French band to headline traditional folk dance in Oxford

Cosmos Chocolat, an award-winning quartet known for their fresh take on traditional French folk music, will perform at Kennington Village Centre in Oxford on Sunday, April 26.

The event is a collaboration between Balfolk Oxford and Oxfolk Ceilidhs, following their sold-out French dance during the Oxford Folk Festival earlier this month.

The band will bring an evening of music and movement to life using the hurdy-gurdy, accordion, fiddle, and French ‘boha’ bagpipes.

A short beginners’ session will take place before the main event, led by Kerry Fletcher, one of the UK’s most loved French dance teachers and Co-Artistic Director of Folk Dance Remixed.

A spokesperson for Balfolk Oxford said: “Some dances are partnered, some are circles, some snake along in long, trancy lines.

“All are lively, soulful, and rich in spirit.

“If you are new to balfolk, this is great opportunity to learn some dances and hear music from a top quality band.”

The workshop begins at 3.30pm, with the main dance running from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

A bal is a relaxed, continental folk dance and music session, for everyone.

People are encouraged to bring family, friends, children and even their dog to have a dance.

Tickets can be booked through buytickets.at/oxfolkceilidhs.