Quite a busy time for Phoenix recently:

At Sidmouth Folk Festival. Two Phoenix members. Andrew & Lily, took part in the John Gasson jig competition. A single jig ‘Blue eyed stranger’ was danced by Andrew. accompanied by Lily on whistle for music. Then a double jig “Nutting Girl’ was performed by both, with another musician at the helm. Unfortunately neither jig actually won, despite beating off some stiff competition, including the team on the double jig who win it every year. Although both dancers were actually with their other sides, they performed in Phoenix kit, because the jigs were inspired by some of the Batchworth dances by Sue, our late foreman.

The two jigs are within the attached YouTube links.

Andrew dancing ‘Blue eyed stranger. Lily on accompaniment. https://youtu.be/fjSbjTTjwfM?is=TJ1BRKWtFdN5eFS2

Andrew & Lily with the double ‘Nutting Girl’, with another musician on accompaniment. https://youtu.be/yDlK_XUNk_Q?si=LCasJHe5nrgIskHm

Next up was Broadstairs Folk Week, where the main contingent of Phoenix danced at the weekend, now being joined by our jigging duo via Sidmouth.

These pictures are from Broadstairs.

Tuesday evening 28th July, and Phoenix were once again dancing at the Market Square in Henley, guests of OBJ Morris. They are a mixed Border side, based in the Bracknell & Wokingham area, and hold this event each year, with TaeppasTump & Aldbrickham also attending as usual

(Pictures courtesy of Jo & Ian, Phoenix dancers)

This is a link to a YouTube video by Rickmansworth News. It was in Rickmansworth Town Centre & the Aquadrome. The video is around 15 minutes long. (Once you get past the adverts)

Saturday 18th July, saw Phoenix once again performing at Rickmansworth Folk Festival, held in the Bury Gardens. In contrast to last year, where heavy showers soaked everyone, this time the weather was warm & sunny, although thankfully not as hot it had recently been.

After the opening introductions, Phoenix performed with their first set of the day, in front of the stage, with additional sets between changeovers during the day. We also did a short spot out in the High Street, with time for lunch, & liquid refreshment, later returning to the Bury for our next set, including of course, a spot of audience participation.

Following the last of the “official” sets, some headed home, whilst others stayed to watch/listen to the excellent entertainment provided on stage from the other artists. However there was also chance for an impromptu jig by two Phoenix dancers, and a solo musician.

Another great day had by all, and no doubt we will return again next year for more of the same.

A selection of the many pictures taken over the day. Courtesy of various Phoenix members, friends & family.

The day’s programme. With Phoenix performing between some of the changeovers.

On Wednesday evening 8th July, Phoenix flocked to The Old Shepherd pub, in Chorleywood Bottom, for another very warm dance out. A small but appreciative audience sat at the garden tables to watch. As we were on our own we did three shortish sets, with a music interlude in-between dances. However we got some of them up on their feet, to join in the (appropriately named) Shepherds Hey, audience participation dance. As ever, all very good fun. And well received by the pub.

Pictures with many thanks to various Phoenix members.