St George's Feast is a normally biennial event in the DHDS calendar. Until 2004 it was held at Hengrave Hall near Bury St Edmunds. With the closure of Hengrave Hall, we are seeking a suitable alternative
The last Feast was held on 23-25 April 2004. The weekend was centred on the Jacobean feast and dancing on Saturday night. It marked the peace treaty with Spain of 1604, when Prince Henry led the dancing at the celebrations in London, and remembered the Gunpowder Plot of the 5th of November 1605, which threatened the security of Westminster. The dancing featured the repertoire of 1606, including dances with Spanish connections.
Starting on Friday with a reception before dinner, there was an introduction to the weekend followed by an enjoyable dancing session. Saturday morning and afternoon were spent practising under the direction of Anne Daye, and preparing for the evening. This included instruction for beginners by Hazel Dennison. The feast on Saturday evening was prepared by experts in Jacobean menus, and served in the manner of the time. The dancing was accompanied by the Bedford Waits on instruments of the period. Sunday morning and afternoon was led by Diana Campbell Jewitt, National Education Officer of the English Folk Dance and Song Society, on the Longsword Dances of England, with an introductory talk followed by a practical workshop for all.
St George's Feast 2004
Photographs of the 1996 feast and other events can be seen in the photo gallery.