Scots in Tasmania are getting  ready to put on their dancing shoes and celebrate a truly extraordinary year at the Tascal Winter Ball Weekend 2023.

This year’s event promises to be a whirlwind of fun as it commemorates the centenary of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society’s formation in 1923. So, if you’re in Tassie, mark your calendars for Friday, August 18th, through Sunday, August 20th, and get ready to be part of the historic festivities in Hobart.

On Friday evening, kick off the weekend with two exciting options.

You can choose to tour the Unshackled/Convict Memorial Hub at the Hobart Penitentiary Chapel Site. Delve into the city’s dark past and experience a MONA-like digital history presentation that showcases Tasmania’s convict heritage with a Scottish twist. Tales of crime and punishment abound at the Penitentiary Chapel Historic Site; all that remains of the two-acre sprawl that was the Hobart Prison Barracks – the processing centre for all 42,000 male convicts sent to Van Diemen’s Land. 

This immersive journey includes a tour of the historic chapel, courts, and cells. 

Afterward, join the friendly supper at St George’s Church Hall, where you can chat with fellow dancers and plan your exciting Saturday activities.

Alternatively, if you’re itching to get those dance moves going, join the Ball Programme Walk-Through at St George’s Church Hall. Brush up on some of the dances featured in the program, and indulge in a delicious supper. Whether you choose the tour or the walk-through, Friday night promises to set the tone for an unforgettable weekend.

The highlight of the weekend is the Saturday evening Gala event at the stunning Hobart Town Hall, a masterpiece of history itself. The festivities begin with the Grand March led by the talented piper Geoff Jones, setting the stage for a night of dance through the decades. The lively music of Chris Duncan and Catherine Strutt will keep you moving with non-stop energy and contagious enthusiasm.

The dance program features delightful Scottish dances from each of the ten decades, showcasing the evolution of formations and dance styles over the past century. Miss Milligan and Mrs Stewart, the founding figures of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society, will be honoured through special dances. Don’t worry if you’re not an expert dancer; the joy and passion that Chris and Catherine bring to the music will inspire everyone to join in the fun.

Sunday brings an optional extra: a centenary toast at the Drink Tasmania Tasting House in beautiful and historic Richmond. Sample some of the finest Tasmanian whiskies, gins, or other spirits and raise a glass to the RSCDS and dancers worldwide. Afterward, head to the Richmond Town Hall for a relaxed and fun picnic day with friends and family. Bring your food to share, your dancing shoes, and musical instruments to jam along with Chris and Catherine.

The Tascal Winter Ball Weekend 2023 promises an unforgettable experience of dance, history, and celebration. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to be part of a very special year! Grab your tickets now and get ready to dance the night away and toast to a century of Scottish dance at its finest. It’s going to be a weekend full of laughter, joy, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Tickets for the events are available for purchase, with prices starting at $15 for the Ball Programme Walk-Through and $55 for the Winter Ball. To book, go to https://www.trybooking.com/CGIRV

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12

1.30pm – 3.30pm: Winter Ball Workshops. Learn the easy dances for the Hobart Winter Ball. If you’ve ever done ceilidh dancing or bush dancing, these classes will have you ready to strut your stuff at the Winter Ball. 

Pat Murnane Hall, Lenah Valley. Adult $7, child $5. 

FRIDAY, AUGUST 18

6pm – 8pm: Choose Your Adventure!

Option 1: Tour the Unshackled/Convict Memorial Hub at Hobart Penitentiary Chapel Site. $25pp includes supper at St George’s Church Hall.

6pm – 8pm: Option 2: Ball Walk-Through. Brush up on dances at St George’s Church Hall. $15pp, includes supper at St George’s  Church Hall.

8.15pm – 9pm: Supper at St George’s Church Hall.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19

7pm: Gather at Hobart Town Hall for the Grand Gala.

7.30pm: Grand March led by piper Geoff Jones.

Dance through the decades with musicians Chris Duncan and Catherine Strutt.

Tickets: Adult $55, 16 years & under $25, spectators $30.

Supper included. 

SUNDAY, AUGUST 20

11am – 12pm: Optional whisky tasting, meet at The Drink Tasmania Tasting House in Richmond. Whisky paddle $35, Gin paddle $20, other spirits paddle $20.

11am – 3pm: Picnic and Dance at Richmond Town Hall. Join musicians Chris Duncan and Catherine Strutt. Bring picnic food to share, dancing shoes, a musical instrument, family and friends. Cost $10.