A DELIGHTED group of dancers attended their first circle dance gathering at Gresford on Thursday, 27 February.

The concept was set into motion earlier this year, in an attempt to learn and teach ancient circle dancing traditions.

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Novice dancers travelled from Newcastle, Bendolba and Vacy.

“Emotive dances ranged from the haunting music of Timor Leste, where the well known song ‘Mai Fali E’ has mothers summon their children at sunset and beckon home those who have left East Timor, to the Native American chant ‘Ly-O-Lay-Ale-Loya’ conveying the stories, legends and plight of the Native Americans,” said group coordinator Pip Woods.

“This latter piece of music combines sampled chants of the Navajo, Pueblo and Sioux tribes and Sami people yoik, with synthesizer backings, accompanied by a combination of traditional drumming and electronic dance-beats. “Dancing this crenellation pattern dance was a very spiritual and uplifting experience made more powerful by the togetherness and energy of the dancers in our circle.

“Laughter and delight were evoked by the Romanian children’s nutcracker stamping dance, where the challenge to our brains proved too much at times.”

Pip said there are “no wrong steps” in circle dancing, only “variations”.

The group’s youngest dancer, Freyja, had a ball learning the moves.

“I love this dancing and it’s very good for me,” she said.

Older dancers agreed that learning the steps was a good workout for their brains.

The next event is set to take place in Gresford on Thursday, 27 March at 4.30pm.

“At this stage we meet on the fourth Thursday of each month,” Pip said.

Entry is by donation.

Due to growing interest a larger venue is being planned for the next session.

For enquiries or to book in, phone Pip on 0493 388 889.