The Elms Hotel Event Summary, November '06

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Dances Presented

The Event

A weekend of English Country Dance to suit all tastes, with dances from the period c1650 to the present day including New England Contras and Squares.
The series is organised and led by John & Hilary Turner. It is aimed at enthusiasts who enjoy their dancing and aspire to improve their skills, knowledge and understanding of English Country Dance, but not at the expense of courtesy and cordiality.

On this occasion the calling was shared between John and our 'Guest' Caller Geoff Cubitt with music provided by Rod & Frances Stradling & Howard Mitchell of Stradivarious.

John, a Yorkshireman, calls dances in a variety of styles from 'Playford' to 'New England' Contras & Running Set. He has called at several major UK festivals, and at dance camps in the USA in recent years. John's 'Calling CV'.

Hilary, originally from the North-East, is Booking Secretary and Hostess.

The weekend commenced with dinner on the Friday evening and ended with a farewell dance on the Sunday afternoon. There was a mixture of dances & workshops, and some free time to explore Morecambe, Lancaster & the beautiful environs.

Geoff Cubitt

Geoff started calling at Loughborough F.D.Club nearly 20 years ago and is still based in the area. Since then he has called on a regular basis both locally and nationally. Geoff believes that dancing should be fun for all participants both on the dance floor and on the stage.
For festivals and club dances he specialises in American Squares and Contras.
Festivals that Geoff has appeared at include Whitby, Sidmouth, Broadstairs, Chippenham, Lichfield, Casterton, Eastbourne, Southam, Gainsborough & Belper..

Rod & Frances Stradling & Howard Mitchell.

Rod, Frances and Howard (Mitch) met at university in London where they started a band called 'North & South'. They played regularly for the University Folk Dance Society and eventually for Folk Dances, Barn Dances, Square Dances and Ceilidhs in the London area and at Festivals.
In 1976 career moves forced the band to split up for several years.
Today Rod and Frances live in Lichfield and Mitch in Derby and so the musical acquaintance blossomed again and Stradivarious was formed. Mitch and Rod play bass/accordion or keyboards/melodeon depending on the requirements of the event. They have appeared at a number of major festivals including Eastbourne, Chippenham, Lichfield, and Sidmouth.
More information about Stradivarious can be found at www.stradivarious.co.uk.

Weekend Programme

THE VENUE

THE ELMS HOTEL, an AA / RAC 3 Star hotel nestles in the village of Bare, amidst the panoramic background of Morecambe Bay. The restaurant has an excellent reputation for fine cuisine with both locals and visitors. All bedrooms are ensuite, and are available in Double, Twin (or shared) and Single rooms.
The hotel dates back to the 1890's and offers a touch of Victorian elegance combined with luxurious decor and the latest modern comforts. Access by Public Transport is very easy. There is a frequent bus service from Lancaster & Morecambe and Bare Lane Railway Station is less than 250 yds away.
Try their Website: The Elms Hotel