Events
The Basingstoke set dance weekends are unique in the UK. There are two major factors that we believe make Basingstoke weekends special (and it’s not just us, it’s consistent feedback from our dancers too!)
Our weekends are about fusions. The first is the result of our special connection to international dancers from around Europe (and more recently, North America). Members of the Basingstoke group have been regular visitors to dance events all over Europe in Lille, Tournai, Erlangen, Prague, Switzerland, Heidelberg and Bologna (and a few others). The connections and friendships established have resulted in lots of international dancers making regular trips to Basingstoke.
The second is the connection specifically to the English folk scene, and more broadly to dancers who participate in other folk dances.
SetsMad benefits hugely from the combination of dancers from other traditions, international dancers and those of us deep in the set dance tradition. It’s that fusion that creates the magic.
SetsMad Dance Weekend
19th - 21st September 2025
This event showcases the sets less-often danced, and has a reputation as the biggest and best set dance weekend in England.
A warm and welcoming atmosphere, music from "Rise the Dust", and teaching from Padraig and Roisin McEneaney combine to make this event unique in the set dance calendar.
"Cakefest " at the ceili on Sunday afternoon and an evening session at Basingstoke Irish Centre with a fish and chip supper means the weekend is extended in the best way possible.
Come and join us..
Sweet 16!
Setsmad 2025 represents Pádraig and Róisín McEneany 16th workshop weekend in Basingstoke, starting in 2008 when we were all so young! Over the years they have shared many (around 60) sets from all around Ireland (and elsewhere) in packed workshops. They focus on the technical aspects, ensuring dancers have a good understanding of and appreciation for the differing regional styles and a focus on the steps for the different types of dance music (reels, polkas, jigs, hornpipes etc).
It was a workshop of theirs that was the inspiration for the Setsmad Revival concept – we wondered who might organise and host such an event, and despite our inexperience, in the absence of someone (anyone) else we decided in 2008 to have a go. P&R have been with us ever since!
Spring Thing 2026
20th - 22nd March
Save the date
More info coming soon
Carol and Kevin are available to run workshops, classes, team-building, parties, wedding receptions or other events. Please contact us for more details!