2024 : Great Alne Long Weekend : Maybe Fri 19 - Mon 22nd April, 2024
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    • 2018 Fri 27th -Mon 30th April
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  • FRIDAY 2019 / Working Programme
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  • MONDAY 2019 & WORKING Programme
  • 2021
  • NOTES ABOUT : 2020's Long Weekend
  • A Tribute
  • Map.train.bus-walks
  • BRUMMIE CONTRAS : Frid, Sat, Sun evenngs: Quaker Hall Bournville.
    • American Contras, Danced in B'ham on Sundays. 2pm-5.45. Main Venue: Elmdon Heath CC Hall B91 2SF Near M42 J5 Click HERE for Website.
  • Dorridge Day of Dance

Brummie Contra Dances: Autumn Season 2019
NB A small number of "Agreed Dates only" are presently shown. More may follow!
Date of Contra Dance The Caller Musicians Saving £1.50
ENDS at
Midnight on




Saturday 14th September
NB - This is a
CHANGED DATE
Mic Spenceley
Karen Hanna &
Kevin Downham

Online saving ends
12th Sept 2019.




Sunday 3rd
November 2.30pm
at the Cadbury-built
Bournville Quaker Hall NB. NOT AT
Not Elmdon Heath Venue.
2.30pm START DANCING
Refreshments from 2.10pm
Nicola Scott
Brian Mc Minn
& Mick Green
Online saving ends
1st Nov 2019.




Sunday 1st December
At Elmdon Heath Venue.
NB 2pm START DANCING
tbc English Contra Dance Band (Gareth & Linda) Online saving ends
29th Nov 2019.








Sunday 15 Dec 2pm
Xmas Party Fun
At Elmdon Heath Venue.
Kimberley Smith MC - tbc
A Seasonal Dancing
-Afternoon Party.
At Elmdon Heath Venue.
Karen Hanna &
David Pattenden
Online saving ends
13th Dec 2019.












It's Brummie Contra: - 2019's
Final Friday Fling -



Fri 27th Dec 2-5.30pm
at the Cadbury-built
Bournville Quaker Hall.
NB. NOT at Elmdon Heath Venue.
NB Sun 29th Dec alt. possibility.
tbc tbc Online saving ends
25th Dec 2019.
Please complete your main course meal preferences in the table on the booking sheets.
This isn"t “binding”, but PLEASE try to record (& remember) YOUR Booking Form choice.
That makes a helpful shopping guide for us.


In your glass -
Sparkling, non alcoholic grape juice. (A sparkling perry may also be available.)


Entrée -
Fillet of smoked mackerel (with parsley & lemon flavouring),
served cold with cherry tomatoes
& mixed mild salad leaf.
OR a slice of melon.
OR Tomato and basil soup. (v) (More than one of these are available for those wish.)

Main Course -
9 main courses. From these, primarily choose one, and record on the booking form :
Try to note (remember) your choice.
(1 to 5 or A to D) -though there's a little room for flexibility on the evening.


NB Cheeses throughout are vegetarian.

One or two alternative last-minute changes of mind are also likely to be OK !
1) Carve your own portion ( CAUTION - VERY SHARP KNIVES ) from an oven-roasted Chicken:
with
Jacket baked potato: with petits pois & / or with carrot slices
or  with a side salad.

NB FOR ALL MAIN CHOICES, ALTERNATIVE or ADDITIONAL -
- ROAST BUTTERNUT SQUASH, ROAST SWEET POTATO: perhaps ROAST PARSNIP are available. ASK !


OR 2) A whole ( fins removed ) oven-baked mackerel:

OR 3) (Vegetarian: purchased frozen): Linda Mc Cartney Plaits. Cheese, leek & potato filling in a puff pastry plait.

OR 4) (Vegetarian): Roasted  or Jacket Potato (& / or Butternut Squash)
- with wedge from an
oven-baked brie with apple slice and cranberry-topping.

OR 5) (Vegetarian): Roasted  or Jacket Potato (& / or Butternut Squash)
With a choice of medium chilli-spiced Indian vegetarian filling:
eg Dal Makhani. With petits pois & /
 or with carrot slices, or with a side salad.

 ALSO as primary main course option - THESE MAY BE relatively easily ASKED FOR AT THE TIME,
or please pre-order -


OR A) Two smoked plain or parsley/lemon mackerel fillets served hot or cold, with salad & cheese -
-
or with your choice of hot items above.

