO, REVIEW. This week during NDR we will review dances that we will dance in the evening during our live music from La Strada. Come at 7 to get ready for our fun evening! If you have any dances you would like to see taught, please contact our teaching director Rebecca Hample know, or write it in the “Please Teach” book on the DJ desk. Oct 23: Robert DJs, Mark assists This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_23_flex.html This week at AIFD: Robert Sampson DJ’s, Mark Edwards assists. NEW, DO, REVIEW. Come at 7 to enjoy some teaching by Lisa Horn Dielman: NEW: Fistan (Turkish); DO: Dos Besitos; REVIEW: Esmer. From our teaching director: Each week we will: Teach one new dance Do one walkthrough of dance that is from our core rep, with some reminders and tips Review one dance that was taught recently, not necessarily from the week before If you have any dances you would like us to include in this, please let Rebecca know, or write it in the “Please Teach” book on the DJ desk. Join the fun at 7! Oct 16: Anthony DJs, Scott assists, 3 teachers teach. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_16_flex.html This week at AIFD: Anthony Toprac DJ’s, Scott Margo assists. NEW, DO, REVIEW. Join us this week for a trio of dances taught by our trio of teachers – Holly Plotner, Kathleen McDonagh, and Don Weeda! From our teaching director: Each week we will: Teach one new dance Do one walkthrough of dance that is from our core rep, with some reminders and tips Review one dance that was taught recently, not necessarily from the week before If you have any dances you would like us to include in this, please let Rebecca know, or write it in the “Please Teach” book on the DJ desk. Join the fun at 7! Oct 2: Lisa DJs, Jeff assists, Texas Camp Band This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_2_flex.html This week at AIFD: Lisa Horn Dielman will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. LIVE MUSIC!!! This week we’ll be treated to the lively and danceable tunes of the Texas Camp Band. Every year the band performs at AIFD the week before Texas Camp as a warm up for provding live music at Camp. And it is a real treat. NEW, DO, REVIEW. Each week we will: Teach one new dance Do one walkthrough of dance that is from our core rep, with some reminders and tips Review one dance that was taught recently, not necessarily from the week before If you have any dances you would like us to include in this, please let Rebecca know, or write it in the “Please Teach” book on the DJ desk. Join the fun at 7! Sep 28: Madeline DJs, Adriana assists. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_28_flex.html This week at AIFD: Madeline Brock will be our DJ this week. She will run an “ALL REQUEST” program so bring a list of your favorite dances. Madeline will be assisted by Adriana Kelly. NEW, DO, REVIEW. Misi Tsurikov and Rebecca Hample will teach the Welsh dance Robin Ddoig. Sep 4: Misi DJs, Kym assists. Misi & Don teach. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_4_flex.html This week at AIFD: Misi Tsurikov will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. NEW, DO, REVIEW. Come at 7 to enjoy some great teaching and reviews. In addition to being our DJ, Misi will review Tsamiko, Niska Banja, and Cine Are Noroc Are – dances he taught last week. Don Weeda will review Tamzara, which he and Sonique taught last week. Aug 28: Madeline DJs, Donna assists, live music!!! This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_28_2026_flex.html This week at AIFD: Madeline Brock will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Donna Baker. NEW, DO, REVIEW, LIVE MUSIC & SNACKS Come at 7 to enjoy some great teaching and reviews. We’ll have LIVE MUSIC provided by 1001 Nights Orchestra… ..and we’ll celebrate August Birthdays and Anniversaries with SNACKS provided by Judit Ries. Aug 21: Holly DJs, Emily assists, Kathleen teaches. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_21_2026_flex.html This week at AIFD: Holly Plotner will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Emily Hirsh. NEW, DO, REVIEW “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.“ – Dr. Seuss. Join Kathleen McDonagh this week as she reviews Tokyo Polka, Jaimalé, and Jerusalema – four-wall dances that change orientation with every repeat of the dance or a figure. Aug 7: Lisa DJs, Adriana assists, Holly teaches. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_7_2026_flex.html This week at AIFD: Lisa Horn Dielman will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Adriana Kelly. NEW, DO, REVIEWHolly Plotner will review some dances from the recent San Antonio Folk Dance Festival. July 31: Anthony DJs, Donna assists. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_31_2026_flex.html This week at AIFD: Anthony Toprac will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Donnna Baker. NEW, DO, REVIEWCome at 7 for some great reviews teaching. July 10: Franklin DJs, Adriana assists. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_10_2026_flex.html We’re back and Hancock.Franklin Houston will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Adriana Kelly. Franklin will feature a number of dances that were popular in the early years of AIFD. NEW, DO, REVIEWFranklin will begin the evening by leading the group through a set of perennial favorites that are both easy and fun to do. They will be taught again over the subsequent two weeks to help dancers increase their core repertoire and even learn to lead the dances! Friay, July 3 – No Dancing. Happy Independence Day. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_3_2026_flex.html HRC Closed this week. HRC will be closed this week due to the July 4th weekend. See you next week. June 26: Holly DJs, Lisa assists. Slavadillo!!! This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_26_2026_flex.html This Friday, June 26, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Holly Plotner will be our DJ this week. Holly will be assisted by Lisa Horn Dielman. Live Music by SLAVADILLO!!!! This week we’ll be treated to the danceable and delightful Live Music of SLAVADILLO!!! New, Do, Review Come at 7 for some great teaching; Rebecca Hample will teach Istanbul, by request. Then Robert Sampson will teach To ting as well as Cotton Eyed Joe, a traditional line dance from the 1800s. Ercüment Kılıç We were fortunate to have Ercüment Kılıç, the legendary teacher of Turkish folk dances, at AIFD on June 5, 2026. He taught us three dances and gifted us a lovely collection of MP3 music. Find all these materials at this link. Link of the week: July 4th Flash Mob. Do you have a suggestion for the link of the week? To be added to or removed from our e-newsletter distribution list or for more information, please click here. June 12: Dee DJs, Kym assists, Kym teaches. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_12_2026_flex.html This Friday, June 12, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Dee McCandless will be our DJ this week. Dee will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review This week Misi Tsurikov will review the Turkish dances Ercüment Kılıç presented last week. Jun 5: Turkish dancing This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_5_2026_flex.html This Friday, June 5, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Madeline Brock will be our DJ this week and will play an ALL REQUEST PROGRAM. So bring your favorite requests. Madeline will be assisted by Emily Doubt. New, Do, Review Arrive at 7 to learn some Turkish Dancing by Ecüment Kılıç “A highly regarded master teacher who specializes in Azerbaijani-Turkish line and couple dances, as well as folk dances from central Anatolia and the Black Sea regions. He frequently tours North American folk dance camps and workshops to teach traditional choreography and costume history. see more. May 29 – Holly DJs, Scott assists. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_29_2026_flex.html This Friday, May 29, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Holly Plotner will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Scott Margo. New, Do, ReviewCome at 7 for some great teaching and reviews LIVE MUSIC!! This week we’ll be treated to the live and very danceable tues of Amanda Kitchens and the Carneval of Sounds. SNACKS!! In addition to assisting, Scott Margo, along with Daisy Lai, will provide snacks. May 22 – Franklin DJs, Jeff assists. Election results, This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_22_2026_flex.html This Friday, May 22, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Franklin Houston will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. From Franklin: In recognition of John Filcich, a pioneering folk dance leader who was active up until his passing last week just before his 102nd birthday, Franklin Houston will feature a number of dances from the 1950’s and 60’s, all of which were popular at AIFD in 1979 when a special “AUSTIN FOLK DANCING IN PREHISTORIC TIMES” party was held and all of which are still done or known today. New, Do, ReviewCome at 7 for some great teaching and reviews AIFD Board of Directors Election Results Thanks to the outgoing Board of Directors, Congratulations to the new board. Outgoing Role Incoming Madeline Brock President Anthony Toprac Anthony Toprac Vice-President Julia Foree Marcia Toprac Treasurer Marcia Toprac Donna_Baker Program Director Donna_Baker Rebecca Hample Teaching Director Rebecca Hample John Scales & Eugene Bloom Secretary Misi Tsurikov May 1: Mike DJs, Kathleen assists. Farewell Scales. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_1_2026_flex.html This Friday, May 1, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Mike Revesz will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh New, Do, Review Come enjoy some great teaching. Apr 24: Lisa DJs, Kym assists. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_24_2026_flex.html This Friday, April 24, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Lisa Horn Dielman will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge THIS WEEK: LIVE MUSIC: 1001 Nights Orchestra!!! This week we’ll be treated the lively tunes of 1001 NIGHTS ORCHESTRA!! Apr 3: April Fools – wear OUTRAGEOUS hats!!! This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_3_2026_flex.html This Friday, April 3, 7-9:45, at AIFD:Dee McCandless will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Julia Foree. In honor of April Fools, Dee encourages everyone to sport outfits that are goofy and silly. She especially encourages outrageous hats!! New, Do, Review This week Misi Tsurikov will teach Karcmarocka(Rusyn) and Cine Are Noroc Are (Romanian), from SAFDF 2026. March 27: Lisa DJs, Mark assists, great teaching!!! This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_27_2026_flex.html This Friday, March 27, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Lisa Horn Dielman will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Mark Edwards. New, Do, Review This week join Holly Plotner for a “dance through”, with voice over cues, of easy to follow, mostly slow, mostly 1 figure, beautiful or cool music dances. Some will be new dances, some that we’ve learned at TX Camp or SAFDF, and some old (or even new) repertoire that has fallen off the radar. Good for beginners, but with enough interest for experienced dancers, it will be a break for our brains while enjoying the music and the movement. SNACKS!!! Paul Williams will provide snacks. March 20: See you at SAFDF No dancing at HRC this week. Hope to see you in Filed under: Uncategorized | No Comments » --> March 6 – Franklin DJs, Donna assists, Misi teaches. This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_6_2026_flex.html This Friday, March 6, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Franklin Houston will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, Review Misi Tsurkov will review some of the Hungarian dances presented last week as part of the performance by Csárdás Feb 27 – Csardas!!! This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_27_2026_flex.html This Friday, February 27, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Anthony Toprac will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Scott Margo. New, Do, Review Please join Misi Tsurkov, Franklin Houston and other members of Csárdás as they present several easy Hungarian dances that will fit nicely with the evening’s peformance by Csárdás. SNACKS!!: Julia Foree will provide snacks this week. Feb 20: Madeline DJs, This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_20_2026_flex.html This Friday, February 20, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Madeline Brock will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Julia Foree. Madeline will run an all request** program. **Looking for ideas of dances to request, check this somewhat old, but informative spreadsheet of dances played at AIFD. New, Do, Review Dee McCandless will review Tino Mori, Pajdushko, and Lesnoto. Dee DJs, Kym assists, Homegrown plays This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_13_2026_flex.html This Friday, February 13, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Dee McCandless will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review This week at NDR: In addition to being our DJ this week, Dee will also review Gras Kalo and then teach Tino Mori. HOMEGROWN!!! This week we’ll be treated to the lively tunes of HOMEGROWN!!! Jan 23 – Scottish Dancing This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_23_2026_flex.html This Friday, January 23, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Holly Plotner will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Cat Thompson.

