| What is a Ceilidh (pro: kay-lee)
and what is a Barn Dance?
Essentially the same thing: A group of people gather together to get hot
and sweaty dancing to some good music and under the direction of someone
telling them how to do it (the Caller). If pushed we'd have to say that
a Ceilidh is traditionally a bit more acoustic, celtic and quiet than
a Barn Dance. The English-Style
ceilidh, however, usually has drums, electric instruments and is more
rocky. That's us :).
What's so good about Ceilidhs?
It's the ideal thing for big friendly events, and those where you want
people to meet people. With a ceilidh everyone gets to dance with just
about everyone else. What better way is there to meet your new inlaws,
relatives or the supporters of your good cause? Our caller gives you clear
instructions and walks you through the dances so that anyone can take
part. from kids and grannies
What should we wear?
Comfortable shoes and deodorant. Anything else is up to you :)
How much do you charge?
It depends on a number of things, type, location, date and time of event.
We have special rates for registered charities (pro. ‘Chair-ee-dee,
Mate’) (We also have special rates for corporate gigs .. :) ) Please
contact us for more details.
What's included in the fee?
The Band with two of us doing the Calling (that's the dance instructions), PA and Lights (for gigs up to 175 people - larger venues need more gear and cost more) ... and copious amounts of Jelly Babies
How many people are in the band?
There are 5 members of the band but we normally play with 4 of us. We have two Daves and they can't always make the gigs which is why there's two. Sometimes we can all make a date in which case there will be 5. For really special (and large) dances we may get in a specialist caller as well.
How long do you play for?
Normally from about 8.15-ish to 11.15-ish with a short break sometime.
Other times are possible
Are you available on a specific date?
Contact us and we'll let you know
Do we have to know how to do the dances?
Nah! That's why we have a caller. The caller explains everything to you
and shows you all of the moves. Once you start dancing the caller will
guide you along and help you remember what to do.
What if we already know what to do and want a challenge?
No problem. We can get in a specialist caller who knows lots of the most challenging dances you have ever met. Fortunately the music for them is just as simple :)
Do you do Gay Gordons and Strip the Willow?
You dancin'? Yes we do traditional stuff - not always to traditional tunes
though...
If you have a favourite, just ask.
Do you play stuff other than diddly dance tunes?
Yes. On a typical gig [Hah! What's that then Si? - ed] we play
a mixture of stuff. We play traditional tunes for called dances, we will
probably play some soul, rock 'n' roll and blues numbers for freestyle
dancing and some non traditional tunes for traditional dances. We will
probably also play some folkin' tunes whilst people are resting between
dances. If you have a preference, let us know.
How loud are you?
We can be almost acoustic but it's not usual. We use a small PA for the
vocals, caller and squeezebox unless the venue needs more. In general
we will play at the appropriate volume given the audience and venue. We
will always turn down (or up!) if asked.
How much time do you need to set up before you start playing?
Ideally we like 2 hours but we can do it in less, especially if there
are willing hands to help shift the gear.
Do you need a stage?
It's not essential but it's a lot better
Can you give us references to talk to?
Sure, just ask. You might also like to read the Quotes bit on the About
Us Page..
Can we have our special tune played before you start the diddly
stuff?
Yes. We have a CD player plugged into the PA. You can supply a CD for
us to play in the breaks or, if it's a diddly tune, we can play
it for you.
Can you add a fiddle player to the line up?
Yes, usually, but it will cost more :)
Will you work with a disco?
Yes, That's not a problem.
Can I buy you all a drink??
Oooo yes please! 2 pints of bitter, 2 Cokes and something very strange
for the caller (usually)
Do you need feeding?
That would be nice. Essentially we need to know if there is food for the
band so that we know if we need to eat beforehand.
Why do you keep playing the start of Robin Hood whenever I walk
by?
It's a secret diddly band thing. I'll tell you once you can play the melodeon.
If you can't do our gig do you know anyone else?
Yes we know loads of people, just ask.
http://www.jellied-reels.co.uk
sdc123@hotmail.com
07970 930130
029 20 212 747
Simon
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