ROCKPORT — "On Friday, April 10, let your shoes fly to the gorgeous Rockport Opera House for a Spring Forth Dance, the next 'OH! BFS!' program presented by Belfast Flying Shoes, the Rockport Opera House, and the Town of Rockport," said Flying Shoes, in a news release.

The event includes simple and accessible community dances for all ages, contras and squares with gender-neutral role terms, waltzes and more.

"A unique cultural tradition, this intergenerational and chem-free program welcomes new dancers and experienced folks alike," said Flying Shoes.

The fun begins at 6:30 p.m., with Chrissy Fowler calling an easy-to-learn community dance with lively music by Sarah-Hadley Yakir and Kristen Planeaux. Other musicians are welcome to play along with the band during the community dance.

At 7:30 p.m., Maine caller Alyssa Adkins will lead an intro session to welcome those who are new to contra dance, with tips for all experience levels. The contra dance immediately follows, as folks of all ages let their shoes fly across the dance floor.

Contra caller Alyssa Adkins is a farmer and yoga teacher based in Freeport.

"With a cheerful and clear demeanor, Alyssa will help everyone do-si-do and swing their partners with delight," said Flying Shoes.

Sarah-Hadley Yakir is an accomplished musician who has performed in more than 20 countries around the world. Since her childhood training at the NYC-based Special Music School she went on to study at the Hochschule fur Musik and Tanz and the New England Conservatory of Music.

Kristen Planeaux, who plays piano, flute and accordion, was an elementary music teacher in Cincinnati, Ohio through the Orff Shulwerk Certification course. From there she discovered community dancing, and with multiple bands she has contributed to the evolving culture of traditional contra dance music, according to the news release.

Admission for the entire evening is $15-25 sliding scale. (For the first hour’s Community Dance, admission is $1 kids $2 adults.)

The Rockport Opera House is at 6 Central Street in downtown Rockport.

Belfast Flying Shoes was founded in 2005 and has a mission to build community and cultivate well-being through the joys of traditional dance and music. Its nonprofit programs include school residencies and a weekly contra dance music program on Belfast Community Radio/WBFY. Learn more at belfastflyingshoes.org

Built in 1891, the Rockport Opera House is one of the architectural gems of Maine. Owned by the Town of Rockport, the venue hosts concerts, weddings, special events, and community programming throughout the year. For more info visit rockportoperahouse.org