On Friday 18th May in the historic surroundings of Farnham Castle , the Demeric School of Dance held a Charity Ball, to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the School and honour the Founder , Priscilla de Meric. With her twin sister, Elizabeth Lanyon, Mrs. De Meric  taught in Farnham for forty years, and in 2002, the current principals , Aurelia Whitfield and Emma Wise, acquired the school from her, adding modern, tap, jazz and street dance to the main study of Cecchetti Ballet. The Ball raised over  £2,500 for the local homeless charity “Step by Step” and was indeed a night to remember. Beginning with a champagne reception, guests were rousingly entertained by “The Choir Company” before taking their seats at beautifully decorated tables.  Then, twenty-four young dancers from the Demeric School, ages ranging from 9-18yrs, took the floor in their sparkling blue tutus and danced a heartfelt tribute to their Founder. And not only the floor!  Young ballerinas appeared in the elegant high galleries of the Great Hall to begin the dance, continued at floor level and ended by presenting a bouquet to Mrs. de Meric. The dance “To Priscilla with Love” was choreographed by Angela Hardcastle, to a Gavotte, Bourree and Gigue by J.S.Bach. After a delicious meal and plenty of action with the silent auction, guests had their own chance to dance, to the lively live band  called “Back To Funk” .  The new Mayor of Farnham Stephen Hill  spoke for everyone when he heartily thanked all who had made the evening such a huge success , and particularly the young ballet dancers ,who performed with such precision and grace. The Demeric School of Dance are hoping to raise their target of £3,000 for the charity by hosting a mufti week next week where as the children can dress up with tiaras and tutus during their dance classes at a minimum donation of a £1.00. Let’s hope the can achieve that!!!

Farnham Herald
Farnham Diary