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What is the Difference Between a Ceilidh and a Barn Dance?

Essentially very little - both are traditional dance forms, using a caller and folk music.  A ceilidh tends to have  more variety and a little more emphasis on the ‘Celtic’ tunes - perhaps giving it a bit more of an  edge??

Do We Need to Have Any Experience?

No!  This is one of the reasons why ceilidhs are such fun - absolutely no previous experience is required. You will run through each dance with the dance "Caller" before the dance proper begins. When the Caller thinks you are ready, he/she will summon the band to start the music and away you go. Instructions will continue to be given throughout the dance to help you.  The caller will not expect you to get every movement correct (in fact half the fun is getting it wrong and then trying to catch up) as long a you are somewhere near and enjoying yourselves.

Where Can We Hold a Ceilidh?

You can hold a ceilidh in almost any suitable sized function room. Social Clubs, Village Halls, Barns, Schools, Church Halls, Hotels, and Marquees are some of the favourites but provided you are prepared to risk the weather you can even hold one outside. The floor surface required should ideally be clear of obstructions, reasonably clean, level and with a hard surface.  For safety, it should not be slippery eg wet or highly polished.

Just give us a ring if you are in any way unsure and we will be happy to advise.

Do I Need to Provide Any Equipment?

The only thing we ask is that there is adequate lighting for both the band and dancers.  The band will bring its own Public Address (P.A.) system which will require a 230/240V  (13 amp) power supply.  If the event is to be held outside, the equipment and band will need some protection from the weather - our instruments don't like getting wet.  

How many people will I need to hold a dance?

You should aim for at least 40 plus.  This will give people a chance to have a rest or a drink without feeling obliged to take part in every dance just to make up the numbers. Don't forget that children love to dance so why not bring them along too. You could hold a dance with fewer people but they would all have to be very willing participants with stamina to match.

                                      

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