FAQs

 

Can I join you? 

Yes! We're always pleased to see new faces. See our session times and location opposite. 

 

Do I need to book in first? 

Your first session is counted as a taster and is free. Book a slot or drop us an email  if you have any questions. 

 

If you decide Gwerin is for you, you'll be added to all the group comms for how to make payments, dates of sessions and upcoming events. 

 

How much does it cost? 

If you decide Gwerin is for you after your first free taster, we keep things affordable with a £5 per session fee per family, whether you're coming solo or with a group of five! Fees are paid per term to help cover hall hire and running costs. Your first session is free as a taster.

 

What age group is it aimed at? 

This is a fully intergenerational group—there’s no lower or upper age limit. Our current members range from age 2 to 60+!

 

Can I come on my own or should I bring someone? 

Come however you like—on your own, with a friend, or with the whole family. Some dances involve partners, but we’ll always make sure you have someone to dance with.

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Is any previous experience required? 

Not at all! We welcome complete beginners as well as experienced dancers. Everything is taught step-by-step.

 

What happens in a typical session? 

We begin with a warm welcome and a gentle warm-up. Then we do a simple dance that everyone can join in with. The rest of the session includes a mix of easier and more challenging dances to suit all levels.

If you're brand new, you might watch a few dances before joining in—but there’s always something for you to try. We take breaks for water and finish with a recap. We also share news about upcoming events and performances.

 

Where do you meet? 

We meet at Blackwater Village Hall (Passmore Edwards Institute), Blackwater, TR4 8ET. There’s a small car park outside (squeeze in!) and additional parking on nearby roads. 

 

What do I wear / bring?

Wear comfortable clothes and, if possible, hard-soled shoes. We have a stock of dance shoes available to borrow for free—just return them when they no longer fit.

Bring a bottle of water—dancing can be thirsty work!

For performances, we have a team costume. Some parts are provided by the club and stay in our shared wardrobe; others (like t-shirts) are yours to keep and may need to be purchased.

 

​Do I have to perform? 

Not at all! Performing is completely optional. Many members love the chance to take part in community events, travel, and cultural exchanges—but you're welcome to just come and dance for fun.

From April, our sessions tend to shift focus to preparing for summer events. 

 

Can I just send my kids to dance?

We encourage everyone to join in—our intergenerational approach shows children that music, dance, and song can be enjoyed at any age.

However, all under-18s must be accompanied by a designated adult and cannot be dropped off. If there’s enough interest in children-only sessions, we may explore that in the future—let us know if you're interested.

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Are you insured? Are you DBS covered? 

Our lead teacher, Jowdy Davey is a practitioner member of the English Folk Dance and Song Society and covered with public liability insurance. Jowdy also has an enhanced DBS check.