Welcome New Dancers!
Thanks for coming!
Click here to see David Frantz's 2023 photo album
It was a huge success, and we are already looking forward to next year.
Any feedback on 2023 Meltdown?
Are you interested in helping out next year?
Want to be added to the Meltdown email list to keep up to date?
Send a note to us to let us know your interest!
New to contra dancing or Carolina Meltdown? Carolina Meltdown is our annual dance weekend that has been held for decades at a lovely YMCA Camp on Lake Wylie, SC. It runs from Friday evening with events throughout the weekend ending Sunday afternoon.
2023 Awesome Bands
Note that the info below is for 2023 and may not apply to 2024
Gaslight Tinkers - The Gaslight Tinkers' blend of global rhythms creates a joyously danceable sound around a core of traditional New England old time and celtic fiddle music, merging boundless positive energy with melody and song. Since its formation in 2012 the band has lit up the East Coast, the West Coast, and the Caribbean, headlining clubs, dances, and major festivals. Playing what The Valley Advocate describes as “Music that consistently fizzes and pops with unexpected textures and turns,” The Gaslight Tinkers’ shows are packed with delightful surprises, elated crowds, and exuberant musicianship. The sound and energy of Audrey, Jopey, Garrett, and Peter are universally irresistible.
Check them out!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0ICzWnQmn8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rY05qk27Dms
The Dam Beavers - are Ben Schreiber on fiddle, Scotty Leach on piano, and Ness Smith-Savedoff on drums. With roots in a wide variety of styles and genres, their music comprises an eclectic mix of old and new, familiar and unfamiliar. Let the current sweep you away as the Dam Beavers build a dam of rhythm beneath your feet.
Check them out!
Short clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcaODt_GPRM
Long clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pABROJK7tHo
The Amazing Callers
Will Mentor - is a contra and square dance caller from Northern Vermont known for his clear teaching, upbeat wit, and relaxed stage presence. He loves to choreograph evenings with a variety of dances and tempos that at times surprise and always delight, all the while keeping intact his guiding principle as a caller: "It's about the dancers!"
Seth Tepfer - Seth Tepfer teaches adults and children to dance in less than 60 seconds. He calls dances for adults and children like you've never seen before. Known for his infectious energy, his short walk-thru's, and his 'hash-contras', Seth's warm enthusiasm is contagious, and gets everyone moving, smiling, and having a great time. Whatever the dance, you can be certain that all involved - novices and experienced dancers alike - will go away happy and eager to dance more!
The AWESOME SOUND
Ed Howe - the sound man and violin virtuoso
The Saturday Night ROWDY ROCKABILLY REUNION!
It's been 3 years, so get ready for the Saturday night Rowdy Rockin' Reunion! Break out your poodle skirts, saddle shoes, leather jackets, pomade and dance the night away to our great lineup. No squares! No Pat Boone impersonators LOL!
Dining
Join us Friday for POTLUCK! Dinner begins at 6:30 pm. Bring your favorite food to share!
Need vegetarian, vegan, or gluten free? No problem - just let us know on your registration form!
Saturday lunch and dinner, and Sunday Lunch are provided this year by Camp Thunderbird if you purchased the meal plan.
We have added a Cookie Break on Saturday afternoon, so feel free to bring your favorite baked goods to share. Gluten free treats are always appreciated.
Sleeping Arrangements?
Note: Camp Thunderbird is very gracious hosting us, but they have asked us not to call about cabins. They are not staffed like a hotel or a campground. Please do not call them and ask about cabins. Please contact us with any questions!
We have enjoyed the close quarters cabins of Camp Thunderbird for many years of Meltdowns. This year, as a nod to lingering Covid concerns, we are not offering lodging options in the cabins. Many happy memories abound around bunkbeds and kid-sized showers but this year, we will make different memories. 2024 will see us rubbing elbows in the cabins and on the dance floor yet again!
Available are local hotels (Charlotte, NC near Carowinds, Fort Mill, SC and Rock Hill, SC). Camping is available at nearby McDowell Park (704/588-5224).
Also, feel free to reach out to your Charlotte area friends to see if they have space! Or make a new friend by posting on our Facebook page to see what the natives might have!
Remember NO CAMPING at Camp Thunderbird.
Workshops and Special Events - See the above section for the latest schedule download!g
Regular Pricing after Jan 15th - Ticket Sales End Thursday 11:30PM
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All Dances and Workshops - Saturday Lunch/Dinner and Sunday Lunch $165
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All Dances and Workshops - No Meals $130
REFUND POLICY
50% Refund minus $15 will be issued up to 7 days before the dance.
No refunds within a week of the dance, but contact us to transfer tickets.
Contact & Registration Information
Carol Deacon – threedogfarm@comporium.net or
(803) 517-6288. Please text message first, if possible.
If you can’t attend, please check with Carol to see if there is a waiting list before selling your ticket.
Charlotte Contra Dancers understands the unique situation and circumstances of each community member and emphasizes personal responsibility during this transition back to dancing.
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Dancers are free to make their own decisions regarding vaccinations and masks, but neither are required to attend our dances.
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If you do choose to wear a mask, we support that without judgement.
Lodging Options
Local hotels did not offer any group rates or blocks of room.
But here are some local hotel ideas that are within 20 minutes to the dance
Tru by Hilton Charlotte Ayrsley
Holiday Inn Express and Suites
Springhill Suites Charlotte at Carowinds
If you are local or from out of town and want to host someone or are asking for a place, please post on our Facebook event forum