OR B) Bavarian-Ham (sliced) as your primary main course option - with salad, & / or with Cheese.

OR C) (Vegetarian): Choice of Cheeses as your primary main course option - with salad & / or with coleslaw. 

OR D) (Vegetarian): Filled Jacket  or  roast Potato: with hot baked beans, or with hot or cold choice of Cheeses or with coleslaw,
( 
or with a choice of medium chilli-spiced Indian vegetarian filling: eg Dal Makhani. )
With each, a choice of petits pois or  side salad.


Sweet Course:
Ice cream, (also yoghurts, crème fraiche, cream) tinned fruit.
It is hoped that various fresh fruit eg blueberries & strawberries will be available.
​

Also -
Variety of cheeses and biscuits.    -

After - Tea / or coffee ( cafétière coffee may be available ). .
- £45 for all 4 days. UNTIL GOOD FRIDAY. (Ensure that you have lined-up Accommodation).
Great Alne Long Weekend 2019 was Friday 26 - Monday 29 April (between Easter & Mayday holiday weekends.)

 From the end of February Later Bird Season Tickets were available.
Also less than paying on the door.
NB - still at £39 to EFDSS members !
- Or just come at any time during the event & pay there as a visitor  (see 2019's ​PRICES page).        
If visiting, then you're equally WELCOME to come to any part of this long weekend of folk dance, music & song.
See what the type onto, (or write-on) & post Booking Form was like.
Displays on most devices (not smartphones) below
NB MAYPOLE  will take place - ADDED on Sat afternoon - ONLY If a somewhat wet & cold Saturday is forecast !
SATURDAY PROGRAMME - STARTS 9.15am with - Dances from Brittany - Julian
Then Ring the Hand-chimes - Paul  -OR-  First option of joining part singing group - James H.
Then Her brilliant Dances from S. America with-Elsa -OR- Second option of joining a part singing group - James H. 
Sat after lunch has Drumming with Fredy with the style of his homeland of Chile
Then International Dance selection - Karin -OR- Option of "Joining the Band" - group of learning musicians & some helpers with skills to spare - Paul
Then Indoor Maypole ( ONLY if it's forecast to be wet / cold, )
Then Walk  - Adrian  -OR-  Informal Music  - Karen Walford
Sat after Dinner Ring hand-chimes  - Paul  
After a busy day, enjoy an evening of excellent calling for dancing in a gentle style - Brian Stanton  
BELOW : our LAST event's PRICES  page -
Visits are welcomed: 4 daytimes / 3 eve's: Gt Alne 4 day Long Weekend

Evening Dance visit / Daytime activity visits / prebooking - all will be welcomed Friday to Monday at:
Contact us - here.              Great Alne Long Weekend                                     
     Memorial Hall (2 miles from Alcester) is at B49 6HL (The opposite houses clearly were once the Old Rail Station)
- JUST DROP BY -  on any day / evening : Be welcomed  - whichever day - at ANY time ​!
- You're welcome to pay there at the hall, and stay for ALL or for ANY part of the Long Weekend ​!
 - You may TAKE AWAY with you a copy ( ies ) of the working programme from the hall ​!
​

 -  Best bargain is STILL the Early Bird Season Ticket for it ALL.
Was available only during January & February at £39. Now at £45, except to SIFD members !
(or If you wish to come at £39, why not join Society for International Folk Dance now ! )
This concession is retained because of the grant which SIFD has helpfully made available for Karin & for Elsa !

Click HERE to download in "word" a new Early Bird Form to book by Email. Make a separate BACS bank transfer.
Click HERE to download in "word" a new Early Bird Form to book by completing the form. Post it with a cheque.

If you like ALL the programme, BOOK NOW  -  SEE the form or pdf download on EARLY BIRD page  - 
- Brilliant this early price is - BUT you do not HAVE to book to come for ALL or for ANY part of the Long Weekend ​!
- JUST DROP BY -  on any day / evening : Be welcomed  - whichever day - at ANY time ​!
- You're still welcome to pay there at the hall, and stay for ALL or for ANY part of the Long Weekend ​!


