Spring Fling 2010 Information

Ceilidh

We are kicking Spring Fling 2010 with a ceilidh and will be dancing to Real to Reel, who specialise in traditional Northumbrian music on traditional instruments. Real to Reel was formed in 1998 and has gone on to become one of Northumberland's busiest ceilidh bands. The band has played at many venues across the region from stately homes to universities and from castles to St James Park, the home of Newcastle United.

 We knew that nothing but the best would do for Spring Fling 2010, so we are going to be put through our paces by Deb Lees and Graham Donald.

 Deb currently teaches Newcastle and District RSCDS Branch’s Advanced Class as well as a weekly class for beginners.  She is also regularly asked to teach at Day Schools around the UK, and because we’ve enjoyed her teaching at Spring Fling twice before we’ve asked her back.

 We think it’s fantastic that we are welcoming Graham back to the North-East; he used to teach Newcastle Branch’s Advanced Class.  He now teaches at Day and Weekend Schools both at home and abroad, and has recently been the adjudicator at Newcastle Festival. 

 Northumbrian Ranting.This is your chance to try something fun and unique to Newcastle, you’ll be ably guided through this workshop by local ranting experts Deb Lees and Roger Malton!  They will be joined by Robson’s Choice, an outstanding group of Northumbrian Pipers, who regularly play for concerts and other functions.  Both Deb and Graham will teach the Advanced and the Beginners class and will be accompanied by outstanding local pianists Patricia Cass and Gillian Stewart.  Both play for various classes in the North-East

Highland. What better way to enjoy a Highland workshop than going to one taught by Highland dance aficionado David Queen?  David really does know his stuff when it comes to Scottish Dancing; he’s danced, competed, performed, taught and played all over the world. He will be ably joined by Patricia Cass, who regularly plays for a Ladies’ Step class in Newcastle

Ball. Don’t forget your posh frock or bow tie for our Ball on Saturday night.  This will start off with a wine reception before taking to the dance floor accompanied by Ceol na h-Alba.  This young and energetic Scottish Country Dance Band is back after lively performance at Spring Fling 2006 in Newcastle upon Tyne. They have played at events all over the UK, and have recorded music for Sheffield RSCDS Branch

Scottish Dance Challenge. After a hectic weekend, Spring Fling 2010 will draw to a close with a Scottish Dance Challenge.  Participants will compete in teams in a series of games and challenges to test everything you think you know about Scottish Country Dancing. Where applicable you will be dancing to Gillian Stewart.  This will be followed by a well-earned lunch, provided by members of Newcastle and District RSCDS Branch.