While our community has a deep love for English Country Dance, the "IFD" in our name represents an exciting world of movement that spans the globe. From the high-energy line dances of the Balkans to the elegant partner dances of Scandinavia, our International Folk Dance sessions offer a rhythmic journey through diverse cultures.
If you enjoy the community spirit of English Country Dance but want to explore different rhythms, music, and formations, IFD is for you. Our sessions are inclusive, social, and a fantastic workout for both the body and the brain.
Global Repertoire: We feature dances from Bulgaria, Macedonia, Greece, Romania, Israel, France, Scandinavia, and beyond.
Diverse Formations: You’ll experience traditional "village" line dances (Kolo and Oro), intricate "short-line" dances, and beautiful couple dances like the Waltz or Schottische.
No Partner Needed: Most of our dances are done in lines or circles, making it easy for solo dancers to jump right in and connect with the group.
Unique Rhythms: Expand your musical horizons by dancing to complex time signatures—like the 7/8 or 11/16 meters common in Eastern Europe—that you won't often find in Western pop music.
Our IFD program is led by longtime dancer and teacher Mady Newfield. A cornerstone of the Chicago-area folk dance community for decades, Mady brings a wealth of experience, patience, and enthusiasm to the teaching circle.
Expert Instruction: Mady is known for her clear, accessible teaching style. She has a gift for breaking down complex footwork into movements that feel natural and intuitive, even for beginners.
Deep Roots: Beyond our local sessions, Mady has been the organizer and director of June Camp, a Midwest regional international folk dance camp, for nearly a quarter of a century. She has become well-known and respected in the national folk dance circuit.
A Welcoming Guide: Whether you are a seasoned "Kolo" dancer or have never heard a Balkan bagpipe before, Mady ensures everyone feels comfortable and successful on the floor.
Our primary International Folk Dance session meets regularly as part of our Chicagoland West schedule.
The Vibe: Casual, friendly, and focused on the joy of shared movement.
Skill Level: All levels are welcome! We typically begin with easier "warm-up" dances and progress to more complex patterns as the dance goes on, with teaching provided throughout amd adjusted to the participants' needs..
When & Where: Check our Local Dancing page for the current schedule and venue details for the West Suburban sessions.
"Folk dancing is a passport to the world. It’s a way to experience the soul of a culture through its music and movement, all without leaving the suburbs of Chicago."