Some of the members of the Los Alamos Scottish Country Dancers. Courtesy photo
Some of the members of the Los Alamos Scottish Country Dancers. Courtesy photo
COMMUNITY News:
“Come to the Ceilidh!” (pronounced KAY-lee) from 3-5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 22 at Fuller Lodge, Los Alamos.
You may ask, “Well, what is a Ceilidh?” followed closely by “Why should I come to the Ceilidh”?
Ceilidhs are a lot of fun! A Ceilidh is a traditional Scottish/Irish/Celtic social event or party that typically features family-friendly live music performances, dancing, storytelling, jokes, “sing-alongs” – you name it. Audience participation is key, and adds to the spontaneity. The atmosphere is welcoming to people of all ages and cultures. You don’t need to be Scottish or Irish!
Free snacks will also provided. And you can think of it as an “Open House” style event, at which you can come and go as you please; you do not have to arrive at the start and stay until the end, but you may wish to do so.
Ceilidhs can be connected with special events such as weddings, birthdays, community events, or just for fun. This one is being presented by the Los Alamos Scottish Country Dancers (LASCD), a county-sponsored dance class, which welcomes new members.
LASCD meets for instructional classes from 7:30-10 p.m., Monday nights at Fuller Lodge, and has been doing so for decades. On Mondays that are county holidays, contact the number at the end of this article for more information. This is an adult class, for ages 18 – infinity.
The highlight of the Ceilidh is the dancing. There will be dance performances as well as opportunities for the audience, regardless of whether you have never danced before or are a very experienced dancer, everyone can join in dances that are simple to do, do not require a high level of fitness, and are lots of fun to dance.
Dances are taught “on the spot” and accompanied by lively Celtic music on a variety of instruments such as fiddle, piano, accordion, flute, guitar, drums, etc. It’s more about having fun and connecting with others than perfection.
Dances may be organized in straight lines or circles, squares, or other geometric figures. Dancers typically mingle around the dance throughout, momentarily meeting others as they complete the course of the dance. It’s a chance for people to socialize and enjoy themselves through music and dance!
And if you prefer to watch rather than dance, that’s OK too.
So, please “Come to the Ceilidh” and bring your family and friends – or come solo! It’s a great way to meet people, be entertained, get some exercise, learn about Celtic culture, and enjoy the party.
Suggested donation: $5/person or $10/family
For more information, call or text Eileen at 505.695.5507.