We are holding an inclusive ceilidh in Exeter on Friday 24 March, where the dances will be specially adapted for everyone to take part.
The ceilidh (barn dance) is taking place at InFocus College at Topsham Road, Countess Wear, starting at 6.30pm.
Wren Music Community Musician, Jenny Read, said: “It’s for anyone who wants to dance. The dances will be adapted to be accessible to people in wheelchairs, and people with visual impairment or additional needs.
“Jon Dyer will be calling the dances and guiding everyone through them, and he will be responsive to the needs of people in the room. With music for the dances provided by the Folk Orchestra of East Devon.
“The hall and the facilities are also all accessible, it should be a lot of fun.”
Three of Wren Music’s community groups will be performing on the night – The Devon Inclusive Folk Ensemble, The East Devon Folk Choir, and the Folk Orchestra of East Devon.
The dance will continue until around 9pm. Refreshments will be available, and there will be a hamper raffle.
The event is being held in support of the Devon Inclusive Folk Ensemble, and all funds raised on the night will go towards the continuation of the group. The group exists to give young people with special educational needs and/or disability the opportunity to make music together with their family.
Nicola and her daughter Lucy are among those who have been attending Devon Inclusive Folk Ensemble. Nicola said: “Our daughter is blind and severely physically disabled. Her hearing and voice are everything to her, music has been such a huge part of her life from a very young age. To be part of a group like this has meant everything to our daughter.
“She so looks forward to coming and is made so welcome by everyone. She has loved learning all the new songs, catching up with friends and making new friends. She also loves trying out and having a go at playing all the different instruments that are offered at each session.
“It is fantastic to see all the young people in the group having such a wonderful time, enjoying and being able to be themselves in such an inclusive group,” added Nicola.
The event is free. To book your place, visit www.wrenmusic.co.uk/whats-on
