Portland Raindance

Talent

April 23-25, 2027

The Faux Paws

Music by The Faux Paws

The Faux Paws return to Norse Hall with a sound that refuses to stay neatly inside any one musical box. The band that grew out of the deep contra-dance roots features Noah VanNorstrand playing hot fiddle, longtime musical collaborator Dean Miller on sax and banjo, Owen Morrison on guitar and feet, and Dana Billings on drums. Their combination of rhythmic drive, inventive playing, and sheer musical personality makes them a particularly exciting dance band.

Highwire

Music by Highwire

Highwire is a new five-member band of multi-instrumentalists. After frequently playing together in smaller combinations we are excited to hear the sound of this big band. Highwire features Julie Metcalf on fiddle, Max Newman on guitar, Stuart Kenney on bass and banjo, Noah VanNorstrand on mandolin, and Matt Kenney on drums. We’re excited to have them bringing their music and energy to the Raindance stage.

Cis Hinkle

Calling by Cis Hinkle

Atlanta, Georgia

Cis Hinkle, who has delighted dancers since 1985 with her skilled teaching, welcoming manner, playful enthusiasm, and masterful selection of dances, considers herself a ‘facilitator of fun’. She’s in great demand at music and dance festivals all over the US, England, Denmark, and beyond. When not on the road, Cis teaches tai chi classes in her native Atlanta, Georgia.

Liz Nelson

Calling by Liz Nelson

Western Massachusetts

Liz Nelson, based in western Massachusetts, brings clear teaching, warm and welcoming energy, and a steady presence to dances and festivals around the country, creating an atmosphere where dancers of all ages and experience levels can find joy on the dance floor.

Callers will use the terms Larks and Robins.

John Oorthuys

Sound by John Oorthuys

Highly regarded by dancers, musicians, and callers for his high-quality sound work, John Oorthuys has handled the sound board for many dances, balls, camps, and special events for PCDC and surrounding Pacific Northwest communities. He has been Raindance’s sound engineer for years and years, and his wizardry makes the sound fantastic.