ABOUT VECDS

The Victoria English Country Dancers have been meeting  to dance to the live music of their own house band every Thursday evening (since the arrival of the 21st Century in 2000).

What began with an inspired caller, a few dancers, a handful of musicians, and a purpose-built dance hall, transformed in short order into a viable and welcoming community. In 2019 we reluctantly concluded that we’d outgrown our small hall—and after much searching and a bit of trial and error— we settled on the hall at St Matthias (centrally located, with a wood floor, a stage with a piano, easy access, and plenty of parking).

Things to note: Our dances are fragrance-free and you can expect to find (and to follow) good dance etiquette. We ask that you please stay home if you’re experiencing any symptoms that may have health consequences for others.

New Dancers are always welcome: Come and dance with us! You don’t need to bring a partner, dances are taught on-the-spot, and the figures are prompted throughout. Depending on your comfort level, you can jump right in or keep your eyes open for our occasional Open House/Introductory Session. You can also contact us if you have some dance experience, are feeling rusty, and would like to join a “fundamentals” session.

What else? We host an annual weekend of workshops every year (Hands Across the Water), a Ball every other year (The Victoria Ball),  and any number of pop-up local occasions along the way. 

OUR HOUSE BAND

The Dancehall Players (and Friends) have been playing for us since the beginning of time. We’re proud to let you know that they’ve produced six albums. This ensemble of six musicians and composers specializes in English Country Dance music—compositions that go back to the 16th century and continue to be composed today. You’ll hear piano, violin, flute, recorder, guitar, banjo, mandolin, cello and percussion, depending on the occasion. Have a listen! 

Find us on Facebook, and don’t forget you can also dance your heart out on Saturday nights through the year with Victoria Contra Dance