People of Scottish ancestry should be in a dancing, singing mood this week, with Robbie Burns Day celebrated Wednesday (Jan. 25).

Some 26 years ago, one of Burns' more famous poems helped inspire a group in South Surrey/White Rock to become the Tam O'Shanter Dancers. Today, they rehearse weekly for a couple dozen performances every year - at parades, community events, seniors' residences, weddings and more.

The group's 18th annual Robbie Burns Dinner/Dance event happens this Saturday, Jan. 28 at Star of the Sea hall in White Rock. (call 604-536-7660 for details, or visit tamoshanterdancers.com).

"It's a big event for about 300 people every year - very popular," group member Cheryl Jorgensen said. "It's a way to promote Scottish culture, and a lot of fun, too."

As a way to draw new members to the group, drop-in Scottish dance lessons are held Wednesdays from 7 to 10 p.m. at Sullivan Hall, 6306 152nd St., Surrey.

Tam O'Shanter Dancers have travelled internationally since forming in 1986; this coming April, Cuba is on their calendar for performances at a Celtic festival in Havana.

"That should be interesting," said Maureen Lyon, the group's instructor and co-founder.

"We're going, but we're not exactly sure what we're getting into (in Cuba)."

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