The Nariel band play for three traditional old time dances in the Nariel style at the Cudgewa Hall, with a bracket of colonial dances during the second sitting of supper. There are two evenings of ‘Dancing on the Green’ at the Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Night, these being bush dances led by a scratch band. Musicians are always welcome to join in.

On New Year’s Day there is a blackboard concert and picnic on the Green, where many of the performers present, including new and local talent, are given the opportunity to provide entertainment for the afternoon. During the festival, there are a number of informal workshops in singing, various instruments, various styles of music, calling dances, learning dances and others. Children’s activities are also catered for with drama and kids art, music and theatrical workshops being run.

Please note that the Nariel Festival does not pay performers, as it is regarded as a musicians’ holiday.

2009 Programme - Sunday 27th Dec 2009 to Saturday 2nd Jan 2009

Festival Dance Programme - MC: TBA

Note: All dances are alcohol free. Entry $7.50 includes supper and entry for lucky door prize.

One of the very special things about this festival is the very friendly and welcoming attitude of the festival goers. There are many opportunities to learn a range of styles of music and techniques on various instruments by joining in at sessions. Please ask someone to give you a little lesson if you want help to learn a tune or learn a bit more about your instrument, or if you simply want to play music with someone else.

Programme subject to change.

Do you have some ideas for other events or activities ? The committee would like to hear from anyone with any ideas for activities or workshops that will help to promote the Nariel style of music and dancing. Any ideas to get the kids involved more are also very welcome.

Find Ian, Linton or Jamie at the festival or contact us here.