Your Dance

If you are arranging fundraising event, social gathering, wedding, birthday or other family celebration why not have a ceilidh, ceili, barn dance, or hoe-down? It doesn’t matter what you call it, you will have an evening of friendly activity, dancing sometimes in small sets and sometimes with everyone else. The emphasis will be on having fun. Getting it right is a bonus but my motto is "When in doubt, cheat". This kind of dancing is suitable for everyone* and almost any age. Young children need to be supervised for safety, but can enjoy dancing with their parents. Older children will dance with partners of their own choice. For some dances I will ask children and those dancing with them to form a separate set from adult couples, and maybe vary the dance slightly. If your group includes older or less energetic dancers I will mix in some gentle dances. Most  dances are for couples, some for threesomes. You do not need to come with a partner, or keep the same partner all evening. Couples can be same-sex, parents can include a young child in their ’couple’. 

As the caller I choose a programme of dances that will suit your group, encourage people to get up and have a try, explain the moves and give you a practice before the music starts. While the music is playing I remind you what to do.

A good band makes all the difference to your enjoyment, and I work with several. Contact me to discuss your preferences. If you have a favourite band I would be glad of the chance call with them.

You need to book the hall, make sure you have confirmed the date with me and the band, decided what refreshments (if any) and drinks (water jugs, BYO, or bar) are needed, invite your guests or sell tickets. Then away we go.
When children are present someone needs to be responsible for supervising other parts of the building, as I am busy with the dancers.

If you want a theme to your event, let me know. The same traditional dance figures can be arranged to make dances to suit many party themes. I have done childrens parties for Cowboys, and Peter Pan Characters, also an adult Jane Austin party, and regularly call for a Sealed Knot banquet with dances from 1650.

If your dance is a fundraiser I can help you advertise tickets through  dance websites and discussion groups. Please ask me.

*If you group includes people with special needs please discuss with me in advance so that I can think about my programme with them in mind.

Answers to other  FAQ on my website