FARE
Added on 11 August 2023
FARE - Summer Ceilidh on 9 and 11 August
A new experience for the Branch this summer - we were asked to support a summer programme organised by FARE Scotland. This is a voluntary organisation which works in disadvantaged communities in Central Scotland running activities and providing support all year round. The one we were asked to help with runs annually during the school summer holidays for primary age children.
This year’s theme was Scotland and Highland Games and the organisers wanted to finish the programme with a celebratory ceilidh. A ceilidh band (Gary Blair) had been booked but more experienced dancers were needed to encourage/help/partner the youngsters through the dances. This is where RSCDS Glasgow Branch came in. A group of willing volunteers turned up at Oakwood Primary School, Easterhouse on Wednesday 9th August and St Rose of Lima Primary School, Craigend on Friday 11th August to be met by enthusiastic children and FARE Scotland staff ready for a celebration.
The programmes included a selection from the Canadian Barn Dance, St Bernard’s Waltz, Militar
y 2-step, Circassian Circle, Virginia Reel and Flying Scotsman – simplified to suit the abilities of the children attending and to paraphrase a well-known comedian – we did the steps but not necessarily in the right order! This experience definitely took us out of our comfort zone but it was good to support such a worthwhile cause. After some initial reticence most of the children participated well and seemed to have fun. My grateful thanks to the 16 branch members who participated over the 2 days.
Anne Murray