Since cases due to the Delta variant are still near their peak values in southern New England, the Worcester Contra Dance Committee has decided to not hold a dance in October 2021.
However, there is good news on the horizon. Positive test rates and infection rates in MA, CT, and RI have been on the decline throughout September, including three consecutive days in all three states where the infection rate was below 1.00. These data indicate that the Delta wave in Southern New England is in decline. Yay!!
According to our August 23rd survey that had 55 respondents covering 93 dancers, 80% of respondents when asked if they were ready to return to in-person contra dancing answered either yes (48%) or maybe (32%). So the demand for contra dancing is there. Also consider that the ballroom and square dance communities have been dancing in-person for months.
In light of all of the above conditions, the Worcester Contra Dance Committee has decided to resume in-person dancing beginning on November 13th from 7:30–10:30 PM in the gym at Wesley United Methodist Church, located at 114 Main St. in Worcester, MA. The admission fee is $8 to $10 for adults, $6 to $8 for students, and $20 per family.
Additional requirements for admission of all attendees are as follows:
- Proof of full vaccination OR proof of a negative COVID test taken no more than three days prior to the dance.
- Per City of Worcester mandate, masks are to be worn at all times by everyone in the building.
- Each attendee must provide their name, email address, and cell phone number for contact tracing purposes.
As long as all dancers meet the requirements stated above, they will be admitted, regardless of vaccination status. Given that breakthrough infections can occur in the fully vaccinated, a recent negative COVID test offers us at least as much ability to maintain a healthy dance environment as requiring vaccinations.
The gymnasium where the dance is being held is quite large for the expected number of attendees. We will augment that by placing box fans in front of open windows in at least two locations to provide for the circulation of fresh air. The facility also has several ceiling fans which will assist in that process.
If you have further questions regarding our dance or the admission requirements, please contact us. Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you in November!