Bakewell’s 16th International Day of Dance

 The Bakewell International Day of Dance has gone from strength to strength and is now celebrating its 16th year - on Saturday 30th June 2018.   For one day every year, the picturesque town of Bakewell hosts a stunning celebration of world music and dance, heralding the start of Bakewell Carnival Week.  On the same day as the Farmers Market and with local well dressings on show, it is a day out not to miss, so join the several thousand people who travel from  around the country to enjoy the dancing, colour and fun. 

This year up to 25 groups will be displaying dance styles from around the world at six outdoor venues from 11.00am to 4.30pm.

You can travel the world with dances from Eastern Europe, Africa, Argentina, Ireland, India, Spain, Egypt and the Appalachian Mountains - there is a great range of traditional folk and upbeat contemporary dance.  There are performers of all ages and styles including Highfields students,  Bollywood, Greek dancers and Swing (including Lindy Hop and Charleston), dances from Angola and South Africa.  We are delighted to welcome back the dancers from Latvia as well as favourites such as Black Pig Border Morris and  Timberline Steve who has drawn in the crowds for years with his precision line dancing group.  Watch out for the captivating Jose Oliva of Feel It and Dance, who will be bringing something a little special to this  year's event and the Well Heeled Appalachian group who perform an energetic lively style of step dancing and have been hosts of the Day of Dance since it started.

Bakewell Day of Dance is very much a community event involving local groups and interests.  There will be opportunities to join in and learn a few basics of the individual dances or you can just relax and enjoy the performances – and it’s all free!  Don’t be put off if it rains as there will be an alternative wet weather programme in the town hall from 11.00 am.

There is also a chance to learn some steps in the workshops that run throughout the day, which will cost £3 for an hour long session.  For further workshop details visit our website address given below.

The whole day will be rounded off in fine style with a ceilidh at Bakewell Town Hall ; the proceeds of which will go to a Bakewell based charity supporting Rwandan people (www.thegobokarwandatrust.co.uk).

For more information on the day or tickets for the ceilidh ring Jude on 01629 815469 or Di on 01629 812104. You can also visit our website  www.bakewelldayofdance.co.uk