New, Do, Review This week Dee McCandless will review Gras Kalo Kolo and teach Tino Mori. Also, Jay Spoehel, will introduce some Scottish Dancing!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_2_2026_flex.html

This Friday, January 2, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Misi Tsurikov will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Julia Foree. New, Do, Review Join us as we go over some of the dances the Camp Band will be playing live, including Divcibarsko with Holly Plotner and Teen with Misi. New Year Party!! Join us as we celebrate the new year with live music by the Texas Camp Band. Snacks will be provided by Anthony and Marcia Toprac

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_19_2025_flex.html

This Friday, December 19, 7-9:45, at AIFD: John (“Janos”) will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review Holly Plotner will teach some great dances this week. Live Music This week we’ll be treat/ed to the lively and danceable tunes of Amanda Kitchens and the Carnival of Sounds

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_12_2025_flex.html

This Friday, December 12, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Franklin Houston will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. New, Do, Review Franklin Houston will again present a great hour of Bulgarian dances. This week, he’ll review Thracian Râčenica (taught by Michael Ginsburg at Texas Camp 2025), then review Yves Moreau’s Floricica and Batuta with some additional variations

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_28_2025_flex.html

This Friday, November 28, 7-9:45, at AIFD: No dancing at HRC this week. Enjoy your holiday weekend. See you next week.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_21_2025_flex.html

This Friday, November 21, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Holly Plotner will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by McCandless. New, Do, Review This week, in addition to being our DJ, Holly will review last week’s dances: Sofka, a Greek dance taught at TX Camp, and Zoriuszka, a Carpathian circle dance to haunting music. There may even be a surprise teaching! SNACKS!!This week we’ll be treated to snacks coordinated by Kym Oltrogge.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_14_2025_flex.html

This Friday, November 14, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Kathleen Yoder will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. New, Do, ReviewKathleen McDonagh will review Vasilchovo Horo, from Texas Camp 2025, which she taught last week. And Holly Plotner will teach Sofka, from TX Camp 2025, and Zoriuszka, a Rusyn circle dance to haunting music. Live Music!! This week we will be treated to live music SLAVADILLO!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_7_2025_flex.html

This Friday, November 7, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Franklin Houston will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, ReviewMisi Tsurikov will review Cocek Za Merak, Dolgoto Oro, and Halay. Misi will also teach Teton Mountain Stomp, a mixer that Steve and Donna will play. Live Music!!This week we will be treated to live music by the talented music duo Donna and Steve Bing. They will be playing Cajun, Texan, and swing tunes, as well as waltzes and mixers. They will also perform the next day at the 3rd Saturday Contra.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_31_2025_flex.html

This Friday, October 31, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Madeline Brock will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Pat Potts. New, Do, Review Kathleen McDonagh will teach Vasilchovo Horo and walk through some dances being performed by La Strada. Halloween with La Strada This week we’ll celebrate Halloween with live music by La Strada!!! Snacks will be coordinated by Daisy Lai and Scott Margo.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_17_2025_flex.html

This Friday, October 24, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Lisa Horn Dielman will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review (NDR)Join Misi Tsurikov this Friday as he teaches Cocek Za Merak, Dolgoto Oro, and Halay — all dances from Texas Camp 2025.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_17_2025_flex.html

This Friday, October 17, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Anthony Toprac will be our DJ this week. Anthony will be assisted by Mark Edwards. New, Do, Review (NDR)Join Misi Tsurikov this Friday as he presents Cocek Za Merak, Dolgoto Oro, Halay.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_10_2025_flex.html

This Friday, October 10, 7-9:45, at AIFD: John (Janos) Scales will be our DJ this week. John will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. New, Do, Review (NDR)Join Kathleen McDonagh this Friday as we revisit a trio of dances taught at this year’s Texas Camp: Thracian Greek dance Milísso; bride’s dance Nevestinsko (aka “Prsten Mi Padna”); and the energetic Bulgarian line dance Kotlensko.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_3_2025_flex.html

This Friday, October 3, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Holly Plotner will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. New, Do, Review (NDR)Come enjoy some fun teaching and reviews.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_26_2025_flex.html

This Friday, September 26 AIFD will not meet at Hancock Rec Center this week. We hope to see you at Texas Camp!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_19_2025_flex.html

This Friday, September 19, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Anthony Toprac will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Scott Margo New, Do, Review (NDR)This week Holly Plotner Holly will review two of the dances she taught last week; Divčibarsko Kolo and Stiga Mi Sa Momne Le. Franklin Houston will review 3 dances he taught last June – Slow Vranjanka, Krsteno (Katuše Mome, Što Mi E Milo), Drhtavac/Pagaruša. September Birthdays & AnniverariesThis week we’ll celebrate September Birthdays and Anniversies. Come enjoy the snacks that will be provided by Sue Hovorka.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_12_2025_flex.html

This Friday, September 12, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Lisa Horn Dielman will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Donna Baker New, Do, Review (NDR)Come enjoy some great teaching and reviews. Live Music!!!This week we’ll be treated to the lively and danceable tunes of Texas Camp Band!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_5_2025_flex.html

This Friday, September 5, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Holly Plotner will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. This week’s program will feature recently taught dances including those from recent TX Camps. New, Do, Review (NDR)This week in NDR Holly will review dances played last week by 1001 Nights; Tamzara, Medax Tashginag, and Laz Bar.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_29_2025_flex.html

This Friday, August 29, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Mike Revesz will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Cat Thompson. New, Do, Review (NDR)This week in NDR Sonique, one of the members of 1001 Nights, will teach some of the dances that the band will play later in the evening. Some of the dances are new to our group. Live Music and Birthdays & Anniveraries This week we’ll be treated to the lively and danceable tunes of 1001 Nights Orchestra. Also this week we will celebrate August Birthdays and Anniversies. Come enjoy the snacks that will be provided by Kathleen McDonagh, Scott Margo, and Daisy Lai.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_22_2025_flex.html

This Friday, August 22, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Kathleen Yoder will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review (NDR) This week in NDR Kathleen McDonagh will review Čestata, Misi Tsurikov and Rebecca Hample will review some of the couple dances we did on August 8, and if time permits, we will look at some of the dances that 1001 Nights will play live on 8/29 (next week).

