The first ever Beginners’ Iberian Weekend of Scottish Country Dance was held in Carcavelos, on the Estoril coast. More than 40 dancers came together for this innovative event, intended as a preparation for the “real” Iberian Weekend, a major event attracting over 150 dancers and featuring two balls, held every year in March at different venues in Spain and Portugal.

Organised by the Telheiras Scottish Country Dance Group, the weekend’s events were held at two different venues, and all participants, which included Spanish, Germans, Norwegians and Estonians, had an enjoyable time.

In spite of its name, the weekend was not just for beginners and many of the people there were experienced dancers whose aim was to help the others. The event culminated in the Sunday class where everyone successfully learnt three tricky, but delightful dances.

By the time the weekend ended, with the traditional singing of Auld Lang Syne, it was clear that everyone had had an unforgettable experience as well as a very solid preparation for the 2007 Iberian Weekend.

The next event being organised by the Telheiras Scottish Country Dance Group is a ceilidh, to be held on Saturday, November 18 at the German School in Telheiras, Lisbon.

The ceilidh is open to everyone and will include easy dances as well as food, drink and lots of good humour!

For more information, contact Roger Picken or Sue Willdig on 212 383 737 or e-mail suerog@mail.telepac.pt