Dance Activity Reports

QUEENSLAND

27 July 2014***29th Annual Colonial and Heritage Ball****Morningside School of Arts, Brisbane

After 2 pre-ball practices, costumes and masks organised, musicians and supper arranged, it was time to mingle, fill in the Engagement Cards and be ready for the Grand March and a wonderful night of dancing with the music of the Champion Moreton Bay Band. For photos of previous Balls *** http://members.optusnet.com.au/colonialdance/photos.html

Jan Orloff

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NEW SOUTH WALES

October 13, 2012 **** Flannel Flower Masked Ball **** East Gosford Progress Hall

We couldn’t have been more delighted with our Flannel Flower Masked Ball. Bon Accord thrilled us with their music, but Trish Barker’s arrangement of a selection of Gilbert and Sullivan favourites for the Ballroom Lancers was particularly wonderful. We again enjoyed the MC services of “the amazing John Short” together with our impressive callers, Bill Propert, Fran Bucello, Ian Crook & Stephen Loftus. It seems the dancers enjoyed the varied programme of predominantly easy and “interesting” dances – with an occasional challenge. Photos can be viewed at http://www.ccbdma.org/dance/dance_photos.htm

Robyn Graylin

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June long weekend 2013 ****Bundanoon Dance Fest

A great time was had by lots of dancers and musicians. Check out these photos in this link and you will see what I mean!


 * http://www.erinna.com.au/?p=1045

Jan Orloff

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VICTORIA

9 to 11 Nov 2012**** Spring Dance Weekend **** Portarlington (TSDAV Dec Bulletin)

It gives me great pleasure to write this report on behalf of all those who attended this worthwhile weekend of dance, in the picturesque village of Portarlington. This event is looked forward to with anticipation by many dancers and musicians, in particular the folk who come in increasing numbers from Adelaide. Also this year we had the pleasure of a large contingent from Sydney, some of whom had attended last year and enjoyed themselves sufficiently to return again. It was a pleasure in class to watch their demonstration of the Irish dance formations which made it easier for less experienced people to follow suit.

From beginning to end, there was an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement, due to an excellent and varied programme of dance workshops from the enthusiastic teachers who had been invited to share their knowledge and expertise with us. The standard of dance was elevated to match the experience of the local, and interstate teachers, in particular. The enjoyment was obvious from the stage and the floor. The balance of styles, degree of difficulty and energy requirements, was a good one and for those who chose to sit out an occasional dance the spectacle was pleasing to the eye. The theme 'touch of red' or 'the colour of romance' was keenly adhered to by the dancers and the decorations in the hall and supper room also reflected this. We have received numerous emails and favourable comments regarding the enormous success of the entire weekend which is rewarding for the committee to hear, as it does (as you all know from experience) entail much work behind the scenes, before and during the weekend. The ‘traditional’ Saturday evening barbecue was well attended, with a great variety of food, conversation and beverages !!!

On Saturday evening the musicians played tirelessly a wonderful variety of tunes which were so appropriate, and special mention has been made of the music chosen for Vere's Waltz. The workshops included dances from Australia, Bavaria, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and embraced different styles e.g. contra, couples, set, ceili, and formations of long sets, squares and circles. These were all well taught in a most interesting manner, and were refreshing to execute from a dancers point of view.

At 11 am on Sunday 11th, there was a time of solemnity and remembrance, where it was important to acknowledge the events from the past which have resulted in us having such a wonderful life today. We are very blessed here in Australia. May we go forward to 2013 with renewed enthusiasm in peace and friendship, to meet again soon in the spirit of dance.

Judith Baillie

Thanks very much for the Aussie/Remembrance Day dance session - I enjoyed it, as I did all that I was able to attend over the w/end. The TSDAV team created a brilliant w/end for us, but worked far too hard - I am sure - to ensure this! The choice of dance sessions (i.e. styles), dancing, music, ambience, teas and suppers etc. was brilliant and all much appreciated. Thank you to all involved at TSDAV, and for the weather too!

Carole de Fraga

Joan and Ray Mundy conducted a very enjoyable music workshop on the Saturday afternoon, attended by about 12 musicians. Three Irish dancers also attended, Marie, Mary and Dee, and they demonstrated various dance stepping when requested. Joan stressed that the musicians need to bring out the correct rhythm and tempo for the dancers. Joan supplied sheet music and gave useful hints for a selection of jigs, slip jigs, reels, polkas and waltzes. Some of the attendees also played with the band during the evening dance. And, we were treated to having ‘live’ music for our Weekend Finale – thanks Joan !

John McGregor