The York Regency Dancers are a performance group, dedicated to recreating historic dances for public performance, with a focus on authenticity and education. The group has a regular instructional programme where dances and figures are learned and perfected. Volunteers rehearse repertoire every other Sunday from September to March, and dance throughout the performance season from April to August. Most importantly, members will require a commitment to attending practices regularly, and the drive to continuously improve technique. For those interested in recreational dance opportunities, the Toronto English Country Dancers host events and lessons in downtown Toronto throughout the year.
If you are interested in joining the York Regency Dancers, a good sense of rhythm, physical co-ordination and memory are essential. Background in dance or music is also very helpful. Newcomers will be required to participate in a training programme starting in September in preparation for a dance assessment in December. Successful completion of the assessment will allow accepted newcomers to join the troupe.
Volunteers are also required to have historically accurate clothing for performance indoors and outdoors, during the day and evening. For information regarding costuming, please visit our Links page.
| For Ladies: | For Gentlemen: |
| Long-sleeved gown | Tailcoat |
| Chemisette | Waistcoat |
| Shawl | White Shirt |
| Stockings | Breeches/Trousers |
| Flat Shoes | Stockings |
| Bonnet | Buckled Shoes |
| Gloves | Gloves |
Below is an article about our dance group by Sylvia McCluskey, which describes what the group does, and outlines its expectations.
If you are interested, please contact us using the Contact Us form found Here. Also, please fill out and email us a copy of the York Regency Dancers Questionnaire (below).