Everyone loves a good, old-fashioned square dance for entertainment, for exercise and for sense of community. On Friday, Aug. 18, the front of the Chocolate Church Arts Center Annex, located at 804 Washington Street, will be come an open air square dance called by the incomparable Al Hipkins. The evening will include a few songs from the beloved Rogers & Hammerstein’s musical OKLAHOMA currently in rehearsal. Members of The Sage Square Dance Club will demonstrate easy to learn moves for audience participation. 

Participants only need to arrive with a good attitude for the introductory class open to all ages and skill level from 5-5:30 p.m. Dancing will begin by 6 p.m. when songs will be called based on allemande left, right and left grand, swing, promenade, ladies chain, stars, and circles. Hipkins will call dances to favorite tunes from the show “The Farmer and The Cowman,” “All Er Nuthin’” and the venerable title “Oklahoma!”

Al Hipkins started square dancing in 1972 and begin his calling career in 2006. Hipkins will be joined by The Sage Square and Round Dance Club of Bath/Brunswick/Topsham area. This Club was established 50 years ago and is the largest such club in New England with a membership of 115 dancers. 

This square dance is a community-building event that highlights this form of dance and illustrates the versatility of the musical score of “Oklahoma!”  This production, directed by Thom Watson, will open the 40th Anniversary theatrical season on the main stage at the Chocolate Church, September 15-17 and 22-24. Tickets are available online www.chocolatechurcharts.org or by calling the box office 207-442-8455.  Cast members will be present to dance and to sing also.

There is no charge for this entertaining evening of music and dance. Dancing is not mandatory but having fun is. Light refreshments will be available. It is suggested but not required to sign up in advance for the 5:30pm Introduction Class by calling 207-442-8455 or by email info@chocolatechurch.com.