Join Jan for a jig

Jan Newgreen gets in the mood for the Scottish country dancing afternoon she is helping organise in Williamstown on May 4. (Damjan Janevski) 469848_02

Scottish country dancing comes to Hobsons Bay on Sunday, May 4, with an event at the Dennis Reserve Centre in Williamstown.

Jointly hosted by the Werribee Scottish Country Dance Group and the Williamstown CWA, the afternoon event is aimed at both seasoned Scottish dancers and those trying it for the first time.

Event organiser Jan Newgreen said Scottish country dancing is an easy style of dancing to get the hang of.

“Scottish country dances are danced in sets of six or eight people and are categorised as reels, jigs and strathspeys according to the type of music to which they are danced,” Ms Newgreen explained.

“Scottish country dancing is a social form of dancing enjoyed by beginners right through all levels to experienced dancers who perform intricate elements and dance formations.”

The dancing will take place to the beat of live Scottish folk music and will be followed by afternoon tea.

And while it’s a Scottish cultural tradition, no kilt or bagpipes will be required.

Instead attendees are asked to just wear comfortable clothes that are easy to move and be prepared to have a good time.

The May 4 Scottish country dancing event begins at 1pm and is free of charge.

The Williamstown CWA meets on the third Wednesday of every month from 7 to 9pm at the Dennis Reserve Centre on the corner of Ferguson Street and Melbourne Road.