10 Derby Close, Broughton Astley, Leicestershire, LE9 6NF Tel/Fax: 01455 284285     Mobile: 07904 834371     E-mail: countiesfolkagency@hotmail.com

There can be a lot of unforeseen problems in the running of an event, especially if this is your first venture into event management. We can help. We have had over 30 years experience of running events from small Folk Clubs, Fairs, Weddings, Carnivals to multi event Folk Festivals, so we can help you plan your event to run smoothly and you can accept the plaudits for your organisational skills. The floor surface required should ideally be clean, hard and a level surface, and make sure it is not slippy i.e. no polishing or French chalk to be used as this can be dangerous. If a public address system is required, our bands and/or the entertainers will bring their own P.A. and they will require a 240V power supply. Bands that have substantial stage lighting may require more than one socket. The majority of the bands have their equipment Pat Tested and all use a Contact Breaker Plug to protect their equipment as well as the venue's power supply. Most acts require up to an hour to set up and sound check. It may be necessary to make some noise during this time so please identify a window of opportunity as close to stage time as possible. A good barn dance with willing participants can be run with as little as 35 people, but ideally the minimum number you should aim for would be 50. Most barn dances last between 2 and 4 hours. Our bands will split the evening into periods of 45 minutes (they need a break as well as giving the dancers a rest!), but will be happy to plan the evening to fit in with other planned activities. This can be done in advance or worked out informally when the band arrives at the venue. People often wonder what to wear. Well the rule is anything goes, but you should err towards sensible and comfortable shoes (stiletto and platform shoes are not recommended for your own safety). One of the great things about Barn Dance, Ceilidh or Hoe Down is that absolutely no previous experience is required. The dance instructor, better known as the "Caller", will give basic instructions for each dance. They will not insist on getting the steps absolutely correct. It is neither expected nor demanded, the object is to have "fun" and keep everybody involved. Barn dance, Hoe-down and Ceilidh bands are very diverse. Most have between 3 and 6 musicians. Sometimes the Caller is also a musician. The music played is mostly based on English, Irish and Scottish tunes, and sometimes European folk tunes. The Agency can not be held responsible for any accidents, please make your own arrangements for insurance of your event. We will help you all the way. From conception through to the final event our consultant will be at your call. Should you require a personal visit, the fee is negotiable depending on distance.

Call John or Isobel at "Counties Folk and Barn Dance Agency" on 01455 284285 (Tel/Fax) or 07904 834371 or email: countiesfolkagency@hotmail.com