Welcome to the world of Scottish country dance – where history meets hilarity, tradition meets twist, and footwork meets fun!
Discover the origins, evolution, and competitive spirit behind these dances that have been captivating audiences for centuries. So, grab your kilts and get ready to reel in the good times!
History and Evolution
Scottish country dances as they are danced today trace their roots back to the 17th century. They have preserved the patterns of folk dances, blending them with the typical foot positions of classical ballet.
These dances spread to France and to places with significant Scottish immigration. They are divided into competitive dances, which are skill-based dances practiced in competitions, and social dances, which are practiced during Ceilidh dances.
Scottish Country Dance
The Scottish country dances originated from English Country Dances of the 17th century, evolving from the dances that John Playford referred to as "longways as many as will." These were long lines of couples where all the gentlemen, aligned with the first in line, faced their respective ladies.
The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society (RSCDS) standardized these dances, aiming to preserve and defend these social dances. The dances include formations in sets, with four adjacent couples arranged in two lines, such as square set (quadrato) and longways set. A distinctive feature of Scottish Country Dances is the progression of couples, where after a sequence of figures, the dancing couple exchanges places with the adjacent couple, fostering social interaction.
Competition Dances
In Scotland, numerous Clan gatherings are held annually, featuring competitive dances, bagpipe competitions, Celtic strength contests, traditional music, crafts, and local cuisine. These events attract tourists from around the world, especially descendants of Scottish emigrants. The Clan gatherings showcase tartans of various colors in pavilions.
Highland Dance
The Highland dance, now a solo dance with 4 to 6 steps performed at Highland Games competitions, involves intricate footwork with codified arm gestures and hand claps, distinguishing it from Irish step dance. The steps have been standardized by the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing (SOBHD), and the dancers typically wear kilts accompanied by traditional bagpipe music.
Various Highland Dance Styles
The Highland Fling involves dancing on a small round shield, showcasing agility to avoid falling on the spike in the middle. The Blade Dance, traced back to the 1500s, symbolizes triumph and tradition among Highland fighters.
Seann Triubhas, translating to "Old Trousers," celebrates the repeal of the ban on wearing kilts, while the Highland Reel, a group dance, originated from Highland Tulloch parishioners warming up while awaiting the priest's arrival.
These traditional Scottish dances embody a rich cultural heritage, combining history, music, and physicality in a unique and captivating art form.
