Dance in the Desert 2023

Dance in the Desert

2023

Nov 10-12

Sorry, registration is closed for this year!

Bands

The Dam Beavers

The Dam Beavers are Ben Schreiber on fiddle, Scotty Leach on piano, and Ness Smith-Savedoff on drums.   

Turnip the Beet

Kelsey Wells and Jeremy Lekich

Callers

Gaye Fifer

Jacqui Grennan


  • Camp


    Only an hour and a half from Tucson and two hours from Phoenix, the Triangle Y Ranch Camp is located in the northern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. At a 5000 foot elevation, the camp’s 400 acres provide beautiful scenery and ample facilities. Dance on our custom-made, resilient wood floor, and enjoy the amazing view of the San Pedro river valley from the dining hall. Hike and explore the surrounding Coronado National Forest in the Arizona sunshine.


    Check-in opens at 3:00 p.m. on Friday. Please try to arrive before dark (5:30pm) to get settled in your cabin or camping spot.  Camp begins with supper, followed by a dance. We start Saturday with a hearty breakfast, then prepare for a full day of workshops for dancers, singers, and musicians. Saturday night’s gala dance will be followed by late night jamming. Sunday morning features more music and dance, and the weekend concludes with a dance after lunch on Sunday. Camp closes at 3:00 p.m.


    Rustic cabins each house up to twelve campers in bunks and share nearby rest rooms and shower houses. Cabins are designated family, mixed-gender, or single gender, and will be available on a first-come basis at camp.  Some handicapped accommodations are available. There is plenty of space for tent camping and RV parking. A new shower house for campers was built in 2018.  You can also arrange your own off-site accommodations and receive a discount on your registration fee.


    Six hearty meals (Friday supper through Sunday lunch) plus delightful snacks will be provided. There is a vegetarian option.


    Making It Happen

    Other than the musicians and callers, Dance in the Desert is entirely run by volunteers. Each camper is asked to do one chore at camp. Let us know in advance if you have any special needs or talents.


    A limited number of partial work scholarships (2-3 hours of work) are available for those needing financial assistance. Please note on the registration form if you wish to request a work scholarship.



  • Cost


    $290 per person 
    Includes:



    • 2 nights lodging

    • 6 meals

    • All dancing

    • All workshops

    • Snacks

    • Music jams

    • Camaraderie and fun with old friends and new


    Discounts for: (only greatest discount applies)



    • Participants under 30 years old ($50 off)

    • First timers ($25 off)

    • Arrange your own off-site lodging ($70 off)


    Limited Work Scholarships also available.


    Important:
    Registration is not complete until your payment is received by the registrar. Please use the online form to submit your registration. You must have an active email address to register.  You can pay online using PayPal after submitting the registration form, or mail a check to:


    Tucson Friends of Traditional Music (TFTM)
    c/o Maureen Hrabar
    PO Box 36624
    Tucson Arizona 85740


      You will receive an e-mail or phone notification of receipt.   If you have any problems registering or have any questions please email Karen at 2023DitD@gmail.com.  


  • Map



    Triangle Y Ranch Camp: 34434 S. Y Camp Rd, Oracle 85623


    FROM CENTRAL TUCSON -1 hour from downtown
    Head north for 25 miles on Oracle Road (Highway 79), continuing through the town of Catalina to the town of Oracle Junction. At Oracle Junction, bear to the right onto Highway 77 and travel for 11 miles to the town of Oracle. When you arrive at the Oracle turnoff, turn right and travel through the town of Oracle on the American Way Blvd. Continue on American Way Blvd. For 2.5 miles, then turn right at the sign to Mt. Lemmon (Old Mt. Lemmon Road). Continue on the Old Mt. Lemmon Road for 4 miles, until you reach a fork in the road. At this point, the road turns to dirt. Take the road to the right and continue for another 1.6 miles. Turn right at the YMCA Triangle Y Ranch sign. Travel on the road for a bunch of miles, go through the front gate of the camp and follow the signs.


