LA BRISE D'ANJOU - 50TH ANNIVERSARY

by Margaret Rowe, Saturday, 11th October 2008

On September 26th the Thistle Society, Wigan was off to enjoy a second visit to Angers. This time at the invitation of La Brise d'Anjou, with whom we are twinned, to join in the celebrations for their 50th Anniversary. Nine of us, Tom our piper and eight dancers were able to go. We were met at the station in Angers and welcomed into the homes of members and friends of the group.

Saturday, a beautiful sunny day, was a wonderful experience. La Brise d'Anjou welcomed the Thistle Society and three other Groupe Folklorique from: Aunis et Saintonge de Saintes, Tretaux et Terroirs de Nantes and Le Poutou de Toulouse. After light refreshments and much chatter we walked to Esplanade Quai Ligny to assemble for the Grand Parade through Angers starting at 14.30h. We were led by a member of La Brise d'Anjou, with a board announcing who we were and where we came from. Each group also carried their flag. During the parade there were six places where performances were given by each of the groups - sometimes there was plenty of room, other times the audience and dancers were squashed into a small area close to the shops. However, at each point the people of Angers appreciated the music, the dancing and the colourful costumes.

At 17h30 we arrived at the Hotel de Ville where we each danced outside in front of the beautiful building. Then we were welcomed inside to be greeted by the Mayor for speeches and presentations, and this was followed by wine and nibbles. It was now time to make our way by coach to Grenier St Jeane to continue the festivities.

Grenier St Jeane is a wonderful 150 year old building used now as a Banqueting Hall. It was beautifully set out for about 300 people. On one side of the hall there was a display showing interesting events throughout the 50 years of La Brise d'Anjou. Once we were all settled a DVD celebrating 50 years was shown. Then a superb meal was served. Whilst it was being served each group in turn gave a 15 minutes display. At the end of the meal there was a celebratory cake; presentations were made to La Brise d'Anjou and by them to each group. It was now 23.30h and time for everyone to join in the dancing! We enjoyed trying out the different folklore dances - it was great fun! About 02.00h we made our way back with our hosts, tired, but happy after a wonderful day.

Sunday we all had a relaxed time with our hosts seeing the sights of Angers. In the evening La Brise d'Anjou entertained their guests and hosting families at their HQ where we all enjoyed a leisurely meal with lots of laughter, good food and wine.

On Monday afternoon lots of our friends came to see us off at the station. It had been a very special weekend - one not to be forgotten.