| Welcome to |
| The Centrepiece Sessions |
| “Stepping into 2024” |
| Saturday 27th January 2024@ 19:30 UK TIME |
Dear Dancers,
As I write these words, I imagine each of you wrapped in the warmth of winter blankets, sipping on your favourite hot beverages, and relishing the serenity that winter brings. The chilly Scottish weather has embraced us in its frosty arms, and here I find myself, nestled in the upper foyer of the Universal Hall, surrounded by the enchanting winter decorations. A special shout out to Sue Clutterbuck for infusing the hall with local charm—her efforts have truly made it a magical space.
As we tiptoe our way to the year-end, it’s time to reminisce about the incredible dance journey we’ve shared. From the whimsical “What’s Your Vision” (I hope your vision has come alive?) at the start of 2023 to dancing in Brazil at Encontro Brazilia and hitting the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2023, its been a year filled with dance, joy, and growth.
Freshly back from Germany last week after a magical training weekend with Friedel and Saskia Kloke, I’m still riding the high of dancing with an amazing group this year. I am enjoying this training and hope to write a further blog on my website soon about this experience. I will be uploading a video of us dancing with love from Friedel where we are dancing her dance Sternenkranz, which is a lovely dance. We also danced this dance at the winter gathering in community, a slight variation taught by Maria Laura. Live music added an extra layer of magic with Rory O Connell and Barbara Swetina. The winter gathering video will be available soon as well, on Peter Vallance’s YouTube, below is a lovely picture by Aurora Images.
The training sessions with Friedel this year have been nothing short of trans-formative, and I’m looking forward to carrying on the training next year – One more year to go and My GoFundMe information is below if you wish to help me continue training. It would be very much appreciated.
Last Saturday night in Forres, Scotland, I had a blast dancing with local dancers at “Forres House.” Huge thanks to Jane Johnston, a Margaret Morris movement teacher, for co-teaching. It was so nice to be invited by Lorna Chriswell, the warmth and enthusiasm of the 16/20 dancers who joined us, some in a group photo below, made it a truly memorable event. It was my first time doing seated in-person dances; we included a few for those who wanted to move but needed to be seated. I particularly enjoyed the energy in the room, proving dancing is indeed for all! I hope to do a regular class in Forres in the new year; watch my events page for this information. Community gatherings are so important to get people moving and socializing together.
Looking into 2024, “The Centrepiece” is shaping up to be a nice traditional themed session. I am thrilled to have some fantastic presenters joining us, with a few surprises in store (stay tuned next week as they appear on our poster). Mark your calendars for January 27th which is when the next Centrepiece graces our Zoom room! And locally, the Findhorn Sacred Dance session on December 16th is the perfect wrap-up for the year; join myself and Barbara Swetina, who will bring a few dances for us.
Reflecting on this year, I’m grateful for the talent and creativity each dancer and presenter brings to our community. Like those double rainbows I spotted this week, your uniqueness adds vibrancy to our shared dance experience.
Thanks to each one of you for making this year truly magical. Let’s keep the dance going and create even more memories in 2024, whether it’s online or in person.
Wishing you a cozy and joyful conclusion to the winter season.
Blessings
Brant
| PS : I am trying to continue my dance training with Friedel Kloke and any financial help on my GoFundMe is greatly appreciated. PS : Below Is the edited November CP session video – With love |
Brant Bambery 