Bakewell’s 14th International Day of Dance

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 Saturday 25th June up to 30 groups will be displaying dance styles from around the world at 8 outdoor venues from 11.00am to 4.30pm.

Travel the world with dances from Eastern Europe, Africa, Argentina, Ireland, India, Spain, Egypt and the Appalachian Mountains. Enjoy a range of traditional folk and upbeat contemporary dance. There are performers of all ages, from Biggin Primary Children and Highfield students, to the mature ladies of Growing Old (Dis)gracefully.  There is Bollywood and Swing, Line Dancing and Pole Dancing and dances from Broadway musicals, complete with feather boas, canes and hats. Dance meets keep fit with the energetic Zumba, led by the inspirational Jose Oliva.  Many of the old favourites will be returning, including La Tierra Flamenco, The Bellydance Flames and the energetic and colourful Boggarts Breakfast and Black Pig Morris dancers who never fail to bring a smile to everyone’s faces.  

Groups new to Bakewell this year include Lizzie Dripping, with their own brand of step, tap and traditional country dancing, and The Rhubarb Tarts who dance a style of Morris called Molly. We also welcome Valerija Cernigova who will be introducing her Latvian Folk Dancers.

Bakewell Day of Dance is very much a community enterprise 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. This year you can learn the basics of Argentinian tango, Salsa and Shag, a form of American Swing, originating in the deep south in the twenties and thirties, which is enjoying a revival, particularly across Europe.

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

 

Back to news