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_15_2025_flex.html

This Friday, August 15, 7-9:45, at AIFD: John (“Janos”) Scales will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Scott Margo. New, Do, Review (NDR)All aboard! Grab your passports and join us this week as teacher Kathleen McDonagh leads us on a trip through Bulgaria! Our journey begins in the Rhodopes region with a patterned pravo –Pravo Čepelarsko Horo. From there we travel west to Pirin where we’ll dance Dramskoto, a Šetnja-like dance. Then it’s off to Ruse in Northeastern Bulgaria for Čestata, a pajduško variant danced to mouth harp music. See you at the terminal this Friday, and don’t forget to pack your dance shoes!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_1_2025_flex.html

This Friday, August 1, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Madeline Brock will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Pat Potts. New, Do, Review (NDR)Come at 7 to enjoy some fun teaching.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_25_2025_flex.html

This Friday, July 25, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Kathleen Yoder will be our DJ this week. Kaathleen will be assisted by Kym_Oltrogge. New, Do, Review (NDR)This week in NDR, Franklin Houston will review Floricica (Yves Moreau’s Bulgarian Vlach dance) Pajduško (Paydushko) from Bulgaria, and Katuše Mome (the Krsteno dance in 9/8) from Macedonia which he taught last week. Misi Tsurikov will review Potkorak, the Croatian dance that John Rodi taught us at SAFDF 2025 and that he brought to AIFD two weeks ago, and teach Karcmarocka, the Polish-Rusyn dance that Andy Taylor-Blenis taught us at SAFDF 2025.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_18_2025_flex.html

This Friday, July 18, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Lisa Horn Dielman will be our DJ this week. Lisa will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. New, Do, Review (NDR)Franklin Houston will teach Floricica, which the Balkan Singers will perform live. Live Music!!!Come enjoy the lively and very danceable tunes of the Austin Balkan Singers, accompanied on the accordion by Austin’s own Don Weeda (with a short electric set in between the two ABS sets).

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_11_2025_flex.html

This Friday, July 11, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Holly Plotner will be our DJ this week. Holly will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, ReviewIn addition to DJ-ing this week, Holly will review the dances that she taught two weeks ago: Ooska Gookas, Pandalaš, and Chikulata Chikita. Also Misi Tsurikov will teach Potkorak, a Croatian dance that John Rodi taught at SAFDF 2025.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_4_2025_flex.html

No dancing this week – Friday – July 4th: Have a wonderful 4th, how ever you spend it. See you at dancing next week.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/Jun_20_2025_flex.html

This Friday, June 20, 7-9:45, at AIFD: John (Janos) Scales will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, Review This week at NDR Franklin Houston will review the dances he taught last week – Tanuló szerba, Slow Vranjanka, Fast Vranjanka, Drhtavac/Pagaruša; and teach the Macedonian ‘Krsteno’ dance in 9/8 rhythm: Katuše Mome/Što Mi Je Milo..

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/Jun_13_2025_flex.html

This Friday, June 13, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Madeline Brock will be our DJ this week. Madeline will be assisted by Mark Edwards. Madeline will run an all request program. So bring your list of favorite dances. New, Do, Review This week for NDR Rebecca Hample will review Tourdion which Holly taught last week. Then Franklin Houston will teach some of the dances he presented at SAFDF 2025. He’ll be selecting from this list: Tanuló szerba, Slow Vranjanka, Fast Vranjanka, Katuše Mome/Što Mi Je Milo, Čuješ Mala, and Drhtavac/Pagaruša.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/Jun_6_2025_flex.html

This Friday, June 6, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Anthony Toprac will be our DJ this week. Anthony will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. New, Do, Review Come enjoy some great teaching this week between 7 to 8.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_30_2025_flex.html

This Friday, May 30, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be Mike Revesz. Mike will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. New, Do, Review This week at NDR we will review some of dances we have taught in the past few weeks. Then Franklin Houston will teach the Thracian râčenica, which Homegrown will play that evening. Homegrown!!!Then at 7:45 enjoy (and dance to) the live music of Homegrown!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_23_2025_flex.html

This Friday AIFD will not meet as HRC will be closed for maintenance. Instead we suggest the Austin Greek Festival: – Livin’ the greek life; – Memorial Day Weekend, May 23-25, 2025; – 414 St Stephens School Rd, Austin, TX 78746; – $5 admission; – Cashless .. credit cards only.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_16_2025_flex.html

This Friday, May 16, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week we celebrate our volunteers with a Volunteer Appreciation Night. Volunteers make our Friday night gatherings successful: DJs, assistants, teachers, board members, and many more. For this special night they have submitted their favorite dances which will make up the program. Donna Baker and Rebecca Hample will lead the program. Pat Potts will assist. New, Do, ReviewCome enjoy some great teaching between 7-8. Election Results!!!Congratulations to the new 2025-6 AIFD Board!!! President: Madeline Brock Vice President: Anthony Toprac Teaching Director: Rebecca Hample Program Director: Donna Baker Treasurer: Marcia Toprac Secretary: Eugene Blum Thanks to the outgoing board!! President: Madeline Brock Vice President: Jeff Kessel Teaching Director: Rebecca Hample Program Director: Donna Baker Treasurer: Marcia Toprac Secretary: John (Janos) Scales

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_9_2025_flex.html

This Friday, May 9, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be Anne Alexander. Anne will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. Elections!!! This week come cast your vote for the AIFD Board of Directors for 2025-6. Click here for details about position, who can vote, and other good stuff

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_2_2025_flex.html

This Friday, May 2, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be Holly Plotner. Holly will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, ReviewThis week at NDR we will review Zek Zek Dadumle and learn a Maypole Dance. Morris DancersAnd we will be treated to a Morris Dance performance!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_25_2025_flex.html

This Friday, April 25, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be Anthony Toprac. Anthony will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, Review Hungarian Dances from SárközThis week at NDR enjoy another special teaching treat as Csardas introduces Hungarian Dances from Sárköz. Sárköz is part of south Hungary next to Danube River. Live Music!!!This week enjoy the lively and danceable tunes of Amanda Kitchens and members of Carnival of Sound. April Birthdays!!! This week we will celebrate April Birthdays.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_18_2025_flex.html

This Friday, April 18, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be Kathleen Yoder. Kathleen will be assisted by Mark Edwards. New, Do, Review Hungarian Dances from MoldvaThis week at NDR enjoy a special teaching treat as Csardas introduces Hungarian Dances from Moldva. Moldva is part of old Romania (not Transylvania). It is home to a group of Hungarian villages and a special old style circle dances. Next Week: Amanda Kitchens Carnival of Sounds. April Birthdays!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_11_2025_flex.html

This Friday, April 11, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be Dee McCandless. Dee will be assisted by Madeline Brock. New, Do, ReviewThis week Rebecca Hample and Misi Tsurikov will review Gypsy Wine and dances taught at last week’s SAFDF.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_4_2025_flex.html

This Friday, april 4, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be John (Janos) Scales. John will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. New, Do, ReviewOur teaching director, Rebecca Hample, will teach one or more of the dances introduced at last week’s SAFDF. Live Music:This week we’ll be treated to the live music of Slavadillo.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_28_2025_flex.html

A History of AIFD: Ever wonder about the origins of folk dancing in Austin? Check out this hand written history from the 1960s. Thanks to Dena and Franklin Houston for preserving this. We’ll return to HRC next week!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_21_2025_flex.html

This Friday, March 21, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be Mike Revesz. Mike will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review This week at NDR: Kathleen McDonagh will review Osmica and Opinca. Misi Tsurikov and Rebecca Hample will teach the much requested Gypsy Wine. March BirthdaysThis week come celebrate March Anniversaries and Birthdays. Treats will be provided. No dancing at HRC Next week.AIFD will not meet at HRC next week. Instead we hope to see you at SAFDF in San Antonio!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_14_2025_flex.html

This Friday, March 14, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be John (Janos) Scales. John will be assisted by Cat Thompson. New, Do, ReviewThis week we will teach dances that have been requested. Come learn some crowd favorites!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_7_2025_flex.html

