FAQs
1. What is a Mumper?
The Oxford English Dictionary has a list of definitions for 'mump', none of which is really anything to do with the question! As we understand it, a 'mumper' is a human being, male or female, who enjoys good music, dance, and having fun.
2. Is Mumpers a dance club?
Hmmm. Well, there's always dancing at Mumpers ceilidhs - but then there are often other things as well. Mumpers isn't purely a dance club, and in fact we'd like it to continue to grow into a wider experience of folk arts generally.
3. What is a 'Residents Night'?
Anyone is welcome to bring an instrument (provided you can play it) and join one of our resident bands (currently Forbidden Gannet) in playing for dancing, we play mainly English and Irish tunes. Sheet music is usually available for most tunes. It may well be worth coming along to one of our Music Sessions as well - see Home page for details. If you have other talents to bring - singing? juggling? calling? - then please do so!
4. What type of dancing is it?
English Folk Dancing has evolved over the centuries, today it is a combination of dances from mainland Europe arriving via the Royal Courts and dances from the countryside "folk". Dances are done with a partner in groups with other people, each dance lasts approximately 6 minutes with a break inbetween, each week we do different dances. You can participate in as few or as many dances as you choose to and it can be as energetic or sedate as you want. Our dances are mainly of English origin but we also do some Irish, Scottish and American dances. Please see the video page for a demonstration.
5. Do I need any experience?
No, but some of our evenings are more suitable for absolute beginners, please contact us if you are unsure. All dances are walked through beforehand and there are many experienced dancers to help beginners through each dance. If you would like to go through a sequence slower please feel free to stop and ask for help.
6. Do I need to bring a partner?
No, there will be experienced people to dance with.
7. Do I need to attend regularly?
No, (see answer to question 2) just turn up when you want to.
8. Are children allowed?
Yes, but we would recommend they are at least 6 years old.
9. When and where.
Dances are held on 1st and 3rd Sunday evenings at Meadows Inn, Chequers Road, Derby, DE21 6EP. Please see events page for dates. (map)
10. Cost.
The cost per evening is £3.50 each for adults, £2.50 OAPs & unemployed, children up to the age of 16 are free.
11. What clothing would be suitable?
Loose fitting clothing . Most people wear a short-sleeved top or lightweight long-sleeved shirt for dancing and bring a jumper for breaktime. Skirts need to allow for enough movement so can't be close fitted, A-line or free flowing are perfect. Comfy, flat(ish) shoes or trainers.
12. Is there a bar?
Yes, ale on draft, soft drinks available.
13. Is there a car park or public transport links?
Yes, there is a free car park at the venue.
By bus and rail: Click on the map in question 9 and zoom in. The small blue squares on Eastgate and Nottingham Road are bus stops, click on a stop and enter theTransport Direct website to plan a journey by bus and/or rail.
14. Bands & Callers.
There is a live band every evening who will provide all the music through the evening. If you would like to hear a band please look at the links page. The "caller" is a person who will choose and teach each dance and liase with the band for suitable music.
If you are in a band or are a caller and would like to be considered for booking, please contact us. The venue has 2 x 13amp power sockets within 2m of the band area. The club has a sound desk (requires booking) but bands are welcome to bring their own.