    FROM TUCSON -using I-10
    Travel west to Ina Road, Exit 248. Turn right onto Ina Road and continue to Oracle Road. Turn left onto Oracle Road, continuing through the town of Catalina to the town of Oracle Junction. At Oracle Junction, bear to the right onto Highway 77 and travel for 11 miles to the town of Oracle. When you arrive at the Oracle turnoff, turn right and travel through the town of Oracle on the American Way Blvd. Continue on American Way Blvd. For 2.5 miles, then turn right at the sign to Mt. Lemmon (Old Mt. Lemmon Road). Continue on the Old Mt. Lemmon Road for 4 miles, until you reach a fork in the road. At this point, the road turns to dirt. Take the road to the right and continue for another 1.6 miles. Turn right at the YMCA Triangle Y Ranch sign. Travel on the road for a bunch of miles, go through the front gate of the camp and follow the signs.


    FROM PHOENIX -2 hours and 20 minutes from downtown
    Travel east on I-10 to Tangerine Road, Exit 240. Turn left onto Tangerine Road and continue to Oracle Road (about 9 miles.) Turn left onto Oracle Road, continuing through the town of Catalina to the town of Oracle Junction. At Oracle Junction, bear to the right onto Highway 77 and travel for 11 miles to the town of Oracle. When you arrive at the Oracle turnoff, turn right and travel through the town of Oracle on the American Way Blvd. Continue on American Way Blvd. For 2.5 miles, then turn right at the sign to Mt. Lemmon (Old Mt. Lemmon Road). Continue on the Old Mt. Lemmon Road for 4 miles, until you reach a fork in the road. At this point, the road turns to dirt. Take the road to the right and continue for another 1.6 miles. Turn right at the YMCA Triangle Y Ranch sign. Travel on the road for a bunch of miles, go through the front gate of the camp and follow the signs.



  • T-shirt


    2023 DitD T-Shirt


    So Sorry but T-Shirt Orders have closed.



    Designed by Randy Hobbs


    Cost: $25


    Design will be printed on Hanes Perfect-T Crew Neck shirts.  Men’s and Women’s shirts are available.  You must pre-order! 


    Click for Mens Sizing Chart


    Click for Women’s Sizing Chart



  • What to bring


    What to bring to Dance in the Desert

    What to bring checklist


    •Masks if desired (or required due to high transmission rates)


    • several changes of loose, comfy clothes for dancing; dress in layers to be prepared for both hot and cold
    • everyone finds they need extra pairs of cushy socks!
    • perhaps something special to wear for the Saturday night dance
    • sweater/coat/raincoat – the weather can be quite variable in Oracle this time of year
    • hiking boots and binoculars if going on nature walk
    • clean, soft-soled shoes for dancing (no spike heels please, they hurt our dance floor)
    • regular, sturdy shoes for walking around camp – you’ll walk on a lot of gravel and dirt
    • bedding (pillow, pillowcase, sleeping bag or sheets & blankets, if in cabin; sleeping bag, pillow, pillowcase, air mattress if camping)
    • towels/washcloth/shower shoes
    • toiletries, and something to carry them in (include moisturizing lotion, lip balm, sunscreen, and any medications you might need)
    • sunglasses and extra glasses or contact lenses
    • musical instruments !
    • flash light, extra batteries and robe for that middle-of-the-night run to the restroom
    • money if you want to purchase raffle tickets, t-shirts, CDs
    • a copy of the online map and directions in case you get lost on the way
    • if you have special dietary needs other than the omnivore and vegetarian diets we provide, then you’ll need to bring your own food


    If camping


    • tent (it’s been forgotten before)
    • groundcloth in case of rain


    WHAT NOT TO BRING


    • pets
    • alcohol
    • We reserve the few electrical outlets in the camping area for those with electrical medical equipment. If you’re one of these folks, please let us know now, so we can make sure one will be available for you. Otherwise, those camping out should plan to either leave the appliances behind, or to carry them up to the shower house and use them there.  There are NO electrical outlets for RVs.



  • Health Policy


    Dance in the Desert Health Safety Policy


    We will not require proof of COVID-19 vaccination. We do recommend that attendees receive the latest COVID vaccination, which lowers the risk of serious illness and hospitalization. In the event of a spike in COVID transmission which might cause a cancellation of our weekend, we may require a negative Rapid Antigen Test for entry. We intend for masking to remain an individual choice. Please do not attend if you are experiencing illness.