This Friday, March 7, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Central Texas Learning Festival FREE!!!CTX Learning Festival is on for 2025! Start planning how you’ll learn across Central Texas through the event page. AIFD is participating in the Central TX Learning Festival on March 7 and our usual hours, at Hancock. Free evening for everyone, with lots of beginner teaching. This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Misi Tsurikov. Misi will be assisted by Mark Edwards.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_28_2025_flex.html

This Friday, February 28, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Anthony Toprac. Anthony will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, ReviewThis week as NDR, Kathleen McDonagh will review Megdansko Horo and Holly Plotner will review Čoček Za Merak, a Roma dance brought to us by Jaap Leegwater. February BirthdaysThis week come celebrate February Anniversaries and Birthdays. Treats will be provied.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_14_2025_flex.html

This Friday, February 14, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Holly Plotner. Holly will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. New, Do, ReviewThis week for NDR, Anne Alexander and Franklin Houston will review Sweatheart Waltz. Also, in addition to DJ-ing and assisting, Holly and Kathleen will teach something great.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_7_2025_flex.html

This Friday, February 7, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. New, Do, ReviewThis week for NDR, Franklin Houston and Anne Alexander will review The Foxtrot and the Texas Two Step. They will then teach the Sweetheart Waltz. Live Music!!This week we’ll be treated to the lively tunes of Amanda Kitchens Trio.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_31_2025_flex.html

This Friday, January 31, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Mike Revesz.. Mike will be assisted by Cat Thompson. New, Do, ReviewThis week for NDR, Lisa Horn Dielman and Franklin Houston will review Batuta and then teach Foxtrot and Sweetheart Waltz. January BirthdaysThis week come celebrate January Anniversaries and Birthdays. Cake will be served.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_24_2025_flex.html

This Friday, January 24, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Kathleen Yoder. Kathleen will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review This week in NDR Kathleen McDonagh will review Paharelul and Anne Alexander will review Žensko Makedonsko Oro, both from 2024 Texas Camp. Franklin Houston and Lisa Horn Dielman will teach Batuta, Foxtrot, and Texas Two-Step. Austin Balkan Singers:This week we’ll be treated to the enchanting tunes of the Austin Balkan Singers, accompanied by Don Weeda.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_17_2025_flex.html

This Friday, January 17, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Franklin Houston. Franklin will be assisted by Mark Edwards. New, Do, ReviewThis week in NDR Kathleen McDonagh will review Shivers and teach Paharulul – from 2024 Texas Camp. Anne Alexander will teach Žensko Makedonsko Oro and review Toičevo Kolo, both from 2024 Texas Camp.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_10_2025_flex.html

This Friday, January 10, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be John (Janos) Scales. Janos will be assisted by Pat Potts. New, Do, Review This week in NDR Holly Plotner will review Kasapsko Oro and Kritikós Syrtós that she taught last week. And Anne Alexander will teach Toičevo Kolo.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_3_2025_flex.html

This Friday, January 3, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Dee McCandless. Dee will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, ReviewThis week in NDR Holly Plotner will teach Kritikós Syrtós, Kasapsko Oro and Shadow Waltz Mixer – all which were from Texas Camp.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_27_2024_flex.html

This Friday, December 27, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Kathleen Yoder. Kathleen will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, ReviewThis week in NDR Franklin Houston will present two popular Hungarian classics from Andor Czompo and two Moldvai Csango dances new to many of us. Party!!!This week come celebrate December Birthdays and an AIFD Holiday Party, including a performace by Csárdás!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_20_2024_flex.html

This Friday, December 20, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. Lisa is feeling the holiday spirit and invites you to join in with some fun holiday tunes and Christmas head-wear! New, Do, ReviewThis week in NDR Kathleen McDonagh will review Divčibarska Kolo, which Misi taught last week. She will also teach two dances from camp: Haire Mamougeh taught by Joan Bennett, and Shivers taught by Nick and Melissa Enge.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_13_2024_flex.html

This Friday, December 13, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. New, Do, ReviewThis week in NDR Misi Tsurikov will teach two dances from camp, Divčibarsko Kolo from Serbia, that was taught by Joan Bennett; and Marbridge Mixer, which is a new dance choreographed right here in Austin and taught to us by Nick and Melissa Enge. Also, Rebecca Hample will review the two dances she taught last week: Kouresh from Kyrgyzstan, and Le’or Chi Yu Chech from Israel. Homegrown!!! This week we’ll be treated to the live music of Homegrown!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_6_2024_flex.html

This Friday, December 6, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Holly Plotner. Holly will be assisted by John “Janos” Scales. Holly writes “Texas Camp Retrospective! Friday’s program will focus on the dances taught at this year’s TX Camp. Let’s practice what we learned and show everyone who didn’t attend how much fun we had.” New, Do, Review>This week we’ll be treated to a dance taught at last week’s Texas Camp!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_29_2024_flex.html

No dancing at HRC.In support of Texas Camp, AIFD will not meet at HRC. We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving however you spend it.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_22_2024_flex.html

This Friday,November 22, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Dee MCandless. New, Do, ReviewThis week Misi Tsurikov and Madeline Brock will teach Cross Step Waltz, part 2. Open to everyone, even if you missed part 1. November BirthdaysThis week we’ll celebrate those with birthdays in November!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_15_2024_flex.html

This Friday, November 15, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Anthony Toprac. Anthony will be assisted by Cat Thompson. New, Do, Review This week in NDR: Holly Plotner will review Valle Pogoniste, taught last week. Then Dee McCandless will review Hestekaren, also taught last week. Rebecca Hample will then treat us to some additional great teaching.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_8_2024_flex.html

This Friday, November 8, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Kathleen Yoder. Kathleen will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, ReviewRebecca Hample will review Tokyo Polka from last week and review/reteach Hestekaren, which we will do later in the evening with the camp band. Texas Camp BandThis week we’ll be treated to the lively and danceable tunes of the Texas Camp Band!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_1_2024_flex.html

This Friday, November 1, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Donna Baker. This week: Day of the Dead Party!!! Live Music with La Strada!!!! Come enjoy the lively and very danceable tunes of La Strada.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_25_2024_flex.html

This Friday, October 25, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Franklin Houston. Franklin will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. New, Do, ReviewCross Step Waltz – week 2!!!. This week Misi Tsurikov and Madeline Brock will continue teaching this fun and dynamic dance. No partners needed. October BirthdaysThis week we’ll celebrate those with birthdays in October!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_18_2024_flex.html

This Friday, October 18, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Holly Plotner. Holly will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. New, Do, Review Cross Step Waltz!!! This week and next week Misi Tsurikov and Madeline Brock will introduce this fun and dynamic dance. No partners needed.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_11_2024_flex.html

This Friday, October 11, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be John (Janos) Scales. Janos will be assisted by Donna Baker. Slavadillo!!!This week we’ll be treated to the lively and danceable tunes of Slavadillo. New, Do, ReviewHolly Plotner will review the dances she taught last week: High Green Mountain, Highlife, and Branle de la Fosse Aux Loups.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_4_2024_flex.html

This Friday, October 4, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Our DJ this week will be Kathleen Yoder. Kathleen will be assisted by Misi Tsurikov. New, Do, Review Holly Plotner will teach this week.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_27_2024_flex.html

This Friday, September 27, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Live Music!!! This week we’ll be treated to live music provided by Amanda Kitchens and the Carnival of Sounds!!! Our DJ this week will be Dee McCandless. Dee will be assisted by Mark Edwards. New, Do, Review Madeline Brock will teach this week. September BirthdaysThis week we’ll celebrate those with birthdays in September!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_20_2024_flex.html

This Friday, September 20, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review Madeline Brock and Rebecca Hample will teach. Madeline will review the 3 dances she introduced last week: Kortanc (Hungary), Ajnzerica (Croatia), and Koroglu (Turkey).