Larger screen views are BELOW (Downloads are to see it on a smartphone) - or to PRINT 
Fri/Sat Programme - as A4 portrait sheet HERE .
- Sun/Mon
Programme - as A4 portrait  sheet HERE .
You'd best await the finalised working programme to get a dependable hardcopy.
(MONOCHROME download available soon if preferred - )

Long Weekend ENTIRE 2019 WORKING PROGRAMME  VIEW IT as on 2 A4 sides below  -     

​       
REDIRECTION -  for ALL of the Most recent PROVISIONAL PROGRAMME - VIEW/download it
- HERE - 
Format : As if on 2 A4 sides and titled "PICK-UP a copy"

​

NB. Provisional indicates that although initial contacts have been made, times / contributors may change!
NB. Provisional indicates that although initial contacts have been made, times / contributors may change!
2019 Great Alne Long Weekend Working Programme
Friday 26th April 1st of 4 Days - Revision Date 12.4.19 SEE www.greatalnefolk.org.uk
v


14.00 Hall facilities open. Chair row in front of Stage:Kitchen stocked:Stage PA setup for evening.
14. 30 Refreshment Break with tea/coffee/biscuits/squash. Meet and greet time.
14.45 Breton & French dances – some in sets - Julian Stanley
16. 00 Refreshment Break.
16.10 International dances from a mix of countries - Karin Bellaart
17. 35 Set up tables/chairs. For ## to dine. Tables laid for dinner in Hall. Stage PA finalised for evening.
18.00 Dinner
19. 00 Clear tables: Put away chairs. NOT at sides of hall. Personal belongings in front of stage please.
19.10 Evening Visitors join in Cajun Dance (or jive) – Meckie Music – Flis tbc
19.45 American Contra Dance. Call: Nicola Scott. Band - Karen Hanna/David Pattenden.
21. 00 Refreshment Break.
21.10 Dancing intermission : A few straightforward, fun dances. For everyone - Karin.
21.40 Continuing Evening American Contra Dance -
23.00 Refreshments to conclude the evening - (including drinking chocolate)
Brummie Contras: Spring Season 2018
Date of Contra Dance - The Caller - Musicians The offer
ENDS at
midnight












FRIDAY 27th April, 8pm
Memorial Hall Great Alne.
Bonus LNE Cajun follows.
Part of Long Weekend -
Dancing & much more !
Mark Elvins Maivish: Jaige & Adam from Canada click HERE
for Friday details
at Great Alne
Sunday 24th June.
COOL Midsummer Contra
Geoff Cubitt Warwick University Folk Soc
Contra Dance Band tbc.
Online saving ends
Fri 22nd June
Sat-eve-special Brummie Contra 10th Nov '18
A Saturday-night
Brummie Choccie Contra
NB. Date is in 2018 at the
Bournville Quaker Hall
The Caller - Musicians Saving £1.50
ENDS at
Midnight on
Saturday 10th November 2018
7.30pm at the Cadbury-built
Quaker Hall, Bournville.
Caller may originate from USA
or/& be based in Edinburgh - tbc.
Contra-Alt-Delete.
Brilliant : Lichfield '15 & Sidmouth '17,
Nicci, Grace, Sam &Oz. Sam & Grace
played excellently to be the Band for
the Very First Brummie Contra with
Caller Bob Morgan, Good Friday in
April of 2014.
Wednesday 7th Nov 2018.
         Saturday 27th April 2019  Here you are at the Saturday webpage.
Presently, the LATEST versions of the provisional programme are - HERE -
ThIs 2019 SATURDAY TIMETABLE, will be updated with the final working programme  LATER.








Provisional Programme pictured below was last updated 5.2.19
 BELOW: SATURDAY'S Provisional PROGRAMME VIEW (computer etc) below 
To DOWNLOAD LATER - THE FINAL WORKING PROGRAMME to see and/or carry on smartphone or print it     
HERE
-                                                                          
You might kindly print some of these onto A4.
Print onto the front, then through the printer again onto the back.
Then cut into two A5 fliers printed front and back.
To distribute in your local area is -
most especially helpful, and appreciated.
 
DETAILS ARE CORRECTED & UPDATED - 20
th March 2019.
DOWNLOAD - HERE -
eg to print. Or to view this on a smartphone;
the 
- LATEST new SUMMARISING FLIERS for -
Great Alne Long Weekend

Book by the end of February for a bargain
"Early Bird"  A "Season Ticket" for April 2019's Long Weekend
- Just £39 for all 4 days. (Ensure that you have lined-up Accommodation).
Great Alne Long Weekend 2019 is Friday 26th - Monday 29th April: between Easter & Mayday holiday weekends.

