Schuhplattling: Nothing
is more recognized throughout the world nor more representative of
Bavaria and the Austrian Tyrol than Schuhplattler dancing.
Schuhplattling,
which literally translates to shoe-slapping, can be traced back to the
11th-14th century. It is considered a mimic of the
male Auerhahn bird who courts the female by flapping his
wings and kicking up his feet around a circle. The woman plays her part
by spinning, as a way to challenge the man. Indeed, it is difficult
for the man to catch the woman to waltz with him.
The Tracht
(formal dress-wear) worn by the men
and women dancers has remained unchanged, for the most part, for
over 200 years.
The
Lancaster Alpenrose Schuhplattler Verein performs a variety of folk
dances from both Germany and Austria. Adults and children of all ages
participate in these dances. The group performs at our 2 annual fest fundraisers: Sommerfest, 2nd weekend in June and Oktoberfest, 3rd weekend in September; and also at most scheduled club events (see
club performance list below.)
The Alpenrose Schuhplattlers hosted an impromptu Heimatabend at the club following a day of Judging workshops in preparation for Gaufest held in Orlando, Florida in July.
- Jungendfest, 2011:
The Mid-Atlantic Jugend
Workshop, hosted by the Alpenrose Schuhplattler Verein, was held at the
Lancaster Liederkranz on March 19, 2011. We had 24 participating
couples made up of 23 girls and 13 boys.
They represented the
Auerhahn Schuhplattlers, GTV Edelweiss, United German Hungarians, GTV
Almrausch and the Alpenrose Schuhplattlers, all from Pennsylvania;
Enzian Volkstanzgruppe from Delaware and the GTEV Schlierachtaler Stamm
from New York. Alpenland Taenzer from Connecticut also attended as
observers.
Performances: We can provide from 2 to 6 or more couples to perform at your dance festivals, banquets, restaurant, club, or organization.
Practices: Practices are generally held on Monday evenings 7:30-9:00 p.m. at the
club. All are welcome. No prior knowledge of dancing is required; Come
out and have fun, dance, meet new friends, and be part of a traditional
family activity.
Contact Information: For more information regarding practices or performances, please contact: Paul Stanavageor call 717-656-0281
Kindergruppe: Click Here for information on our children's dance group, the Alpenrose Kindergruppe.
Seated left to right: Elaine Kuhn, Brenda Arbenz, Michelle Draeger, Katie Coon, Teresa Wiedemer, Barbara Trostle, Barbi Stanavage Standing left to right: Russ Kuhn, Ed Ostrum, Ralph Draeger, vorplattler-Paul Stanavage, Mark Stanavage, John Blank, Accordion Accompanist: Tom Markow
Our Flag: At right, is the first flag of the Alpenrose Schuhplattler Verein. The flag, handmade in Germany, was dedicated at the Alpenrose's Fahnenweihe held at the Lancaster Host Resort, June 30-July 2, 2006.
The flag design depicts the culture and traditions of German heritage that the Verein strives to uphold; the reverse side honors the rich farmland of Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania, home of the Lancaster Liederkranz Alpenrose Schuhplattlers. The flag is considered a visual representation of the Verein.
Club Performances: The Alpenrose Schuhplatters perform at most Club events including those listed below. These events are open to the public. Check our club calendars for specific dates, or call the club: 717-898-8451(M-F after 4pm)
* Cabbage Hill Day (March) * Bockbier Fest (March) * Student Day (March) * Maitanz (May) * Sommerfest (June) * Oktoberfest (September) * PA Renaissance Faire (September) * Stiftungfest (November)