  • Schedule


     


    2023 DITD Schedule


    Click Here for Schedule



  • Pre Weekend Setup


    Pre-Weekend Setup

    The Pre-Weekend Setup (PWS) is an opportunity for us to get some help preparing for camp, while we offer you a chance to socialize and get a preview of the great music and dance in store for you during camp. You can get in some extra dancing, jamming, or hiking time. Many of the staff and our talented local folks will be there. There is a $45 charge that helps offset what the Y-Camp charges for our PWS time plus we provide three meals; dinner on Thursday, breakfast and lunch on Friday. Space is limited and registration will be first come, first served. PWS starts on Thursday, November 9, 2023. Please arrive at 1pm ready to start your assignment. 



  • Raffle


     


    A favorite Saturday evening event during camp, our raffle helps offset the cost of producing Dance In The Desert. Contribute in two ways: First bring and donate new and/or gently used items you know others would be happy to have, then buy plenty of raffle tickets so you can win new treasures to take home . Wonderful hand made soap, fine pottery, hand made walking sticks, beautiful embroidered wall hangings, and lovely home made skirts are only a few of the things previously offered and available at a fraction of their cost by purchasing raffle tickets! 


    We also host a clothing exchange: bring new or gently used clothing to hang on the exchange rack – leave some, take some.  Enjoy!


  • Y Camp
  • 1GCCDiningRoom 394high
  • Y DanceHall
  • Contra Dance Tucson General

About the Bands

Dam Beavers

Dam Beavers

THE DAM BEAVERS:  Once upon a time there was a small rodent named Bevo who woke up suddenly one morning after having a really good dream. In this dream, he had seen dancers dancing and smiling together, all moving in sync to a three piece band of beavers playing instruments. Bevo set out to find the musicians he had seen in his vision. He looked in rivers, lakes, and even ponds! To his dismay, he couldn’t find any beavers that played music or even had any interest in playing an instrument. Since Bevo had already booked a contra dance weekend with his Beaver band, he called Ben Schreiber, Scotty Leach, and Ness Smith-Savedoff to fulfill his vision. Luckily, they all were super excited about Bevo’s ideas. As Bevo hung up the phone, Scotty heard him exclaim, “Those Dam Beavers!!!” and that’s how our name was born.

Turnip the Beet

Turnip the Beet

Turnip the Beet is a dance band duo from Nashville, Tennessee. Rooted in the traditions of Southern Appalachia and local contra dances, Kelsey Wells and Jeremy Lekich combine fiddle, guitar, percussion, and the occasional banjo in an innovative and jubilant musical harvest. Expect to hear an organic mix of eclectic tunes from the American South, Ireland, Cape Breton, Quebec, and Scandinavia, as well as a half-bushel of grooving, homegrown originals.

About the Callers

Wendy Graham

Gaye Fifer

Gaye Fifer is an accomplished caller from Pittsburgh, PA. An active dancer herself, Gaye understands the subtleties of making dances particularly satisfying for dancers. Her instructions are clear and concise, as she is a teacher by profession. An easy smile and delightful sense of humor are part of Gaye’s relaxed, pleasant style at the microphone. Gaye calls contra and English dances throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is also an enthusiastic advocate and instructor of contra-style waltz. Gaye currently President of the Board of CDSS.

Jacqui Grennan Jacqui Grennan

Jacqui Grennan started contra dancing in Los Angeles, CA, in 2009. Since then, she’s taken a deep dive into folk dancing, first as a contra caller, then choreographer, then English Country Dance caller and choreographer, and now taking on the challenge of learning modern western square dancing. These experiences of trying new things at different skill levels has enhanced her ability to consider different ways of teaching and learning. She is known for her clear and caring teaching with a stage presence that is a blend of calmness and dynamism. She considers herself the host of a dance party who wants to help everyone have a good time. When Jacqui isn’t calling or dancing at contra dances and English Country dances around the nation, she likes to host BBQs at her home, learn various musical instruments, hang out with her cat, and work on home projects.

Contact us about any questions you may have.

Dance in the Desert

2023

Nov 10-12

Sorry, registration is closed for this year!

Bands

The Dam Beavers

\"\"

The Dam Beavers are Ben Schreiber on fiddle, Scotty Leach on piano, and Ness Smith-Savedoff on drums. 
 