 From the end of February Later Bird Season Ticket will be available.
Also less than paying on the door.
- Or just come at any time during the event & pay there as a visitor  (see 2019's ​PRICES page).        
If visiting, then you're equally WELCOME to come to any part of this long weekend of folk dance, music & song.
(Apologies that Early Bird availability was postponed because web-writer had no properly functioning laptop since November)
***
​See what the type onto, (or write-on) & post form is like. Displays on most devices (not smartphones) below


​

Available NOW during January & February ONLY at this £39 price  !
Click HERE to download in "word" a new Early Bird Form to book by Email. Make separate BACS bank transfer.
Click HERE to download in "word" a new Early Bird Form to book by completing the form. Post it with a cheque.
 -  Best bargain is the Early Bird Season Ticket for it ALL.
Available NOW during January & February ONLY at this £39 price  !

Click HERE to download in "word" a new Early Bird Form to book by Email. Make a separate BACS bank transfer.
Click HERE to download in "word" a new Early Bird Form to book by completing the form. Post it with a cheque.

If you like the programme, BUY EARLY BIRD NOW  -  SEE the form or pdf download on EARLY BIRD page  - 
- Brilliant this early price is - BUT you do not HAVE to book to come for ALL or for ANY part of the Long Weekend ​!
- JUST DROP BY -  on any day / evening : Be welcomed  - whichever day - at ANY time ​!
- You're still welcome to pay there at the hall, and stay for ALL or for ANY part of the Long Weekend ​!

​

Pre-Mayday Maypole. Our dancing traditionally plaits ribbons for visitors & kids on Sat & Sun.
Please click HERE to download the new Early Bird Booking Form
See 2019's DAILY PROVISIONAL TIMETABLES, with the many varied day / eve activities, click on EACH DAY
 The FRIDAY's  events - a quiet afternoon :  SATURDAY's events : SUNDAY's events :  Quieter MONDAY's events
OR - BEST to see / download 2018's FULL LONG WEEKEND PROGRAMME (2 SIDES OF A4)
THIS coming April's Provisional Timetable REPLACES that of last year, one day at a time.  
See meanwhile TIMETABLES of LAST April with many varied day / evening activities - click on EACH DAY -
2018 FRIDAY's events - a quiet afternoon :  SATURDAY's events :  SUNDAY's events :  Quieter MONDAY's events
OR - BEST see / download the FULL April 2018 LONG WEEKEND PROGRAMME (2 SIDES OF A4)
 -  Best bargain is the Early Bird Season Ticket for it ALL.
Available NOW during January & February ONLY at this £39 price  !
Please click HERE to download new Early Bird Form to book by Email : & make a separate BACS bank transfer.
Please click HERE
 to download new Early Bird Form to book by completing the form, and posting it with a cheque.
^ 2019's Provisional Programme is becoming available above ^
But if you like this, and what went on in 2018, GET EARLY BIRD NOW !  - 
- Brilliant this early price is - BUT you do not HAVE to book to come for ALL or for ANY part of the Long Weekend ​!
- JUST DROP BY -  on any day / evening : Be welcomed  - whichever day - at ANY time ​!
- You're still welcome to pay there at the hall, and stay for ALL or for ANY part of the Long Weekend ​!
This April's SATURDAY Provisional Programme of events. Early panpipes ! Option of joining a part singing group. More kinds of dance including more from Brittany. South American drumming to play with Fredy, & dances from there with Elsa. Ring handbells after dinner. A busy day, so enjoy an evening in Playford style with Brian Stanton.  
See DAILY PROVISIONAL TIMETABLES for THIS COMING April AS EACH DAY BECOMES AVAILABLE
-
 
click on EACH DAY -

This April 2019's FRIDAY Provisional Programme of events. Especially this is a pleasantly quiet afternoon : 
You may choose to follow Breton, and General International dancing with a roast meal (vegetarian option too) :