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_13_2024_flex.html

This Friday, September 13, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Kathleen Yoder. Kathleen will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, Review Come enjoy some great teaching led by Madeline Brock.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_6_2024_flex.html

This Friday, September 6, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Rebecca Hample. New, Do, Review Robert Sampson will review Cicerenella, the Italian dance he introduced last week. The evening will also include “reviews by request” conducted by several teachers. So have your list of dances ready.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_30_2024_flex.html

This Friday, August 30, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Holly Plotner. Holly will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. New, Do, Review Robert Sampson will kick off the evening by teaching the requested dance Cicerenella. He will be followed by “reviews by request” conducted by several teachers. So have your list of dances ready.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_23_2024_flex.html

This Friday, August 23, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Mike Revesz. Mike will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review Franklin Houston and Lisa Horn Dielman will conclude their tour of COOL Texas standards. We’ll practice the Texas One Step and Texas Two Step and sample a little bit of Texas Triple Two Step. Be sure to make this final week; we’ll start boot scootin’ right at 7PM!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_16_2024_flex.html

This Friday, August 16, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Kathleen Yoder. She will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. New, Do, Review This week, Franklin Houston and Lisa Horn Dielman continue their tour of some COOL Texas standards. We’ll continue exploring Texas One Step and add on Texas Two Step, with perhaps a little bit of Texas Triple Two Step. If you didn’t catch the first week, be sure to be there at 7PM so you won’t miss a thing!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_2_2024_flex.html

This Friday, August 2, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Anthony Toprac. Anthony will be assisted by Pat Potts. New, Do, Review Join Kathleen McDonagh for two dances with beautiful songs that make you want to sing along: Tou Paradeisou Lemonia (“Lemon Tree of Paradise”) and Bulgaria dance Sadi Moma. Kathleen will also review Cimpoi, recently taught by Lisa Horn Dielman.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_26_2024_flex.html

This Friday, July 26, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Kathleen Yoder. Kathleen will be assisted by Donna Baker. New, Do, Review Lisa Horn Dielman will teach Cimpoi. Then Lisa and others will do Reviews by Request! This is where we take requests from the class for review. It doesn’t have to be a whole dance – it can be a transition, a small part of a dance, or a few steps that need a little revisit. All are welcome! July BirthdaysThis week we’ll celebrate those with birthdays in July!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_19_2024_flex.html

This Friday, July 19, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Lisa Horn Dielman and Franklin Houston will co-host a fun evening of dancing, featuring recently taught dances and old favorites New, Do, ReviewFranklin Houston will review the dances he presented last week: Rukavice (Slavonian/Croatian), Mandinades (Greek island dances), and Floricica/Floričika (Bulgarian Vlach). Lisa Horn Dielman will then teach Schottische d’Auvergne (French) and Cimpoi (Romanian) Balkan Singers & Live Music This week we’ll be treated to the lively and danceable tunes of the Austin Balkan Singers. Live music will also be provided by Don Weeda

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_12_2024_flex.html

This Friday, July 12, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by John (Janos) Scales. Janos will be assisted by Kym Oltrogge. New, Do, Review Holly Plotner will review some of the dances she presented last week: What she taught last week: Mahala Mori Shej, Minka, and Auauauau. Later Franklin Houston will present dances popular at AIFD 50 years ago – Rukavice, a Slavonian/Croatian circle dance; Mandinades, a medley of three easy line dances from the Greek islands of Crete, Rhodes, and Ikaria; and Floricica/Floričika, a Bulgarian Vlach line dance.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_5_2024_flex.html

This Friday, July 5, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Pat Potts. New, Do, Review This week in New, Do and Review Holly Plotner will teach us three dances: Mahala Mori Shej, by Steve and Susan Kotansky, to haunting Roma music. Introduced to AIFD just before Covid lockdown; Minka, from Yves Moreau, an easy Bulgarian women’s dance. An old favorite of ours. Auauauau, by Romanian choreographer Daniel Sandu, learned from Roberto Bagnoli. An easy, sassy dance to fun contemporary music. Come early – you don’t want to miss this!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_28_2024_flex.html

This Friday, June 28, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh.

New, Do, Review This week in Summer School by Request! In addition to assisting, Kathleen McDonagh will review two dances she taught two weeks ago – Sandansko Horo and Sedi Donka. She will also teach Tsakonikos. All are welcome at 7 to New, Do and Review!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_21_2024_flex.html

This Friday, June 21, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Holly Plotner. Holly will be assisted by Mark Edwards. New, Do, ReviewThis week we are continuing with Summer School by Request! in New, Do and Review. By special request, Donna Hinman and Roy Hinman will teach St. Bernard’s Waltz. Lisa_Horn_Dielman and Rebecca Hample will review Maple Leaf Rag, which was taught two weeks ago, and Lisa will review Bavno Horo, which she taught last week. Come at 7 to enjoy the fun! All are welcome!”

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_14_2024_flex.html

This Friday, June 14, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Kathleen Yoder. Kathleen will be assisted by Misi Tsurikov. Live Music!!!This week we’ll be treated to the lively tunes of Prosciutto Bandits!!! New, Do, Review Join the team of teachers Madeline Brock, Kathleen McDonagh, and Lisa Horn Dielman at New, Do and Review as they go over some of the dances that Prosciutto Bandits will be playing live on Friday!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_7_2024_flex.html

This Friday, June 7, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Dee McCandless. New, Do, ReviewThis week is the beginning of Summer School by Request in New, Do and Review. This week Rebecca Hample and Misi Tsurikov will review Salty Dog Rag, and Maple Leaf Rag. If time permits, they will teach the basic Texas Two Step. Come at 7 to start the summer fun!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_31_2024_flex.html

This Friday, May 31, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Misi Tsurikov. Misi will be assisted by Donna Baker. May Birthdays and the Texas Camp Band!!!This week we’ll celebrate those with birthdays in May and dance to the tunes performed by the Texas Camp Band!! New, Do, Review In New, Do and Review this week Franklin Houston will review Sardana. By request, Rebecca Hample will teach Salty Dog Rag. Everyone come at 7 for the fun!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_24_2024_flex.html

This Friday, May 24, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Reminder, HRC is closed this week. Instead we will meet at Dancers Workshop Austin*, 11150 Research Blvd #205, Austin (map). *Please wear soft soled, non-marking shoes to dance in. Also no food or drinks except water in a closed container. This week’s program:Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Misi Tsurikov. New, Do, ReviewThis week in New, Do and Review: In celebration of our demonstration at Atria Senior Living on Thursday, and the Greek Festival this weekend Misi Tsurikov, Rebecca Hample and Madeline Brock will teach Greek dances. Everyone come join the fun. Yasou!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_17_2024_flex.html

This Friday, May 17, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Volunteer Appreciation Night!!!Join us for a special evening where we will recognize the many teachers, DJs, assistants, and other volunteers who made this year a success! This week’s program:Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Dee McCandless. Dee will be assisted by Misi Tsurikov. New, Do, ReviewThis week in New, Do, Review Holly Plotner will review the SAFDF dances she taught last week: Kaži Suto from Serbia and Al Je Ljepo from the Croatian minority in present day Hungary. And by request, Franklin Houston will teach Sardana from Catalonia.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_10_2024_flex.html

This Friday, May 10, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program:Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Anthony Toprac. Anthony will be assisted by John (Janos) Scales. New, Do, ReviewThis week for New, Do, and Review Holly Plotner will review the dances she taught last week – Draganinata from Bulgaria, Vallja e Pllanës from Albania, and Fado Portugues, a Sacred Circle dance. Then she will teach two dances from SAFDF – Kazi Suto from Serbia and Aj Je Ljepo from Croatia. Come join the fun!”

Elections of Directors for AIFD for 2024 will be held during dancing on Friday, May 10, 2024, at Hancock Recreation Center. Current members of AIFD are eligible to vote.

Officer nominees for 2024 are:

President–Madeline Brock
Vice President–Jeff Kessell
Treasurer–Marcia Toprac
Teaching Director–Rebecca Hample
Program Director–Donna Baker
Secretary–John Scales

We thank our outgoing Directors for their service–Peggy Wingate, who served as Secretary, and Misi Tsurikov, who served as Program Director.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_3_2024_flex.html

This Friday, May 3, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program:Enjoy a fun evening of dancing DJ’d by Kathleen Yoder. TeachingCome to New, Do and Review at 7 for some easy new dances taught by Holly Plotner and Anne Alexander. Their main teaching will be Vallja e Pllanës, a fun Albanian dance – with scarves!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_19_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, April 19, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program:Enjoy a fun evening dancing DJ’d by John (Janos) Scales. John will be assisted by Anthony Toprac. Teaching This week Rebecca Hample will review the dances Lisa taught last week: Alenelul and Gras Kolo. She may throw in an addional dance time permitting. Live Music:This week we’ll be treated to the live Music of Slavadillo.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_12_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, April 12, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program:Enjoy a fun evening dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. . Arrive at 7 for another one hour mini workshop with Austin Dance India. Anu Niampallywill introduce some more traditional dances from India

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_5_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, April 5, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program:Enjoy a fun evening dancing DJ’d by Kathleen. Kathleen will be assisted by Lisa Horn Dielman. Teaching:Lisa will also be this week’s teacher. She will present dances that have been requested: Gras Kolo and Alunelul (and possibly more).