Turnip the Beet

\"\"

Kelsey Wells and Jeremy Lekich

 

Callers

Gaye Fifer

\"\"

Jacqui Grennan

\"\"

Camp

Only an hour and a half from Tucson and two hours from Phoenix, the Triangle Y Ranch Camp is located in the northern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. At a 5000 foot elevation, the camp’s 400 acres provide beautiful scenery and ample facilities. Dance on our custom-made, resilient wood floor, and enjoy the amazing view of the San Pedro river valley from the dining hall. Hike and explore the surrounding Coronado National Forest in the Arizona sunshine.

Check-in opens at 3:00 p.m. on Friday. Please try to arrive before dark (5:30pm) to get settled in your cabin or camping spot.  Camp begins with supper, followed by a dance. We start Saturday with a hearty breakfast, then prepare for a full day of workshops for dancers, singers, and musicians. Saturday night’s gala dance will be followed by late night jamming. Sunday morning features more music and dance, and the weekend concludes with a dance after lunch on Sunday. Camp closes at 3:00 p.m.

\"\"Rustic cabins each house up to twelve campers in bunks and share nearby rest rooms and shower houses. Cabins are designated family, mixed-gender, or single gender, and will be available on a first-come basis at camp.  Some handicapped accommodations are available. There is plenty of space for tent camping and RV parking. A new shower house for campers was built in 2018.  You can also arrange your own off-site accommodations and receive a discount on your registration fee.

Six hearty meals (Friday supper through Sunday lunch) plus delightful snacks will be provided. There is a vegetarian option.

Making It Happen

Other than the musicians and callers, Dance in the Desert is entirely run by volunteers. Each camper is asked to do one chore at camp. Let us know in advance if you have any special needs or talents.

A limited number of partial work scholarships (2-3 hours of work) are available for those needing financial assistance. Please note on the registration form if you wish to request a work scholarship.

  • Y Camp
  • 1GCCDiningRoom 394high
  • Y DanceHall
  • Contra Dance Tucson General

About the Bands

Dam Beavers

Dam Beavers

THE DAM BEAVERS:  Once upon a time there was a small rodent named Bevo who woke up suddenly one morning after having a really good dream. In this dream, he had seen dancers dancing and smiling together, all moving in sync to a three piece band of beavers playing instruments. Bevo set out to find the musicians he had seen in his vision. He looked in rivers, lakes, and even ponds! To his dismay, he couldn\’t find any beavers that played music or even had any interest in playing an instrument. Since Bevo had already booked a contra dance weekend with his Beaver band, he called Ben Schreiber, Scotty Leach, and Ness Smith-Savedoff to fulfill his vision. Luckily, they all were super excited about Bevo\’s ideas. As Bevo hung up the phone, Scotty heard him exclaim, \”Those Dam Beavers!!!\” and that\’s how our name was born.

Turnip the Beet

Turnip the Beet

Turnip the Beet is a dance band duo from Nashville, Tennessee. Rooted in the traditions of Southern Appalachia and local contra dances, Kelsey Wells and Jeremy Lekich combine fiddle, guitar, percussion, and the occasional banjo in an innovative and jubilant musical harvest. Expect to hear an organic mix of eclectic tunes from the American South, Ireland, Cape Breton, Quebec, and Scandinavia, as well as a half-bushel of grooving, homegrown originals.

About the Callers

Wendy Graham

Gaye Fifer

Gaye Fifer is an accomplished caller from Pittsburgh, PA. An active dancer herself, Gaye understands the subtleties of making dances particularly satisfying for dancers. Her instructions are clear and concise, as she is a teacher by profession. An easy smile and delightful sense of humor are part of Gaye\’s relaxed, pleasant style at the microphone. Gaye calls contra and English dances throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is also an enthusiastic advocate and instructor of contra-style waltz. Gaye currently President of the Board of CDSS.

Jacqui Grennan
Jacqui Grennan

Jacqui Grennan started contra dancing in Los Angeles, CA, in 2009. Since then, she’s taken a deep dive into folk dancing, first as a contra caller, then choreographer, then English Country Dance caller and choreographer, and now taking on the challenge of learning modern western square dancing. These experiences of trying new things at different skill levels has enhanced her ability to consider different ways of teaching and learning. She is known for her clear and caring teaching with a stage presence that is a blend of calmness and dynamism. She considers herself the host of a dance party who wants to help everyone have a good time. When Jacqui isn’t calling or dancing at contra dances and English Country dances around the nation, she likes to host BBQs at her home, learn various musical instruments, hang out with her cat, and work on home projects.

Contact us about any questions you may have.