but be sure to let us know beforehand : 
A spell of leisurely Cajun dance after the meal, then the main Friday evening's dance is a lively American Contra.
See 2019's DAILY PROVISIONAL TIMETABLES, with the many varied day / eve activities, click on EACH DAY
 The FRIDAY's  events - a quiet afternoon :  SATURDAY's events :  SUNDAY's events :  Quieter MONDAY's events
OR - BEST to see / download the FULL LONG WEEKEND PROGRAMME (2 SIDES OF A4)
Eve: An Evening mainly of modern Dances written following the Playford format. Traditional dances in the same idiom : with Brian Stanton's precise and clear calling :  
If confirmed, with the superb music of Benjamin & Joshua Roach -
​
This will be your fairly gentle Evening Social Dance, after a busy dancing day  -
TICKET PRICES 2019
"On the Door" ticket prices
Ticket type Adult Student/unwaged
Full weekend ticket £50 £34
Friday afternoon and evening £15 £10
Any evening dance £8:Fri,Sat
£7:Sunday
£5
Saturday and Sunday full daytime
Under 16's, FREE if with a paying, supervisory adult
Price is reduced for much shorter visits –
Please ask at ticket desk on arrival
£15 £10
16 to 18's YOU can come FREE with a paying, participating adult !
Do ASK a friend, parent, aunt or cousin who enjoys this, if they will bring YOU?
Monday daytime (9.30am – 3.30pm)
We’d appreciate some help packing up at 3.30pm!
£8 £5
SAVE YOURSELF MONEY - Prepay for a "season ticket" -
"Early Bird" gives greatest saving! - BOOK an
"Early Bird" ticket - for ALL that happens: Friday to Monday.
"Early Bird" by 28th February 2019 £39 £26
"Later Bird" by Good Friday, 19th Apr 2019 £45 £30
TICKET PRICES 2019
"On the Door" ticket prices
Ticket type Adult Student/unwaged
Full weekend ticket £50 £34
Friday afternoon and evening £15 £10
Any evening dance £8:Fri,Sat
£7:Sunday
£5
Saturday and Sunday full daytime
Under 16's, FREE if with a paying, supervisory adult
Price is reduced for much shorter visits –
Please ask at ticket desk on arrival
£15 £10
16 to 18's YOU can come FREE with a paying, participating adult !
Do ASK a friend, parent, aunt or cousin who enjoys this, if they will bring YOU?
Monday daytime (9.30am – 3.30pm)
We’d appreciate some help packing up at 3.30pm!
£8 £5
"Early Bird" ticket : for ALL from FRIDAY to MONDAY
Book by 28th February 2019 £39 £26
Book by Good Friday, 19th April 2019 £45 £30
Please click here to download the Early Bird Booking Form

It
's wise to arrange your accommodation as soon as you can.

We wish to turn away no-one wishing to journey to be at Gt Alne because they've found nowhere to stay.
Please telephone Paul on 0121 689 1802
should you be in such a situation.
(If on answerphone, please leave your name and return contact details.)

**
NB: GREAT for under 16's, FREE with a paying, supervisory adult. 16 to 18's also free when with a paying, participating adult.
Picture . . . Nicola Scott will call for the Contra Dance . . .
It will be pleasant to continue making use of Friday afternoon, as we first did in our 30th Anniversary event -
Julian Stanley offers an opportunity of Breton Sets to start the dance workshops.

Karin's popular International Workshop follows.
A sit-down roast meal is from 6pm.
To join in, please try to let us know beforehand. 

Meckie, with Flis's music enables all comers to try out some moves of Cajun dance.  
Nicola Scott  - here: your caller on Friday eve : 
​Again, expect a brilliant American Contra.

click HERE to see the "Cole Valley Ceilidh Band" play on Friday eve in 2014, for that years' contra dance.
 BELOW - FRIDAY of  2019's  Provisional PROGRAMME
​
-
[ or Download: to view on smartphone, print etc click HERE ] 
With laptop/desktop etc - click on "arrows expanding a square" icon: bottom RIGHT (as you scroll down).
This presents a clear, LARGE display - But beware unexpected adverts - only in the
 .....FULL SCREEN.
 
PictureMagic Meg of Alcester Contras
And a lovely pace of contra music to lift our dancing thanks to
- Magic Meg's Contra-Mates.

(The hall we have wished and tried to hire from noon, to assist in setting-up.

This has not been possible since it now has a regular Friday morning booking.) -

A mild weather prospect though, should allow erection of two of our gazebos at 1pm. (NB If it's not breezy!)

We can use the hall facilities from 1pm.
We greet traditionally with a cup of tea from circa 1.15pm -

Should weather be very poor, a small number only are likely to wish to walk, and only a short walk will be available.
***

We have added a handbell ringing opportunity on the Friday afternoon. 
UPDATED 27/4 BELOW - FRIDAY's 2017 Working PROGRAMME
​
-
[ or Download: to view on smartphone, print etc click HERE ] 
With laptop/desktop etc - click on "arrows expanding a square" icon: bottom RIGHT (as you scroll down).
This presents a clear, LARGE display - But beware unexpected adverts - only in the
 .....FULL SCREEN.
 
