About PTF Membership
Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt welcomes inquiries for membership as a dancer or musician.
No previous folk dance experience needed!
Lütten Youth Dancers (ages 4-8)
Our youngest group of dancers meet on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 - 7:00 under the leadership of co-directors Johann Hinck and Megan Hinck. In addition to learning Pomeranian dances, the children also sing German songs and play German language games. They perform multiple times throughout the year at local festivals. While those as young as 4 years old may join, dancers do not start performing until they turn 5. No previous dance experience is required to join, but we do expect all members to regularly attend practice and, once they are ready, performances. Dance directors have the final say as to when a dancer will be ready to perform. Membership dues are $45 per year, with an additional, one-time tracht (outfit) deposit of $30. Email lutten@ptfusa.org to inquire about Lütten membership for your child(ren)!
Backfische Youth Dancers (ages 9-13)
Our second group of youth dancers meets on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 - 7:00 under the leadership of co-directors Emily Larscheidt and Katie Carmody. They learn more advanced Pomeranian dances and continue building their confidence at public performances. The skills gained in this dance group offer preparedness for both our Jugend/Erwachsenen group and other sports. No previous dance experience is required to join, but we do expect all members to regularly attend practice and, once they are ready, performances. Dance directors have the final say as to when a dancer will be ready to perform. Membership dues are $55 per year, with an additional, one-time tracht (outfit) deposit of $30. Email backfische@ptfusa.org to inquire about Backfische membership for your child(ren)!
Jugend/Erwachsenen combined Youth/Adult Dancers (ages 14+)
Our eldest youth dancers combine with our adult dancers for both practices and performances. They practice on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 - 9:00 and are led by director Craig Tews and assistant director Emily Larscheidt. This group practices and performs most often throughout the year and is a serious commitment. Though no previous dance experience is required to join, we do expect all members to regularly attend practice and, once they are ready, performances. New dancers will also attend an extra beginner’s practice beginning at 7:00. Dance directors have the final say as to when or whether a dancer will be ready to perform. Dancers should be ready for an intense cardio and strength workout when practicing with us. Membership dues are $65 per year, with an additional, one-time tracht (outfit) deposit of $100. Email dancedirector@ptfusa.org to inquire about membership!
Späldeel (Musicians)
Our musicians accompany dancers at all practices and shows, as well as book standalone music performances. We are open to many types of experienced instrumentalists; our musicians over the years have included vocalists, accordionists, guitarists, violinists, flutists, and much more. Musicians should expect to attend dance practices on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 - 9:00. Additional, musicians-only practices may be scheduled as needed. Membership dues are $65 per year, with an additional, one-time tracht (outfit) deposit of $100. Email music@ptfusa.org to inquire about Späldeel membership!