Join us for our popular August dance holiday! This week began as the ‘Guildford Folk Dance Holiday’ in 1977 and has continued to bring together dancers to enjoy folk dance, Halsway and its surroundings to this day.
Hosted by Shirley Williams, we are delighted to welcome caller Jane Thomas to the team for the first time! Jane will lead enjoyable morning dance workshops and evening dances, with top-notch live music provided by Kelly’s Eye. The afternoons include optional organized outings* and activities, or you can relax and enjoy the Manor and its gardens, or explore the area under your own steam.
Prices are half-board, but include Sunday lunch at the Manor, plus a pub lunch & skittles one lunchtime.
* Some outings may incur additional costs.
“A lovely week with friendly people. Musicians very responsive”. Participant
Who’s is it For?
Dancers of all levels and abilities are welcome.
The Team
Jane Thomas has a vivacious personality and is well known for the fun she puts into her calling and dancing. She started calling in 1993 and has called for folk dances and private functions throughout the south west including the Sidmouth Folk Festival. For 25 years she has been instrumental in running the Willand Folk Dance Club. Jane has a wide repertoire of dances and is always looking for the unusual or unexpected twist in a dance. She can cover a wide genre of dances but is probably happiest calling a mixed programme where the longways, squares and sets add to the complexity of the evening’s dance. When not dancing, her hobbies include walking, bird watching and her grand-children.
Kelly’s Eye have been performing at festivals, clubs, ceilidhs, weddings and barn dances since 1970. From a gentle waltz or hornpipe to the liveliest reel or jig, they play dance music that will get your feet tapping. Their talent, experience and sense of humour, combined with a vast repertoire of tunes is guaranteed to turn any social event into a night to remember.
Shirley Williams has hosted this lively and enjoyable week for several years, creating a programme that extends beyond the dancing to ensure you make the most of the lovely West Somerset area during your visit.