Burns Supper 23rd January

Burns Suppers have been part of Scottish culture for about 200 years as a means of commemorating his life. The ritual was started by close friends of Burns a few years after his death in 1796 as a tribute to his memory. We will be holding a Black tie, 3 course dinner and ceilidh at the Clubhouse on 23rd January to join in with this tradition. Tickets will be available behind the bar and at training from early January. For those of you unfamiliar with the traditions of a Burns Night Supper there is some more information below.

THE FORMAT FOR A BURNS SUPPER

Chairperson's opening address
A few welcoming words start the evening and the meal commences with the Selkirk Grace

The Immortal Memory
One of the central features of the evening. An invited guest is asked to give a short speech on Burns. There are many different types of Immortal Memory speeches, from light-hearted to literary, but the aim is the same - to outline the greatness and relevance of the poet today.

Toast To The Lasses
The main speech is followed by a more light-hearted address to the women in the audience. Originally this was a thank you to the ladies for preparing the food and a time to toast the 'lasses' in Burns' life. The tone should be witty, but never offensive, and should always end on a concilliatory note.

Response
The turn of the lasses to detail men's foibles. Again, should be humorous but not insulting.

Poem and Songs
Once the speeches are complete the evening continues with songs and poems. These should be a good variety to fully show the different moods of Burns muse. Favourites for recitations are Tam O' Shanter, Address to the Unco Guid, To A Mouse and Holy Willie's Prayer.

The evening will culminate with the company standing, linking hands and singing Auld Lang Syne to conclude the programme