Tea Ceilidh

On a lovely, sunny autumn afternoon in a church hall in Marchmont, Edinburgh, dancers move gracefully to the strains of the old Strathspey “The Burning of the Pipers Hut”. They are reviving the “Oxton Reel” danced for many years in the village of Oxton and across the Borders. They are enjoying a fine new idea!!! ……Scottish social dancing in the Afternoon!Every Thursday, 2-3:45pmTea Dances were a craze in the 1930’s lasting well into the 1950’s in ballrooms across the country and were also very popular in France and the USA.Stan Reeves, the band leader, thought it would be grand to revive the idea, but focus on Scottish ceilidh
dances. Once summer is over the days can be enlivened by a weekly gathering for great music, dancing, blethers in good company, and some tea and cake! The live music on button accordion, fiddle, guitar and other occasional drop in musicians is delivered by folk with years of experience playing in dance bands , and it is also a convivial time for them. The dances are called and led, and are a mixture of group and couple dances, with some unusual ones to keep you on your toes!Marchmont St.Giles have built a modern extension which houses the Butterflies cafe where Nikki will provide fresh meals, hot tea and cake. Just grab a cup and dance away.Folk come singly, in couples or groups of pals and are assured of a friendly welcome. This is a great way to keep fit, enjoy good company and explore our heritage. See you Thursday 17th September and all Thursday afternoons (except Oct 8th and 15th).Great live music from Stan Reeves + Friends, Butterflies Cafe tea/ coffee and cake!!! Buses 9, 24 and 5 nearby.