Described as “sassy with a little edge” and “suitably weird,” Eric the Cat will entertain contra dancers at the monthly event Saturday, July 25, in Sautee Nacoochee.

The band first played for the Sautee dance last summer, the versatile musicians are no strangers to contra dancers. Eric the Cat has played at these events around the country for longer than they care to admit.

In addition to Eric, who is a cat, the band consists of Karen Gaughan on piano; Alan Dillman on fiddle; Wes Maluk on tenor banjo, mandolin, whistle and guitar; and Terry Maluk on percussion and banjo uke. They play a variety of styles of contra dance music, ranging from New England and Celtic to old-time Appalachian. But it is always with an upbeat twist.

Accompanying the band as the caller is Atlanta woman Deanna Palumbo. A contra, techno contra and square dance caller, she is known for her clear and melodious voice and wide experience with different folk dance genres. She has called for public and private functions.

A multi-talented musician, Palumbo sings, performs in drum circles and street performances and teaches moving meditation and sacred dance. She is an accomplished folk dancer, enjoying a range of genres from contra and traditional square to swing, waltz and Cajun dancing.   

The contra dance will be from 8-11 p.m. July 25 with a free dance lesson at 7:30 p.m. The dance is in the historic gym of the Sautee Nacoochee Center at 2834 Ga. 255 North, one-quarter mile off Ga. 17 in Sautee.

No partner or prior experience is necessary.

Tickets are $7 for SNCA members; $9 for nonmembers; $5 for high school or college students, and free for children 12 and younger.

Call 706-754-3254 or visit www.SNCA.org.