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_29_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, March 29, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening dancing DJ’d by John (Janos) Scales. John will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. Celebration!!!This week we’ll celebrate March Birthdays and Anniversaries!!! Teaching: Rebecca Hample will review the Dandiya, taught two weeks ago by Anu Niampally of Austin Dance India. Rebecca will then teach some dances from last week’s SAFDF.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_22_2024_flex.html:

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_15_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, March 15, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Misi Tsurikov. Mini Workshop 7-8 pm: This week we will kick off the evening with teaching by Anu Niampally of Austin Dance India. Anu will introduce some traditional dances from India. Please arrive at 7 to take full advantage of this fun event.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_8_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, March 8, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a fun evening of your favorite classics and recently-taught dances (and maybe a surprise or two) DJ’d by Franklin Houston. Franklin will be assisted by Pearl Ohlsson. Live Music: This week we’ll be treated to the dance tunes of Prosciutto Bandits!!! Teaching: This week New, Do and Review will focus on Review. Rebecca Hample, Kathleen McDonagh, and Holly Plotner will review dances taught in the past few weeks. This will include De Secerat, an easy Romanian dance set to upbeat music from Sonia & Cristian, which Holly will review. Everyone is welcome! AIFD Mini Workshop March 15, 7-8 pmOn Friday, March 15, during the teaching hour, AIFD will host a mini workshop with Anu Niampally of Austin Dance India. Anu will introduce some traditional dances from India.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/March_1_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, March 1, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Kathleen Yoder. Kathleen will be assisted by Anne Alexander. Teaching: Come enjoy some lively teaching by Kathleen McDonaugh. AIFD Mini Workshop March 15, 7-8 pmOn Friday, March 15, during the teaching hour, AIFD will host a mini workshop with Anu Niampally of Austin Dance India. Anu will introduce some traditional dances from India.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_23_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, February 23, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Donna Baker. Teaching: This week Rebecca Hample will review Hai Ne Ne Ne that Emily Doubt taught last week. Emily will be out of town, and sends her “grapiest” wishes. By request, there will also be a Shimmy by Lisa lesson. If we have time, Rebecca will teach another dance. Join us to see what it will be!

Michael Martin Baker Those who danced with AIFD in the 1990s may remember Leslie Robson Gompf and Bob Gompf. It is with great sadness that we annouce the passing of Leslie’s oldest son, Michael Martin Baker. A nice tribute to Michael is included in the announcement of a gathering of family & friends for Michael on Saturday, February 24, 2024 beginning at 1:00 PM at Cook Walden Funeral Home, 6100 N. Lamar Blvd, Texas 78752, followed by a celebration of life gathering at 2:00 PM.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_16_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, February 16, 7-9:45, at AIFD: This week’s program: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Franklin Houston. Franklin will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. Teaching: This week join us as Emily Doubt teaches Hai Ne Ne Ne, a dance we learned at camp from Roberto Bagnoli. Also, Misi Tsurikov will review Branle Gai Alsacien. Rebecca Hample will review An Dro, taught by Franklin last week, and continue with other related dances, aka ‘The An Dro Sisters’.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_9_2024_flex.html:

Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Holly Plotner. Holly will be assisted by Pearl Olhsson.

Teaching: This week Rebecca Hample will review Shantel, which she taught last week. In addtion, and in support of all the new folks who have joined AIFD, she will review some of AIFD’s favorites.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/February_2_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, February 2, 7-9:45, at AIFD: Our DJ this week will be John “Janos” Scales. John will be assisted by Dee McCandless Teaching: This week Rebecca Hample will teach one of our favorites: Shantel. Shantel may be new or review for you, and we can all enjoy doing it together. (You may remember it was on the schedule at the end of December, but that didn’t work out, so we will do it this week.) If time permits, we will add another fun dance. Be ready to dance right at 7, as teaching will end at 7:45 this week. Looking forward to see you all!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_26_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, Jan 26, at AIFD: This Friday at dancing we’ll celebrate January Birthdays and Anniversaries. Our DJ this week will be Misi Tsurikov. Teaching throughout January: Teaching: Stephanie Anderson and John Scales will guide us over the final hills and through the woods of Odina Jonsson’s Bakmes to review the partnering skills and turning steps we’ve worked on this month. Franklin Houston will start at 7PM with his Bulgarian dance tour, warming up with Pravo, Četvorno, and Eleno Mome, followed by some easy Kopanica variations and a teaching of Krivo Slivniško.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_19_2024_flex.html:

This Friday, Jan 19, at AIFD: Enjoy a lively evening of dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. Live Music!!!This week!!! come dance to the lively tunes of 1001 Nights Orchestra!!! Teaching throughout January: Join us throughout January for Bakmes and Balkan! Stephanie Anderson and John Scales will guide us over the peaks of Scandinavian dance to help us elevate our partnering skills as we learn Odina Jonsson’s Bakmes. Franklin Houston will continue his tour of Bulgarian dance rhythms. We’ll start right at 7, warming up with Pravo and Četvorno, then explore Kopanica and Krivo Slivniško. Time permitting, we’ll even take a look at Eleno Mome!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_12_2024_flex.html:

Enjoy a lively evening of dancing DJ’d by John “Janos” Scales. John will be assisted by Pearl Ohlsson.

Teaching throughout January: Join us throughout January for Bakmes and Balkan! Stephanie Anderson and John Scales will guide us over the peaks of Scandinavian dance to help us elevate our partnering skills as we learn Odina Jonsson’s Bakmes. Franklin Houston will lead a magical mystery tour through the enchanted forest of Bulgarian dance rhythms found in Pravo Trakiysko Horo, Kopanica, Krivo Slivniško, Eleno Mome, and Jove Male Mome. Be there and B squared in January!

Kaye Roth memorial: Saturday, Jan 13:It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kaye Roth. A memorial service for Kaye will be held on Saturday, January 13th, 2pm, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 3003 Northland Dr, Austin, TX 78757. The service will be followed by an informal reception on church grounds.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/January_5_2024_flex.html:

This Friday at AIFD: Enjoy a lively evening of dancing DJ’d by Anthony Toprac. Anthony will be assited by Donna Baker.

Teaching throughout January: Join us throughout January for Bakmes and Balkan! Stephanie Andersonand John Scales will guide us over the peaks of Scandinavian dance to help us elevate our partnering skills as we learn Odina Jonsson’s Bakmes. Franklin Houston will lead a magical mystery tour through the enchanted forest of Bulgarian dance rhythms found in Pravo Trakiysko Horo, Kopanica, Krivo Slivniško, Eleno Mome, and Jove Male Mome. Be there and B squared in January!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_29_2023_flex.html:

This Friday!!! New Year’s Masquerade Ball party!!!Come celebrate the New Year on Friday, December 29 at the Masquerade Ball! There will be Live Music by the Texas Camp Band, light refreshments, and wonderful dancing. Wear a masque and dress up, wear your favorite International costume, or come as you are. We will have a few extra masques if you need one. Hope to see you there!!

Teaching: Join us for a pre-party New, Do and Review of some of the dances the Camp Band will be playing. Rebecca Hample, Misi Tsurikov and Franklin Houston will review Shantel, Ziguenerpolka, Hora Veche, and Dramskoto. Everyone is welcome to join whether these dances are new or review for you!

Kaye Roth:It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kaye Roth. A memorial service for Kaye will be held on Saturday, January 13th, 2pm, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 3003 Northland Dr, Austin, TX 78757. The service will be followed by an informal reception on church grounds. Kaye Saves The Day!!!! – a memory of Kaye by Dena Houston. One Sunday afternoon, Franklin and I hosted an AIFD potluck supper at our house. Those were the days before potlucks were organized, so potluck really meant “luck”. Almost everyone had arrived and we had only desserts and salads. The serving table was resplendent with everything but a main dish. We then noticed Kaye walking up to our house carrying a huge covered serving dish. The smell of Kaye’s homemade lasagna preceded her. When she came in, everyone applauded. Kaye saved the day!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_22_2023_flex.html:

This Friday at AIFD: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing with DJ Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Donna Baker.

Teaching: Teaching: In New, Do and Review this week Misi Tsuriko and Rebecca Hambple will review Corlu and Maple Leaf Rag, and teach Ada’s Kujawiak #1. All are welcome to join!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_15_2023_flex.html:

This Friday at AIFD: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing with DJ Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Jeff Kessel.

Teaching: Come enjoy another installment of New, Do, Review as Misi Tsurikov and Rebecca Hample teach Maple Leaf Rag from Texas Camp 2023.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_8_2023_flex.html:

This Friday at AIFD: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing with DJ Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Pearl Olhsson.

