Disco, Ceilidh, Kathak Fusion and astronauts feature strongly in this year’s Family Dance Week from October 5-13 in Oxford and Bicester.
Dancin’ Oxford has assembled a novel series of events, many of which are free, which will be held in arts venues, libraries and a shopping centre across Oxfordshire.
Claire Thompson, who has run the three Dancin’ Oxford festivals for 14 years, said: ‘One of the things I love about the Family Dance Week is that it really is for all ages. Whether you bring a grandchild, nephew, child or come with anolder friend there are several ways to get involved.
“Dance is a great medium for intergenerational and social prescribed activities, both of which are gaining ground in today’s society. We are really delighted to play our part,” she adds.
So what’s on offer? In partnership with Pegasus Open Day, Dancin’ Oxford has programmed family favourite Baby Boogie, with a new show from Sonia Sabri Dance Company on October 5.
It’s a great pairing – Baby Boogie is a mixture of games, face painting, bubbles and a disco for 5 years and under whilst ‘Same Same…But Different’ mixes Kathak, Hip Hop, contemporary dance and physical storytelling, to create a playful and colourful world for those aged 5 and over. Both events are free though booking is recommended.
This year for the first time, the Family Ceilidh, will not only be held in Cuttleslowe Pavilion but can be also experienced in Westgate Shopping Centre, the latter is free. A live band with a caller will make the experience fun for all ages. No booking required just an ability to get up and have fun.
Family audiences can join in with the very popular Wriggle Dance Theatre for the holiday of a lifetime.
Everyone is invited to head Out of This World to Cowley and Bicester libraries where they will discover intergalactic territories.
Travellers will be able to spot alien life forms and experience the wonder of weightlessness through dance, live music, rockets and stars and take a selfie or two with aliens and travel through a black hole.
Family Dance Week runs from October 5-13
Dates and Booking information can be found at dancinoxford.co.uk
TEI WILLIAMS
