Ever fancied perfecting a Medieval Carole, a courtly dance fit to impress Henry VIII, or a Georgian country dance?
This September and October, music and dance expert Mike Ruff will be hosting Dancing Through History workshops, taking place at the Museum of Technology. Classes start with Medieval dancing on 16 September, with Tudor dancing to follow on the 23rd.
On 7 October, learn how the Georgians flaunted their charms whilst keeping their powdered wigs in place; on 14 October try a sprightly Victorian polka or a daring waltz (considered ‘vulgar’ due to the closeness required between partners – I say!).
Then, on 21 October, there’s a chance to try out some 20th-century dance styles and recap past routines.
“Dancing is usually left out of the history books and yet it has always been part of people’s lives,” says Mike. “In fact, dancing was a desirable social skill. In literature there are plenty of references to dance – Chaucer, Shakespeare, Hogarth, Jane Austen, Dickens and Hardy to name but a few – so knowing about these dances can add a new dimension to their work.
“The fashionable dances changed through the centuries, but running through the last 500 years has been the common thread of the country dance. These dances are a reflection of social history, the fashions and architecture of their time.”
Each class costs £10. No previous experience or partner required.
Tickets via: www.dennyfarmlandmuseum.org.uk
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