The Demonstration Group maintains a repertoire of traditional and modern dances suitable for performances in various venues, formal, informal and outdoors. Included are some locally devised dances with a Newfoundland theme for which Newfoundland tunes are used.

When planning a demo we are fortunate to be able to call upon Corryvreckan, a group of musicians, some of whom are former dancers, who practise weekly and play for our social dances. Having live music for demos gives a broad scope when planning special programmes with a particular theme and affords the ability to a designated number of repetitions.

In this province during the summer, there are many outdoor folk festivals and we participate in several of these. Bannerman Park, a delightful green space in the heart of downtown St. John's is the scene of the four day Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Festival. Brigus, one of the oldest settlements on the coast near St. John's has an annual Blueberry Festival. This past summer our group traveled to the remote offshore island of Fogo to take part in their Brimstone Head Festival. The outdoor stage was set up with a background of rocks and pounding seas. Brimstone Head, a large upthrust of rock has been identified by The Flat Earth Society as one of the five corners of the earth. The Commisariat House in St. John's, a provincial historic site, has been restored to the period of 1831, when Mr. John Laidley was in residence. Each summer, a Scottish week-end is featured to highlight the role the Scots have played in many aspects of development in the province. It is a pleasure to dance in this lovely outdoor setting.

During the year these are many of the events in which the group participates. A special programme is planned for the Burns' Supper. Our dances and music are chosen with a Burns' theme in mind, and as a dedication to each of the traditional speeches. Medleys and choreographies are devised to heighten the visual impact and enjoyment. We conclude the evening with an hour of general dancing where the audience has a chance to experience the fun of Scottish dancing.

There are various ethnic populations here and the Multicultural Association frequently showcases these groups. Occasions to which we have been invited to perform. We meet requests from schools, churches, seniors residences, charitable fund raisers etc. as our commitment to community service.

A Photo Album of Past Demonstrations

Noreen MacLennan
February 3, 2000

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