A traditional dance class running from 9pm to 11pm daily, the Ceilidh is a sweaty fun-filled session in the extravagant grand hall of the Royal College of Physicians, featuring a live band and teacher.
A joyful dance class in the grandeur of the Royal College of Physicians
A must for anyone new to Scottish culture, the daily Ceilidh is the perfect opportunity to bounce away the evening in the company of a joyful crowd.
Despite the firm – somewhat old fashioned – insistence that men and women partner up where possible, the ceilidh is a dance practice for all. My session had people from all walks of life, clueless tourists as well as locals with existing expertise, making for a diverse, if slightly chaotic, first experience with this famous Scottish dance.
Throughout the evening, you’ll learn five or so different dances, including a dance featured in Four Weddings and a Funeral and international additions from America and Israel. And though the lack of precise direction is at times frustrating, this Ceilidh is a fantastic introduction to the style.
Be prepared to step on a few toes before eventually picking up the moves through the power of repetition. The footwork is simple and the skipping intuitive, so all you need at Ceilidh is the bounding energy to carry yourself through.