Plan to be at Great Alne Hall at 12 noon to start with the MIDDAY WALK to Haselor Church?
​
 - Adrian needs to know
! 
Wish to leave with him at 12.15 ?  Ring by 8pm previous eve - (check weather forecast first)  Adrian's mobile number ...............
[Should you leave a car, please park well clear of the hall buildings to the right: allowing space for caravans / motorhomes.]  

2018 brought us unusually poor weather. Almost continuous activities went on in the Hall.
That was convivial, and as always a wide variety of different dancing was on offer.  
See DAILY TIMETABLES of LAST April with the many varied day / evening activities - click on EACH DAY -
2018 FRIDAY's events - a quiet afternoon :  SATURDAY's events :  SUNDAY's events :  Quieter MONDAY's events
OR - BEST see / download the FULL April 2018 LONG WEEKEND PROGRAMME (2 SIDES OF A4)
At Great Alne, sample a wide range of different kinds of dancing:
Some International Dancing 
with Karin will take place EVERY day

The INDOOR pic [in changing title pics above] was of Nel's 2009 visit.
Best if you can, meet Nel on the quieter Friday afternoon, or Monday.
Three Evenings of Social Dancing -
On Fri evening we'll mainly dance in American Contra style.
More general social dancing is on Sat & Sun evenings.

BOOK / or just COME & ENJOY these events. 
VISITORS are welcomed at anytime -
You receive more individual attention Fri afternoon & especially the quieter Monday.
Should it be wet out, we dance Morris & around the Maypole INDOORS.
It's convivial, and we always provide a variety of different dancing.  
If you want a meal on Friday, and haven't let us know - be there before 6pm and say so (there) asap!
Our
Catering lets you enjoy all this without need to prepare sandwiches, cook at home, or seek food.
The extended weekend explores varied traditional folk activities & dance from around the world.
Welcome to the white and raftered hall in this beautiful English Warwickshire village.
We're ALL learners at some activity:
Many are experienced in some aspect of dance/music: We have skills to share.
Join and participate with us in the dancing, music & song.
Young people up to 16yrs carry on the future in folk traditions. At Great Alne, you may take part with an accompanying adult at NO extra cost
 - JUST DROP BY -  on any day / evening : Be welcomed  - whichever day - at ANY time ​!
- Stay for ALL or for ANY part of the Long Weekend ​!
With much poor weather during 2018's Long Weekend, many joined the almost continuous activities in the Hall.
To see
TIMETABLES OF LAST APRIL with the many varied day / evening activities - click on EACH DAY -
 The FRIDAY's events - a quiet afternoon :  SATURDAY's events :  SUNDAY's events :  Quieter MONDAY's events
OR - BEST to see / download the FULL April 2018 LONG WEEKEND PROGRAMME (2 SIDES OF A4)

Book by the end of January 2019 for a bargain
"Early Bird" Season Ticket
- likely again just £39 for all 4 days. (Ensure that you have lined-up Accommodation).

Please click here for the Early Bird Booking Form


 From the end of January Later Bird Season Ticket will be available.
Also less than paying on the door.

- Or just come during the event & pay there as a visitor  (see Prices page).        
If visiting, then you're equally WELCOME to come to any part of this long weekend of folk dance, music & song.

​
***
To see the TIMETABLES OF LAST APRIL with many varied day / evening activities - click on EACH DAY -
FRIDAY of 2016 events :  SATURDAY of 2016 events :  SUNDAY 2016 events :  The quieter MONDAY 2016 events
More time on this last occasion was spent taking part in excellent workshops in the Hall whilst it was cold outside.
See us continue to offer different dancing variety of quality.


