Written by Beatrice Zampieri, one of our Autumn nature conservation trainees from Italy
I am quite sure that at least once in your life you have dreamed about taking part in one of those dances that you have seen in American films, where people wear checked shirts, boots and dance surrounded by hay bales drinking beer and eating hot dogs. If you have, the right place to be on Friday 12th October was the Barn Raising, Barn Storming Barn Dance at Lower Sharpham Farm. Indeed “from 7 p.m. until late”, as the leaflet of the event described, about 200 people passed through the farm throughout the night to enjoy this barn dance.
The barn dance is a party set in a barn, where people are invited to dance line dancings with one or more partner(s), following the instruction of the ‘caller’ who is in charge of explaining the moves of the dance. The brilliant local Celtic ceilidh band Paddy’s Whiskers played fantastic music all night long, allowing people to show off their best dance moves. The barn was decorated beautifully with fairy lights, the bar area was generously stocked with good ales and cider, and there was a stand with delicious hamburgers which catered for everybody’s dietary needs. In such a familiar and cosy place, it was impossible not to be caught up in the rhythm of the live band, the energy of the dances and the good atmosphere. With the help of the Ambios staff, the volunteers and trainees of Lower Sharpham Farm and United Response staff, the people who United Response support and the local community could enjoy a brilliant party. The night a real success and amusement for all was guaranteed. I can’t wait for the next barn dance, can you?!