Teaching: In this week’s New, Do and Review we will have more dances from around the world that were taught at Texas Camp. Lisa will review Evangelina from Mexico, which she taught last week, Franklin Houston will teach Krivo Slivniško from Bulgaria, and Misi Tsurikov will teach Branle Gai Alsacien from France. All are welcome!

This week we will be treated to a performance by Austin’s own Hungarian group Csardas!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_1_2023_flex.html.

This Friday at AIFD: Enjoy a lively evening of folk dancing with DJ John (Janos) Scales. John will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. Teaching: This week’s teaching will include presentations/reviews of dances taught at last week’s Texas Camp!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_24_2023_flex.html.

AIFD will not meet at HRC this week. Hope to see you at Texas Camp!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_17_2023_flex.html.

Texas Camp Band plays!! This week enjoy the lively danceable tunes of Texas Camp Band as members practice for Texas Camp!!! Our DJ for this lively event will be Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Pearl Olhsson.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_10_2023_flex.html.

Link of the week: For this week’s Link of the Week enjoy a video taken by Misi Tsurikov of last Friday’s Day of the Dead performance at AIFD by La Strada!!! …And thanks to everyone who helped make this a fabulous success!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_3_2023_flex.html.

Day of the Dead Party!!! This Friday we are celebrating the Day of the Dead, and remembering all the teachers who have given us dances, music, and an understanding of different cultures through the years. If you’d like to bring a picture or other remembrance of a special teacher who was this person for you, we’ll have an Ofrenda table and you can place it there. La Strada is providing live music, and we’ll have sparkling water, cookies, and, of course, some candy! See you all there! Our DJ for this lively event will be Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Donna Baker.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_27_2023_flex.html.

We’re celebrating two things this week at AIFD:Halloween–so come in costume! Birthdays in October!We’ll be serving cake and sparkling water, so come and enjoy the party!!

Our DJ this week will be Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Franklin Houston. She’ll be playing some spooky tunes for our dances

Teaching: Everyone is welcome for another session of New, Do and Review. This week Robert Sampson will review the East Coast Swing he taught last week.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_13_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by John (Janos) Scales.

Teaching: Come on time for another session of New, Do and Review! We will be teaching dances to prepare for our live music night on November 3rd.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_6_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Donna Baker.

Teaching: This week in New, Do and Review Rebecca Hample will review Salty Dog Rag, which she taught last week. Then Rebecca and Madeline Brock will teach some of the dances requested in the Please Teach notebook. Join us to see what dances they will be! All are welcome!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_29_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Misi Tsurikov. Misi will be assisted by Jeff Kessel.

Teaching: Come enjoy this week’s session of New, Do, and Review.

Also this week we’ll celebrate September Birthdays and Anniversaries!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_22_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Dee McCandless. Dee will be assisted by Misi Tsurikov.

Teaching: Rebecca Hample will lead this week’s session of New, Do and Review.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_15_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Holly Plotner. Holly will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. This week’s program will be devoted to a tribute to Yves Moreau.

Teaching: In this week’s session of New, Do and Review, Kathleen will teach dances that Yves Moreau introduced.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_8_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Donna Baker.

Teaching: Join Madeline Brock this week for New, Do and Review to learn some fun dances as we move into Fall.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_1_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Robert Sampson. Robert will be assisted by Anthony Toprac.

Teaching: Join us this week for New, Do and Review as we recap the summer fun and learn something new!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_25_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by John (Janos) Scales.

We’ll be treated to the Live Music of GypsyCaravan!!! GypsyCaravan plays authentic Greek, Turkish, Armenian, Jewish, Jazz, Latin, Arabic, Gypsy, Slavic and World fav. You can find them on Facebook at facebook.com/gypsycaravansa

Teaching: Come to New, Do and Review to review some of the dances that will be done by GypsyCaravan. All are welcome!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_11_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Franklin Houston. Franklin will be assisted by Lisa Horn Dielman.

Teaching: Come to New, Do and Review for a review of Jaimale by Kathleen McDonagh. We will also learn some of the dances that will be done by GypsyCaravan on August 25. All are welcome!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_11_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Anthony Toprac. Anthony will be assisted by Pearl Ohlsson.

Teaching: This week join Robert Sampson as he brings two requested dances to New, Do and Review – Western Trio Mixer and Never on Sunday. Look forward to more dances to keep up the skills we have already learned and to prepare for fun events to come!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/August_4_2023_flex.html.

This Friday!!! Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Franklin Houston.

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Teaching: This week in New, Do and Review Rebecca Hample and Misi Tsurikov will teach something that has been requested – partnering! Come to learn, practice and have fun dancing together.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_28_2023_flex.html.

Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. Live Music!!! This week we’ll be treated to the live music of Don Weeda and the 1001 Nights Orchestra. Teaching: To get the most out of 1001 Nights Orchestra, the evening will kick off with a review of the dances the band will play. Everyone is encouraged to arrive in time for the first hour.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_21_2023_flex.html.

Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Robert Sampson. Robert will be assisted by Jeff Kessel.

Teaching: Come this Friday to learn one of the dances from our Please Teach request book – Jaimalé, taught by Kathleen McDonagh. Also this week and next week we will do and review dances that Don Weeda and his band 1001 Nights will play live on July 28. Everyone is encouraged to join the First Hour Fun!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_14_2023_flex.html.

Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by John (Janos) Scales. Janos will be assisted by Pearl Olhsson.

Teaching: Preview of the First Hour: Ever wondered what all the talk is about condiments and insect sounds in folk dancing? Come this Friday to learn Mixed Pickles and the Buzz Step Turn with Madeline Brock! Then you will learn some dances with those steps. These two steps happen so often in folk dancing, they will be a great ones for everyone to New, Do and Review!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/July_7_2023_flex.html.

Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’d by Misi Tsurikov. Misi will be assisted by Donna Baker.

Teaching: This week we will continue the New, Do and Review. We encourage dancers of all experience levels to join in the fun. You might learn something new, it’s always good to review the basics, and we will enjoy doing the dances together.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_30_2023_flex.html.

Teaching: This week Rebecca Hample and Misi Tsurikov will conduct the New, Do and Review. We encourage dancers of all experience levels to join in the fun. You might learn something new, it’s always good to review the basics, and we will enjoy doing the dances together.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_23_2023_flex.html.

Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing. Our DJ this week will be Holly Plotner. Holly will be assisted by Donna Baker.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_16_2023_flex.html.

Enjoy a fun evening of folk dancing DJ’s by Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. Some of our dance tunes will be provided by Homegrown International. Homegrown International will also provide the music for this week’s contra, which will be called by Marc Airhart. Teaching: This week we will continue our New, Do and Review session with more dancing fundamentals. We encourage dancers of all experience levels to join in the fun. You might learn something new, it’s always good to review the basics, and we will enjoy doing the dances together. We will also review some of the dances that will be performed by Homegrown International. – Rebecca Hample

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_9_2023_flex.html.

Lisa Dielman will be our DJ this week. She will be assisted by Pearl Olhsson. Teaching: This week we will continue our New, Do and Review session with more dancing fundamentals. We encourage dancers of all experience levels to join in the fun. You might learn something new, it’s always good to review the basics, and we will enjoy doing the dances together. June 9 and 16 we will also be reviewing some of the dances that Homegrown International will be playing live on June 16. – Rebecca Hample (our new Teaching Director).

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/June_2_2023_flex.html.

Franklin Houston will be our DJ this week. He will be assisted by Anne Alexander. Come join them for some of your old favorites as well as some surprises! Upcoming Live Music: On June 16, Homegrown will be providing live music for the evening.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_26_2023_flex.html.

This week, May 22-26, HRC is closed for maintenance. So on Friday, May 26, we will meet at the Go Dance studio, 2525 W Anderson Ln #530, Gallery room, in Northcross Mall. The entrance is on the west side, next to Guitar Center. Please read the “Studio Use Policy” below.

Our DJ this Friday, May 26, will be Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Donna Baker.

Teaching: Just like last week, Misi and Rebecca will tag-team to bring you informal walkthroughs of our favorite dances — likely focusing heavily on Greek, so you can be ready for Austin Greek Festival (see right)!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_19_2023_flex.html.

This week, May 19, join AIFD for a fun evening of folk dancing. This week’s DJ will be Misi Tsurikov. Misi will be assisted by Anne Alexander.