​
Visit with kids: Do arrive around the middle of the day on Saturday / Sunday. Try ringing the handbells.
Watch & take part in Border Morris. This is fun for all. VISIT for this demonstrative Morris mischief.
It's Richard from Elephant up a pole. Enjoy watching them - then join in as well.
Full regalia for this lively Coventry side comprise ragged tailcoats and blacked-up faces.
Visitors - especially with interested young children - find delight taking part in this.
Watch your kids enjoying it. Then try more easy dancing around the Maypole -
YOU have a try ! And you may eat‐out with us too; share our varied menu !
Brummie Contras: Remaining in 2017
DATE of Contra Dance - The Caller - Musicians Saving £1.50
ENDS at
Midnight on
Sunday 26th November Bob Morgan -
Brummie Contra's Very First Caller.
Nozzy ( Nicci & Oz ) 24th Nov
Sunday 17 Dec, 2pm. Xmas Party Fun Kimberley Smith MC -
An Ace Afternoon Party.
15th Dec
FRIDAY 29th December at 2pm
Brummie C's Final Friday Contra Fling of 2017,
At the Present Elmdon Heath main Venue.
Bill Kinsman Stray Chords ( Philip,
Joyce; Benjamin & Joshua )
27th Dec
*********************************************************************************************** OFFER about what ? SAVE £1.50 on the door price! So it's £9 on the door (Student £5)
Plan to be at the next dance? Sign up at the previous dance - or email to say so before deadline. Please inform afresh, for each dance.

If several of you plan to come next time, download form at HERE, add names etc & attach to your email.

Deadline is shown in this cyan colour opposite the dance date in yellow - usually by the Friday midnight before a Sun afternoon.
**************************************************************************************************************
To pre-book - was a bargain - but you may alternatively visit / pay "on the day" !

​

Much will happen at B49 6HL on these: 4 days & 3 evenings:
Dancing and a lot more during Spring in Shakespeare's Countryside -

- in this lovely English Warwickshire Village's Memorial Hall. -
Nel van der Laan visited in 2017 (& 2015): again a great teacher from the Netherlands.
Contact Paul for easy, free access to videos of Nel's dances being done.

(As still for 2015 dances) Ask also, to obtain a CD of Nel's dance tunes.
2. AirBnB
If you're unfamiliar with this either room, or bed & breakfast system offered by a host person or family, click HERE
An early booking gives you the best variety of choices.
Later, more of your "clicks" on the prices show their availability has become taken for your requested dates.
Note: DISTANCES to travel from/to other Travelodge accommodation are given FROM ALCESTER.

(A Sunday overnight room is likely to cost about £26 if booked more than 6 months ahead.)

in Alcester
The fast, yet relatively quiet A46 dual carriageway South from Alcester means that accommodation just North of the delightful historic town of Evesham may be less than 20 mins drive from Great Alne.
Some is offered there through Airbnb at very reasonable cost.
Friday 27th at £26, Sat 28th at £43 and Sun 29th at £29.
3. Holiday Cottages/apartments
Self catering at these is necessary only for breakfasts, since meals etc are available at the Memorial Hall
An early booking gives you the best variety of choices.
The fast, yet relatively quiet A46 dual carriageway South from Alcester means that accommodation just North of the delightful historic town of Evesham may be less than 20 mins drive from Great Alne.
eg 20 mins from Great Alne - 
New Inn Lane Holiday Cottages, Pitchill. accommodate 2. All facilities 2018 - 3nights £215.
At Great Alne Long Weekend we very much wish to pass joy of folk activities to families & young people.
Today, there are obstacles for a broader education of school age young people outside a classroom in school-time.
We hope this concession will allow families with young people to attend more economically.
But ESPECIALLY -

Grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins. You who once used to enjoy your folk dancing -
Take this opportunity to share your joy & bring young members of your wider family.
  g
- - set behind its own pleasant green
.
Opposite its drive-in (on Henley Road leading to Henley in Arden) is the Old Station (now a House: no rail line).

NEW - in 2018 - Season tickets for Sat & Sunday ONLY -
- Primarily for Parents (or Grandparents) with u/18's. -

Hey late-teen lapsed dancers - encourage those older dancing folkies to come - to bring YOU and share the fun & exercise -
And: A chance all to try playing Pan Pipes !
 Bargain "Early Bird" Season Ticket
- just £45 for all 4 days. (See all on Prices page).
Download the 2017 Form HERE 
- you wish to be an "Early Bird": get a bargain Season Ticket ? Best go for it NOW !
but  Thursday 13th April is its deadline.

From Good Friday (for a fortnight) Later Bird Season Ticket is available.
Also less than paying on the door.
Complete the form: adding your food preferences to help our catering please.
Pay in ONE step by BACS Bank transfer (Fast Payment Service):
 or print & fill in the form, and post it with a cheque. 

