Dunfermline's Dance Weekend on Mull

This year, from 18th to 20th April 2025, Dunfermline Branch hosted its first Dance Weekend in Tobermory, Mull.

On Friday evening after enjoying drinks and a meal in the Park Lodge Hotel, where many were staying, it was downhill to the Aros Hall.  Some “well kennt” faces and a marvellous programme compiled by Margo Priestley, contributed to a great evening.  Dances included some Dunfermline favourites like The Markinch Mars Bar King – in honour of Margo’s cousin Ewan, and Alison Austin’s Loch Fitty Jig.

On Saturday morning there was little time to explore Mull before classes started at 10am.  Alison and Margo put us through our paces with 7 dances, featuring different formations like La Baratte and included dances written by Alison. In “La Francaise en Ecosse” Alison highlighted the French-Scottish connection with the Tourbillon and a three couple Bourrell.  Phill Jones compiled the music with a Tango theme!

In honour of our weekend, Alison wrote Tobermory Jig to Ballymory’s signature tune adapted for dancing by Phill. 

A free afternoon, and many explored the attractions of Tobermory like the Chocolate Shop, or the Glass Barn for Mull cheese tasting. Others climbed Ben More or just relaxed!

The culmination of a fabulous weekend, perhaps to be repeated, was the Saturday night dance with another great programme by Alison.