Bakewell’s 17th International Day of Dance
The Bakewell International Day of Dance has gone from strength to strength and is now celebrating its 17th year - on Saturday 29th June 2019. 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 30 groups will be displaying dance styles from around the world at six outdoor venues from 11.00am to 4.30pm. Come and watch the displays, then join in and have a go!
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, Bollywood, Flamenco, Swing, Rock‘n’Roll, dances from Angola and South Africa. We are delighted to welcome back Austras Koks, Latvian dancers 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. For parents with young ones we have Jennie bringing Baby Steps for the first time. So that’s 0 – 5 years – nothing like starting them young. Watch out for the captivating Jose Oliva of Feel It and Dance, who will again be bringing a special show dance to this year's event. Well Heeled Appalachian group will perform an energetic lively style of step dancing and have been hosts of the Day of Dance since it started. If Tango is your thing, then you will not be disappointed with Lucas and Melanie of Tango in the Peaks. They will be running a workshop followed by an outdoor performance.
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 will also be a programme of taster dance workshops running at the Town Hall throughout the day, which will cost £3 for an hour long session. For further information about these and the rest of the day, visit our website address given below.
The whole day will be rounded off in fine style with a ceilidh at Bakewell Town Hall, with music and calling provided by the ever popular Well Dressed Band. The international flavour of the day will continue here with some dances from around the world. Proceeds of the evening 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