Our Teacher Appreciation Night was a blast! Each teacher was given an orchid and led their favorite dance. Pictured are Emily, Rebecca, Lisa, Kathleen, Madeline and Misi. Missing are Holly and Franklin who are represented by an orchid with a mask, and a pair of tennis shoes in front of an orchid for our picture. Hooray, these teachers are fabulous! – Peggy Wingate.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_12_2023_flex.html.

This week, May 12, join AIFD for a fun evening of folk dancing. Our DJ is still TBD. Pearl Olhsson will assist. Teaching: This is not only election night … it’s also teacher appreciation night! We’ve had a fantastic corps of teachers in the last 12 months, and we will honor them throughout the night for their teaching talents.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/May_5_2023_flex.html.

This week, May 5, join AIFD for a fun evening of folk dancing with DJ Franklin Houston. Franklin will be assisted by Donna Baker.

Live Music!!! This week we will also be treated to the lively and danceable music of Slavadillo!!!

Teaching: Come early for some dances that will warm you up and get your feet jumping! Franklin will begin the evening by leading a number of recently-taught dances and some personal favorites (that range from easy to “not-so-easy.”) 😉 Then get ready for some familiar favorites performed by Slavadillo!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_28_2023_flex.html.

This week, April 28, join AIFD for a fun evening of folk dancing with DJ Lisa Horn Dielman. Lisa will be assisted by Jeff Kessel.

AIFD Board Elections 2023-24: Elections will be held at our membership meeting at dancing on May 12, 2023. We have a list of nominations – see below! Other nominations can also be made until election night. We will announce these in the newsletter, on election night, or both. Current nominations: President: Madeline Brock Vice president: Jeff Kessel Secretary: Peggy Wingate Treasurer: Marcia Toprac Teaching director: Rebecca Hample Program director: Misi Tsurikov If you would like to run for the board, please contact Bill Brock at president@aifd.cc. Current board. Board positions and responsibilities.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/April_21_2023_flex.html.

This week, April 21, we are back at Hancock Recreation Center (HRC). Our DJ will be Dee McCandless. Dee will be assisted by Mark Edwards.

Teaching: This week, don’t miss Rebecca Hample reviewing some of the SAFDF 2023 dances that she brought to you in past weeks — and, possibly, a touch-up review of Zigeunerpolka!

AIFD Board Elections 2023-24: Elections will be held at our membership meeting at dancing on May 12, 2023. We have a list of nominations – see below! Other nominations can also be made until election night. We will announce these in the newsletter, on election night, or both. Current nominations: President: Madeline Brock Vice president: Jeff Kessel Secretary: Peggy Wingate Treasurer: Marcia Toprac Teaching director: Rebecca Hample Program director: Misi Tsurikov If you would like to run for the board, please contact Bill Brock at president@aifd.cc. Current board. Board positions and responsibilities.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_30_2022_flex.html.

Celebrate New Years a day early!!!Madeline Brock will DJ this fun evening of dancing. Live music will be provided by La Strada!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_23_2022_flex.html.

Happy Holidays from AIFD. No dancing at HRC this week. We’ll be back next week, December 30th!!!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_16_2022_flex.html.

Hancock’s Holly Jolly Jamboree and Toy Drive!!Join AIFD this Friday as we teach cultural dances as part of the 2022 Jamboree. Hancock’s Holly Jolly Jamboree & Toy Drive is the perfect time to meet your neighbors, enjoy some holiday crafts, and make a toy donation for a child at the Helping Hand Home. Come join us on Friday, December 16, 2022 from 6-9 pm for an evening of live music, cultural dances, and hot chocolate. This is a free event. For full details check out the event website. Our DJ for this special event will be John Scales. John will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. Several folks will teach and demonstrate dances to the community. This is a great opportunity to show how much fun dancing is and encourage folks to become regular Friday night attendees.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_9_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, December 9, 7:00-9:45, join AIFD for a fun evening of international folk dancing at HRC. $5 at the door (18 and up). Holly Plotner DJs, Lila Luce assists. From Holly: “Tx Camp Highlights! We’ll dance through many of the new introductions from Camp.” Teaching: Last week we began teaching dances from Texas Camp 2022… this week we continue! Come and enjoy learning from the thrilling teaching trio of Rebecca Hample, Emily Doubt, and Kathleen McDonagh! Please sign inHRC needs an accurate account of attendance. Please sign in yourself and those accompanying you.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/December_2_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, December 2, 7:00-9:45, join AIFD for a fun evening of international folk dancing at HRC. $5 at the door (18 and up). Franklin will be our DJ and Kathleen will assist. Franklin will play a mixture of old classics, dances from Texas Camp 2022, and of course your requests. Teaching: This week we begin teaching many of the fun and wonderful dances that Yves Moreau, France Bourque-Moreau, Roo Lester, and Ahmet Lüleci taught us at Texas Camp 2022. Come and enjoy new dances and new teachers!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_25_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, November 25: No dancing – Hope to see you at Texas Camp, either in person or online. Did you miss your chance to register for the in person Texas Camp[? Consider ZOOMING IN!!! Full details at tifd.org

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_18_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, November 18, 7:00-9:45, join AIFD for a fun evening of international folk dancing at HRC. $5 at the door (18 and up). Madeline Brock DJs. Lila Luce assists. Texas Camp Band plays!!This week enjoy the lively danceable tunes of Texas Camp Band as members practice for Texas Camp!!! No Dancing at HRC next week, November 25. Hope to see you at Texas Camp.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_11_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, November 11: No dancing – Hancock Rec Center closed in honor of Veterans Day.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/November_4_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, November 4, 7:00-9:45, join AIFD for a fun evening of international folk dancing at HRC. $5 at the door (18 and up). Dee McCandless DJs. Franklin Houston assists. Teaching: Come at 7 pm sharp so you don’t miss any of Lisa Dielman’s fun and friendly newcomer sessions! We may see an influx of new folks who found out about AIFD at Polkapocalypse 2022, and there’s no better way to welcome them than with Lisa’s great teaching. No Dancing at HRC next week, November 11. Hancock Rec Center will be closed.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_28_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, October 28, 7:00-9:45, join AIFD for a fun evening of international folk dancing at HRC. $5 at the door (18 and up). Get ready for our Halloween Party, DJ’d by AIFD’s high priestes of fun, Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Pearl Olhsson. Costumes encouraged! AIFD will provide cookies and drinks.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_21_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, October 21, 7:00-9:45, join AIFD for a fun evening of international folk dancing at HRC. $5 at the door (18 and up). Texas Camp Preview Program! Holly Plotner will be our DJ this week. Holly’s program will focus on dances from this year’s Texas Camp teachers: Ahmet, Roo, Yves and France. Holly will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. Teaching: Come at 7 pm so you don’t miss more excellent dance teaching and reviewing from Madeline Brock!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_14_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, October 14, 7:00-9:45, join AIFD for a fun evening of international folk dancing at HRC. $5 at the door (18 and up). We don’t have a DJ yet, but absolutely will by Friday. (S)He will be assisted by Dee McCandless. Teaching: Come at 7 pm for Madeline Brock’s wonderful teaching! You will see many of our favorites, such as Arap, Orijent, Tino Mori, Bal De Jugon, and Mindrele. Then, later in the evening, don’t miss Emily Doubt reviewing the dances she recently taught — Valle Jarnana and Batjovata Baldazka!

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/October_7_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, October 7, 7:00-9:45, join AIFD for a fun evening of international folk dancing at HRC. $5 at the door (18 and up). Live Streaming!!!This Friday folk dancing at AIFD will also be the openning event for SAFDF – Fall weekend ZOOM festival and will be live streamed over Zoom!!! Our DJ this week will be Madeline Brock. Madeline will be assisted by Jeff Kessel. This week we will be treated to the lively tunes of Slavadillo!! Teaching: Come at 7 pm to enjoy more exciting and excellent teaching from Lisa Dielman. Lisa will teach Jianul de la Slanic and review Salty Dog Rag.

This week’s newsletter: newsletter.aifd.cc/September_30_2022_flex.html.

This Friday, September 30, 7:00-9:45, join AIFD for a fun evening of international folk dancing at HRC. $5 at the door (18 and up). Our DJ this week will be Mike Revesz. Mike will be assisted by Kathleen McDonagh. Teaching: Come at 7 pm for Kathleen’s review of the dances she taught us last week — Jaimale (French Israeli), Kleftes (Greek), and Kotlensko Oro (Macedonian). Then, we are delighted to welcome Emily Doubt in her teaching debut at AIFD! Beginning at 8:30 pm, she will teach us Valle Jarnana (Albanian) and Batjovata Baldazka (Bulgarian). Pssst… Next week Slavadillo plays!!!