The Bermuda National Trust is hosting a pair of events to highlight the history of dance on the island.

This Sunday the BNT will be holding an in-depth discussion at Verdmont, led by Gary Phillips, about the evolution of the Bermuda Gombey as part of the Bermuda Gombey Festival.

During the event Mr Phillips, the chairman of the Bermuda National Gallery, will interview leaders of the island’s Gombey troupes about the history of the Gombey, the signs and symbols used by the troupes and what it means to be a Gombey now.

Meanwhile next Thursday, October 12, the BNT will host another event at the trust’s Waterville headquarters featuring dancer and choreographer Conchita Ming, who this year published Dance Bermuda, a book detailing the long history of dance on the island.

In her presentation, Mrs Ming will discuss the contents of the book, detailing the evolution of dance from colonial-era dance classes to modern dance.

Sunday’s discussion on Gombeys is set to begin at 1.30pm, with tickets costing $20 for BNT members, $25 for non-members and $10 for those under the age of 18.

Meanwhile next Thursday’s talk by Mrs Ming will begin at 6pm, with tickets costing $45 with a portion of proceeds going towards the trust. Copies of Dance Bermuda will be available for purchase.

Tickets for both events can be bought online at the BNT website, www.bnt.com.