L’Assembllaie d’Guernesias was formed in 1956 to preserve the language and culture of Guernsey.
Some time later it was felt that the local dances were being forgotten and so a dance group was established in 1965.
The group has performed on many occasions both in and out of doors since that date.
Functions have been attended in Belgium and France, as well as in the Bailiwick.
Unfortunately, songs and dances were not written down and have only been passed down from one generation to
other. However, in 1970 the book Guernsey Songs and Dances was published, and this contained some of the dances performed by the group today.
The present leaders of the group, Jim and Angela De Garis, took over the leadership two years ago and managed to recruit new members and an accordionist.
They are the only group in the Channel Islands dedicated to preserving our national songs and dances.
The group is comprised of twenty four lively members (one accordionist and 23
dancers) who enjoy performing and are happy to share their knowledge with anyone who is interested.
The costumes are copies of dresses which were worn by ladies and gentlemen in Guernsey during the 19th century when the dances performed were at their most popular.
There is a varied programme of fifteen traditional dances using different
formations. Unfortunately, not all of the original melodies have survived, so they have been improvised.
Some of the dances have a strong French influence, as indeed our native language, Guernesiaise, has, it being the original ancient Norman French. The two absolute favourite dances are called La Bebe and Le Tallon. These two dances were always danced at every family gathering and because the melodies are fairly simple they have survived intact.
The group are available for hire to perform both in the Bailiwick and overseas.
Contact should be made in the first place to the leaders of the group:
Jim & Angela De Garis,
Le Hechet Farm,
Castel,
Guernsey.
GY5 7BS
Tel: 01481 265799
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