Masterclass in Scandinavian dance comes to Little Island Creamery

On Saturday, April 19 from 1-6 p.m., the rhythm of Scandinavia will be felt and even heard on Cathlamet's Little Island. With the island serving as a local cradle for Wahkiakum County's Swedish, Norwegian and Finnish heritages, Little Island Creamery will host a Scandinavian Dance Workshop and Supper featuring world-renowned dance instructor Beret Bertilsdotter.

Her journey having begun on a small dairy farm in west central Sweden's Jämtland, Bertilsdotter was raised in a traditional lifestyle. She learned early on to have a deep respect for older generations and that folk culture can be the heartbeat of a community. In the 1970s, she joined the folk music revival in Stockholm.

Bertilsdotter's life took a pivotal turn in 1985 when she met her mentor, Ernst Grip. Under his tutelage, she mastered the steps and stories of dances handed down over generations. Today, Bertilsdotter travels the world to teach and spread the joy of folk dancing. Having taught across northern and western Europe, Japan, and the United States, she now brings the traditions of the late 19th century to our local community.

Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a curious beginner, this workshop will introduce you to the waltz, polka, schottis, polska, and hambo. The afternoon also includes a "fika," the cherished Swedish tradition of a coffee and pastry break to re-energize the dancing batteries.

To conclude the day, guests will enjoy a meal with a local flavor. In Swedish tradition, Thursday night dinners consisted of split pea soup and Swedish pancakes. Little Island Creamery will be dishing up their own farm-to-table version of this classic meal and give a fitting tribute to the dairy farm where Mrs. Bertilsdotter's own story began.

Tickets for the afternoon workshop, fika and supper are $50 and available on Little Island Creamery's website. Bring comfortable shoes for dancing, and traditional costumes are encouraged. Space is limited, so be sure to secure your spot for this unforgettable day of music, movement, and history.