Gwerin Cornish Dance - First Free Taster (4th October 2026)

Sign up for your first free session here! 

If you enjoy yourself and decide Gwerin is for you, you'll be sent details of how to transfer the half termly subs. 

Gwerin is an intergenerational group celebrating traditional Cornish music, dance and song. Gwerin means 'folk' in the Cornish language.

With members ranging from two years old and upwards, we welcome dancers and musicians of all ages, celebrating Cornish culture and having fun passing these cultural treasures on from one generation to the next.

What age group is it aimed at? 

This is a fully intergenerational group—there’s no lower or upper age limit. Our current members range from age 2 to 60+!

Can I come on my own or should I bring someone? 

Come however you like—on your own, with a friend, or with the whole family. Some dances involve partners, but we’ll always make sure you have someone to dance with.

​​Is any previous experience required? 

Not at all! We welcome complete beginners as well as experienced dancers. Everything is taught step-by-step.

What happens in a typical session? 

We begin with a gentle warm-up. Then we do a simple dance that everyone can join in with. The rest of the session includes a mix of easier and more challenging dances to suit all levels.

If you're brand new, you might watch a few dances before joining in—but there’s always something for you to try. We take breaks for water and finish with a recap. We also share news about upcoming events and performances.

2pm arrival for a 2.15pm start 

2.15 - 3pm - Simpler dances that even the really little ones can join in with (we've had babes in arms and our current youngest is 2 years old)

3 - 3.15pm - We stop for a drink and to catch our breath. If 45 mins is enough for you and any little ones with you, you're welcome to call it a day there.

3.15 - 4pm - We move on to dances more suited to older children (c. 6yrs +) through to teenagers and adults. Littler ones are welcome to stay with you if you're an adult who'd like to remain for the second half. We have colouring and activities to keep little ones occupied (or bring your own).

4pm - Session closes 

Where do you meet? 

We meet at Blackwater Village Hall. There’s a small car park outside (squeeze in!) and additional parking on nearby roads. Please be considerate of our neighbours.

What do I wear / bring?

Wear comfortable clothes and, if possible, hard-soled shoes. We have a stock of dance shoes available to borrow for free—just return them when they no longer fit.

Bring a bottle of water—dancing can be thirsty work!

For performances, we have a team costume. Some parts are provided by the club and stay in our shared wardrobe; others (like t-shirts) are yours to keep and may need to be purchased.

​Do I have to perform? 

Not at all! Performing is completely optional. Many members love the chance to take part in community events, travel, and cultural exchanges—but you're welcome to just come and dance for fun.

From April, our sessions shift focus to preparing for summer events. 

Can I just send my kids to dance?

We encourage everyone to join in—our intergenerational approach shows children that music, dance, and song can be enjoyed at any age.

However, all under-18s must be accompanied by a designated adult and cannot be dropped off. If there’s enough interest in children-only sessions, we may explore that in the future—let us know if you're interested.

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