6/27/2011
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. –
Lou Maiuri has taught square-dancing, an Appalachian tradition, for decades, and he is inviting new and seasoned dancers to a series of
“Let’s Dance!” appearances at West Virginia State Parks in July. A seasoned caller, Maiuri is a dance instructor of traditional Appalachian dance and modern line dancing. He has won many awards in competition, including three national championships and is the director and founder of Appalachian Country Cloggers.
“Bringing traditional dance and instruction to our state parks is a labor of love for Maiuri,” according to Sissie Summers, program coordinator for West Virginia's state parks. "His love of people and his love for dance are obvious when you attend one of Lou’s dance events."
Beginner or expert, Maiuri welcomes all. “I dearly love to dance,” says Maiuri. Now, at the “tender age” of 80-something, Maiuri and his dance team conduct square-dancing presentations and instruction at various locations across the state. West Virginia’s state parks are a popular stop. “I’ve had some great experiences over the years,” said Maiuri.
Maiuri’s summer schedule at various West Virginia state parks and forests will be a busy one this year. To catch him in action, visit
www.wvstateparks.com for locations and dance times.
Let’s Dance! Appalachian Dance – Square-dancing with Lou Maiuri 2011
• July 1 – Holly River State Park • July 8 – Twin Falls State Park
• July 9 – North Bend State Park
• July 15 – Watoga State Park Recreation Hall, 8 p.m.
• July 16 – Blackwater Falls State Park
• July 21 – Pipestem State Park, Amphitheater Stage
• July 23 – Beech Fork State Park Activities Building
• July 28 – Lost River State Park Activities Building
• July 29 – Cacapon Resort State Park, Cacapon Lodge
About Lou Maiuri
Lou Maiuri is known across the country for his skills as a clogger, flatfooter and old-time mountain-style square dance caller. Music and culture has always played an important part in Maiuri’s life. In particular, he became interested in string music while in his teens, which then sparked his interest in dancing. Shortly after high school, Maiuri was introduced to the older style of flatfoot dancing on trips to Pocahontas County with his father. Subsequent trips eventually led to his participation in square dancing at the Dunmore Community Center.
His love of dancing inspired him to become an instructor of traditional Appalachian dance and modern line dancing, and he has dedicated more than 25 years of his life to sharing Appalachian culture across the country.
A 1998-inductee into America's Clogging Hall of Fame and a 1988-member of the All-American Clogging Team, Maiuri has won countless awards both as a solo performer and a team dancer, and is the founder and director of Appalachian Country Cloggers.
Maiuri has had the opportunity to call square dancing at the New York City Barn Dance, teach and perform at Berea College in Kentucky, and call at the Vandalia Festival, the Appalachian String Band Festival and the August Heritage Festival. He also had the privilege of dancing on stage at the Grand Ole Opry with the Melvin Sloan Dancers during the Opry’s 75th anniversary celebration.
The most heart-felt accomplishment for Maiuri came when he was selected as the 2008 Vandalia Award Winner. The Vandalia Award is West Virginia’s highest folk life honor given to one individual each year for a lifetime contribution to West Virginia’s traditional heritage.
Contact Information
Sissie Summers
304-558-2764
sissie.a.summers@wv.gov