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Lynsey Rice
Photos courtesy of Cedric N. Chaterly

Lynsey Rice

Flatfoot dancer and clogger Buncombe County, NC

Lynsey Rice, a young clogger, flatfooter, and buck dancer, says she will never forget her mountain heritage. She is a member of the Freeman family, who have distinguished themselves as traditional artists for multiple generations. Rice’s mother Loretta Freeman is a well-known area clogger and buck dancer, and her grandfather Gordon Freeman was an old-time fiddler of wide renown. Great-uncle Arvil Freeman is also a greatly admired fiddler, and a mentor to dozens of younger musicians. Ted White, a member of Asheville’s Whitewater Bluegrass Company, says of Lynsey, “She dances the way Arvil Freeman plays the fiddle.”

Rice grew up in the Asheville area, and has been dancing since early childhood. She learned by watching her mother, with whom she often performs. They make an effective tandem team, demonstrating and teaching their dancing techniques.

Lynsey has performed at numerous area venues and events, including the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, the Blue Ridge Traditions series at Old Fort’s Mountain Gateway Museum, Shindig on the Green, the Music in the Mountains Festival, and at Maggie Valley’s Stomping Grounds.

Availability

Lynsey Rice is available to perform with clogging groups, with Loretta Freeman, or solo. She can demonstrate a variety of traditional dancing styles, and can assist in teaching, and will consider requests for private lessons.