In a fantastic tribute to the spirit of Robbie Burns, this Saturday, the Fiddlejam Funtime Fiddlers will play at the Big Yellow Merville Hall. Along with the bagpipes, the fiddle is the musical instrument of choice for strapping, bare legged, kilted Scots and the local Fiddlejam Fiddlers who know how to shake the thistles and spurtles to get the dancers onto the floor.
Celtic Caller June Cannon will guide the dancers with her clear and clever instructions. Nobody gets left behind and everyone will have a good time. Guaranteed.
Doors open at 7 p.m., with a complimentary Contra Dance workshop right before the dance to loosen you up and to prepare you for the spins and lively steps of the Virginia Reel and the Gay Gordon.
Dancing begins at 7:30 and families and single dancers are welcome. Singles can pair up with anyone during the Contras – sets last about 15 to 20 minutes. Old time waltzes and reels; jigs and swing; schottisches and foxtrots will all be played. There is a dance for everyone at this Highland Hoedown.
In a toast of the poetry of Robbie Burns and the new tradition of Scottish Contra Dances, there will be healthy helpings of ‘haggis’ to titillate the tastebuds, along with other treats, from the contra canteen. Kilts are great for dancing in, wear your colours with flare.
So on Saturday, steer your Shetland Pony in the direction of the Big Yellow Merville Dance Hall, on the Old Island Highway. Cost is $10/adults, $5/youth and $22 for a family. For more information, call 250-339-4249. Slainte!