About us

The Ring of Eight are based in Dorset and have, since their inception, sought to project the colour and elegance of our English dancing heritage.  Originally formed in 1981 to display at the Christchurch Folk Festival, the group has gone from strength to strength performing at Wimborne & Swanage Folk Festivals, Lulworth Castle, Sherborne Castle Country Fayre, plus Fetes and private functions.  We have also been invited to represent the English country dance scene by the local towns of Ferndown and Lymington by dancing in their twin towns in Germany & France.

You are invited to step back in time to the 17th century, to the grace and style of the gentry at the time of the Restoration of the House of Stuart to the Throne of England.  The costumed dance display, as interpreted for display by the Ring of Eight dancers and musicians, will delight you with "Playford" and similar dances, music, gossip and humour from the Court of His Gracious Majesty King Charles II.

We also invite you to the 18th century to experience displays of dances from the Regency (Jane Austen) period.  In 2010 Ring of Eight were invited by the National Trust to re-create the atmosphere of a Ball, originally held in 1791, at their Kingston Lacy property just outside Wimborne, Dorset.  This was the first time such an event had been held inside the house since the property opened to the public in 1986.  We were delighted to be able to present this unique event for them which they deemed a great success.

 

Come and Join us at our 30th Anniversary Playford Ball
Tickets now available
See the "Events" page for details




  • Typical Dances

                                 

    We are available to provide dancing displays and entertainment at school & garden fetes, club meetings and private functions such as weddings, anniversaries or any other special celebrations.
     
    Whatever the occasion we can provide your event with a unique level of authenticity and interactivity.   This will ensure your visitors will enjoy the experience and leave with a greater understanding of what it was like to live and dance in days gone by.

    We also have a special Christmas programme with a colourful costumed display of dancing and carols and the telling of tales of Christmas past to enhance your gathering in the run up to the festive season.

    If you are interested in booking us or would like further information, please contact our secretary Joy Collins on 01202 533400 or use the Contact Us page to send an e-mail.


Ring of Eight


Dancers and Musicians