Our feet have had a good long rest from dancing during lockdown. Do we still have the muscle memory to dance? We have programmed a series of dance courses to get you back in the swing of things following the proposed relaxation of restrictions in June. These are dependent on the restrictions being eased but you can still reserve your place now. If the restriction easing is delayed then we’ll reschedule the event for later this summer or can receive a refund if you prefer. Fingers crossed the easing will go ahead as planned and we can dance together again. We will be working in smaller groups than usual and will make the most of the space in the Manor, including our new workshop rooms, so we are well set for safely social events.
First up is French and Breton Dance week Mon 21 – Fri 25 June 2021. A week of expert tuition led by Peter Clifton, and supported by Karen Prager Dancers will be introduced to French couple dances: Scottish, Bourrée, Waltz and Mazurka, and to Breton circle and chain dances. You don’t need to bring a partner for these couple dances! Lesser-known dances will also be taught, including some from the Vendée and Poitou regions.
Then Halsway Contra Dance weekend 25-27 June with Geoff Cubitt leading the dancing, with UK favourites the English Contra Dance Band providing you with high-energy, vibrant, inventive music.
August Folk Dance Holiday Fri 6 – Fri 13 August is a relaxed week of morning dance workshops and evening dances. The afternoons include optional organized activities, or you can relax and enjoy the Manor and its gardens, or explore the area under your own steam.
If you want to combine dance with music and song – for a more rounded experience of folk arts and traditions then the Folk Summer School 30 Aug – 3 Sept is a good choice. For all ages and abilities this fun week is led by a crack team of tutors who have detailed knowledge and extensive experience of a wide spectrum of folk music.
Autumn American Contra 4 – 8 Oct is a popular friendly and fun way for dancers of all levels of experience. Dance workshops take place each morning with fun optional outings and activities in the afternoons.
Remarkably, at the time of writing there are a few places left on our sell out Dances of Poldark weekend in September 2021, and follow-on Poldark Plus week in February 2022. Led by Stuart Marsden (Dancing Master & Choreographer of the acclaimed TV series) with music from the brilliant Warleggan Village Band, Matt Coatsworth, Richard Heacock & Chris Green (Musicians of the same TV series.)
You can see the full list of dance related events here:
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/events/category/courses/dancing/