Spain 2002
We were invited to dance in Vilanova i la Geltru, which is a city 30 miles south of Barcelona. We were the guests of "Bal de Bastons" (stick dancers) of Vilanova i la Geltru.
They were celebrating their 25th Anniversary with a weekend of dance to which they had invited old and new friends (they found us from our website). As in many European countries they are proud of their folk traditions and are financially supported by local government.
Our stay was paid for by our hosts (apart from the air fares) on the understanding that they can make a return visit.
Quote by Sarah Archer - team Squire
"On the 12th of July 12 dancers,3 musicians and 4 spouses flew from Lulsgate to Barcelona, by coach from there to Vilanova i la Geltru 30 miles south of Barcelona.
We were invited by Bal de Bastons(stick dancers) to celebrate their 25th Anniversary. We were their guests and only had to pay our airfare.
Our visit was financially supported by FIMPT (festival international de musica popular traditional).It is a pity we don't support our traditions like this.
A brilliant time was had by all, making new friends, comparing music and dances, and learning about Catalonian traditions and customs. On Saturday evening we danced in the streets of Vilanova in a bustling noisy carnival atmosphere, with other dancers from Vilanova,Valencia and Seville.
Now we are planning to invite them back (either 2003/2004) and have been applying for grants from the local council and Folk South West. We don't support our traditions as many countries seem to do. We should be proud of them".
| Contact WDBM Last modified October 7, 2004 |