Southern New England Witch Dancers Return to Barrington This Weekend

The 'Spring Fling' performance marks a return to Library Cove for the dance Troupe, which now considers Barrington its second home. The Troupe’s relationship with the library began about two years ago when Creative Director, Bernie Courtney, contacted Community Engagement librarian Siobhan Egan hoping to rent rehearsal space. Egan was intrigued to learn of the witch dancers and happy to help. “We were very excited to offer that space.”

Now the Troupe regularly rehearses in the library gallery, has used the spacious auditorium for dress rehearsals and, on one occasion, a photo shoot. As a way of saying thank you to the library for its generosity, the Troupe offers free witch dance classes each year. Egan: “We’re just very happy to support the witch dancers. Whether using the library for practice or performance space, we see it as a really great addition to our community building here in Barrington. My boss Kris [Library Director Kristen Chin] and I both love the witch dancers.”

The SNE Witch Dance Troupe emerged onto the event circuit in 2022 and quickly saw its popularity soar. Performing choreography from the original German Wolfshäger Hexenbruts – such as the dazzling ‘Shake Your Bacon' – the dancers ignited audiences with their colourful costumes and infectious energy. For this year’s Barrington ‘Spring Fling’ the Troupe will perform some old favourites and several new repertory pieces choreographed by Courtney. “We’ll perform two of our newest dances, 'Full Moon Chant' and 'Cauldron of Changes'. We’ll also premier our beautiful new torch prop!”

Sunday's performance is a free, family-friendly outdoor event. The Troupe recommends audience members bring a chair and a blanket. NB: Due to inclement weather, the event has been moved from Saturday May 17 to Sunday May 18.