KEEN TO KEEP THE BALL ROLLING

DANCE tunes popular in 19th century Tasmania will be featured at the Grand Regency Ball at the Hobart Town Hall on May 23.

The ball has been organised by the Folk Federation of Tasmania and the music will be performed by members of the Harp Society of Tasmania.

Harp society treasurer Jenny Smith said Regency dances weren’t all refined, choreographed elegance.

“It’s everything that dancing can be — emotional, energetic, and expressive of our natural playfulness,” she said. “There is grace, but there is also vigour and challenge, optional historical steps, fun and, perhaps most importantly, the joy of moving to beautiful, lively music.”

The music includes tunes by Scotsman Alexander Lang.

“Lang was trained in the Scottish fiddle music of his era and spent time in Ireland with the British army before committing a crime that led to his transportation to Van Diemens Land, where he later became a police constable,” Smith said.

She said the ball would also feature tunes by colonial Tasmanian artist and composer Henry Mundy.

Smith said people were encouraged to dress in the fashions of the era. All dances will be taught and no dancing experience or partner is required. Patrons are asked to bring a plate of supper befitting a ball.

An optional workshop will be held at the Wesley Hall in Melville St from 2-4pm. Entry is $8.

The Grand Regency Ball is at the Hobart Town Hall from 7.30pm on May 23. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 concession, $20 for members, and $15 for students under 14.