- Or just come during the event & pay there as a visitor  (see Prices page).        
If visiting, then you're equally WELCOME to come to any part of this long weekend of folk dance, music & song.
***
SATURDAY 6/5/17 PROGRAMME view on 2 pages below / smartphone download HERE.                                  Here's the Saturday page.
FRIDAY 5/5/17 PROGRAMME view below / smartphone download HERE                   Here's the Friday page.
FULL SCREEN is the icon with four arrows - far right  [Unexpected advertising offers appear in full screen]
VIEW ABOVE - FRIDAY's PROGRAMME - or Download direct: to print click HERE
Plan to be at Great Alne Hall at 12 noon for the midday walk to Haselor Church?  - Adrian needs to know ! 
Wish to leave with him at 12.15 ?  Ring by 8pm previous eve - (check weather forecast first)  Adrian - 07827 278 821
[Should you leave a car, please park well clear of the hall buildings to the right: allowing space for caravans / motorhomes.]  


Download the 2017 Form HERE
but  Friday 29th April is deadline for Later Bird Season Ticket to be available.
Also less than paying on the door.
​
Complete the form: adding your food preferences to help our catering please.
Pay in ONE step by BACS Bank transfer (Fast Payment Service):
 or print & fill in the form, and post it with a cheque. 

- Or just come during the event & pay there as a visitor  (see PRICES 2017 page).        
If visiting, then you're equally WELCOME to come to any part of this long weekend of folk dance, music & song.
***
Plan to be at Great Alne Hall at 12 noon for the midday walk to Haselor Church?  - Adrian needs to know ! 
Wish to leave with him at 12.15 ? Ring by 8pm previous eve - (check weather forecast first)  Adrian - 07827 278 821
[Should you leave a car, please park well clear of the hall buildings to the right: allowing space for caravans / motorhomes.]  

- Nel's dances of 2015 in the Hall. -
These are free for you to keep and view - contact Paul on 0121 689 1802.

NOW AVAILABLE: book your best bargain of Early Bird for 2017.
- Or drop by in May
- Be welcomed - whichever day - at ANY time !


 ​Even if you can come only Friday to Sunday, do still check the Bargain - 
"Early Bird" Season Ticket go to EARLY BIRD - £45 for all 4 days for single adult.
But this concession may be especially helpful for a family, or a student booking.
On 
 
Good Friday - the price has gone up !
BOOK SOON !  Click here for booking form
You're welcome to drop in & pay for workshops, or for any evening. But why not :
BOOK NOW: an Early Bird Season Ticket -
By our new & easy method.
THIS way it's "green" and PAPER FREE: - so preferably
Choose how you arrange a BANK TRANSFER - FPS (or Faster Payment Service)
to pay your booking - (It used to be termed BACS)
(If you really prefer to, then you may print: or write on & post our completed form with a cheque payable to Great Alne Folk Festival.)
SO CHEQUE PAYMENT STILL IS -  (AND WILL REMAIN) -  A CHOICE AVAILABLE TO YOU!


How our FPS or Bank Transfer payment can be made -
YOU FINISH the process by emailing the filled-in form to Karen, after making YOUR own FPS transfer into the festival account. HOW -
1) You can most simply do the transfer by phoning your Bank / Building Society from home.
2) If YOU find it more convenient, just visit your bank branch, asking to use their FPS facility.
3) Make the transfer by Internet Banking, if this is your normal preference.

With either of the first two choices - NONE OF YOUR PERSONAL DETAILS ARE ON-LINE !
So:
1) Download and "open" this form which you need.
2) Choose your method to FPS transfer into the sort code and account number of the Festival's account -
Quote your surname as a reference code to go along with the payment.
3) Email the completed form to Karen at her given email address.
4) You will  [normally 2-10 days afterwards ] get back an emailed individual receipt as acknowledgement from us.

This way, you post nothing to us, and have no need to write a cheque.
You send to us no personal bank details whatsoever !
This payment choice is relatively quick, and can be totally free of paper.
We are most appreciative of Karen W's kind administration of these emails: thus making FPS payments possible on this website.
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 ​Even if you can come only Friday to Sunday, do still check the Bargain - 
"Early Bird" Season Ticket go to EARLY BIRD - £45 for all 4 days for single adult.
But this concession may be especially helpful for a family, or a student booking.
On 
 
Good Friday - the price has gone up !
BOOK SOON !  Click here for booking form