Planning a ceilidh: the venue
What should you look for in a venue, and how can you make the most of it?
The dance floor
It's good to give people easy access to the dance floor.
For a ceilidh, it's great to have lots of space to dance, but in practice we know this isn't always possible. We've played in very small crowded venues. If space is very limited, we'll sometimes offer to play two rounds of popular dances so things don't get too cramped.
Either way, dancing is an energetic activity, and the room will probably get a bit hot especially in summer. Check if it's possible to open windows or turn on the air-con.
Some venues have portable dance floors made of smaller panels that clip together. Whilst these are fine for discos, they tend to be a bit slippery for vigorous ceilidh dancing.
Space for the band
If there's a stage available, that's great as the guests will have a good view of the band. It's not essential though, and an area of floor space is fine.
Ideally, the band would be at one end of the room and where the dances have a clear view of the band. Our caller uses a radio microphone so he is free to walk amongst the dancers, so it doesn't matter if the band isn't visible to all your guests. It's important that he can see most of the dancers so he can spot if anybody needs any help with the steps.
We will usually bring our own amplifiers and speakers of a size suitable for the venue.
Don't forget that the band will need access to a reliable and safe power supply, usually a wall electricity socket; we carry extension leads just in case there's not one immediately next to us. If the event is to be held in a marquee powered by a generator, please ensure there is an adequate power supply and let us know in advance.
The space the band needs depends upon the size and line-up of the band that night. For a three-piece band, we'd ideally have a minimum of 5m long x 3m deep but we've fitted in smaller! We will also have PA speakers on tripod stands, somewhere near the stage.
Seating
Consider putting some seats around the edge of the room. Whilst hopefully most people will be dancing, some might prefer to sit out some of the dances and enjoy watching. Maybe arrange to have some of the tables moved after the meal to create more space.
Also, if the bar's in a separate room, some of your guests won't be able to see the fun on the dance floor and may be less likely to take part.
Venue requirements
Many hotels and public venues require the band to hold Public Liability insurance. Lochnagar carries insurance at a level required by most venues, but please check their specific requirements; we can provide a copy of the certificate if the venue needs this.
Our "portable appliances" are regularly electrically safety tested; this is also required by some venues.
