This month we are looking forward to a visit from Jessica Abrahams, who will be teaching us some unusual waltzes and three-time bourrées; and we'll also have a guest spot from trio Metadrone, with pipes and hurdy gurdy! It's also St David's Day, so there might be a Welsh tune or two. Feel free to wear a daffodil! The workshop runs from 12.45 to 1.45pm. Then a bring-your-own indoor picnic lunch (with tea and coffee on hand), followed by a bal with live music from around 2pm. Music by the Shivelight Duo (Harriet Power and Sam Doolin), Metadrone, and friends. £6 for workshop & bal - pay on the door
The rest of our dates for this half-year are all first Sundays:
1st March
5th April
3rd May
7th June
A bal is the European equivalent of a ceilidh, with a mixture of couple dances (such as the waltz and mazurka), circle dances (such as the Chapelloise) and dances done in long winding lines (such as the Breton hanter dro). The dances are not called, but they are easy to pick up. No need to bring a partner.
Beginners are very welcome, as are musicians to play for the dancing.
Note: the event is in the hall at the back of Watlington House - entrance through the large gate on South Street. There is limited parking, in the Watlington House car park (off South Street) or on the front yard (Watlington Street) - to avoid doubt, you can use the Queen's Road (paying) car park only 5 mins walk away.
Check your route first, as Reading has a major-level one way system!
For those coming by train, see here for routes from Reading Station:
SEE ALSO: our associated European Tunes Session, on the first Thursday of each month, at the Butler, Chatham Street, Reading, 8.30 - 11pm. Come and learn the Balfolk repertoire, or just enjoy the music.
If you would like to join our mailing list, please send an email to readingbalfolk@gmail.com or use the form on the Contact Us page. See you at the bal!