Rheda’s Dream Morris side are dancing at the Rose and Crown pub in Beckley on Saturday, July 8. This is their first summer dancing together and they would love a local Morris side to come along to the Rose and Crown so they can share the dancing time and get to learn from a more experienced Morris side.
Rheda’s Dream member, Erica Smith said: “So far this summer we have danced at Jack in the Green, the Sussex Day of Dance in Lewes and at the Sanctuary festival in Hastings. We’ve also had stands at local pubs in St Leonards and Pevensey, but dancing at the Rose and Crown will be our first dance in the Rye area. Established Morris sides get their dates booked up very early in the year, and we haven’t yet found a side to partner with in Beckley. If any Morris sides read this and feel like joining us on Saturday, July 8, we’d be delighted to dance with you!”
Rheda’s Dream started practicing together in October 2022. They are unusual because very few of the dancers had any experience of Morris dancing before joining. Thanks to their enthusiastic Squire, Amy Cullis, and experienced musicians, Alan Jeffries and Bob Fountain, the new side have learned several dances and are enjoying learning about the Morris tradition.
Erica said: “I have always secretly dreamed of being in a Morris side and it’s been wonderful to get to know the other Rheda’s Dream members and practice these traditional dances. We might not be the most experienced dancers yet, but we bring a lot of energy to our dancing. We are really looking forward to the stand in Beckley.”
Rheda’s Dream will be at the Rose and Crown pub from 12:30pm to 2pm on Saturday July 8. If you are in, or know a Morris side who would like to join them – please come along!
Image Credits: Catherine Mary Francis .