A vibrant evening of music and dance celebrating folk classics old and new at The Randolph Centre in Evenwood, in October kicked off a series of ceilidhs across Teesdale.
The family-friendly event was headlined by Newcastle-based folk collective DIY Ceilidh, a firm favourite on the folk music scene in the north east. The band brings a unique celebration wherever they go, with a focus on expression and inclusivity.
The DIY Ceilidh feature a varied repertoire with beloved classics alongside less known European folk standards.
The Evenwood event was the first in a series aimed at providing a welcoming space for participants of all ages to come together and share a night of music and dance.
The next DIY Ceilidh takes place at the Scarth Memorial Hall in Staindrop on Saturday, and promises to be another foot-stomping and toe-tapping success.
The event will also include young people from Music at The Heart of Teesdale’s youth music groups Cream Tees and the Wear’d Aliens to play alongside The DIY Ceilidh.
Lyndsey Middleton, creative communities coordinator at Northern Heartlands, who has worked in partnership with YMCA Teesdale to organise the event, said: “People had a great time, and we are looking forward to the next one at Scarth Hall in Staindrop.
“It will be a chance to enjoy the beautiful music and have a dance. Everyone is welcome, solo or with family and friends, and it does not matter if you are a beginner or experienced ceilidh dancer.”
Saturday’s event is also an open call to any folk music or dance groups in Teesdale to attend and take the opportunity to perform.
If this is something you are interested in, please call 01833 200220 or email lyndsey.middleton@northernheartlands.org.
Tickets cost £5 for adults with U16s free, from Staindrop Post Office or from Eventbrite. Proceeds go to the Scarth Memorial Hall.
The DIY Ceilidh events are part of Pride in Teesdale, a programme of arts events and activities bringing communities together to celebrate LGBTQIA+ culture and diversity.
The full Pride in Teesdale programme can be found at ymcateesdale.org.uk/pride-in-teesdale
