Highland dance is a traditional form of dance originating in Scotland. Today, most highland dancers are females but interestingly, it was once dominated by males. However, males are highly welcomed in the highland dance community.
Highland dance is unique. It is a sport since a dancer competes individually and trains like an athlete for stamina, strength, and flexibility. On the other hand, it incorporates art as creativity and presentation play a major role as well. Many dancers decide to compete as it gives them an opportunity to improve their technique. Although, dancers enjoy participating in non-competitive performances as well, often at concerts and events in their local community.
Stories regarding the origin of the dances have been passed down through many generations. Once, highland dance was used in Scottish military regiments to keep troops fit and prepared for battle. Since highland dance develops the functioning of fast-twitch muscles through quick elevation movements, soldiers excelled at skills such as sprinting. Today, highland dance is a top event at highland games throughout the world. In Nova Scotia, there are dance competitions and demonstration events held annually at the Colchester Highland Games, the Antigonish Highland Games, and the Festival of the Tartans in New Glasgow.
The “Highland” dances include the Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Seann Triubhas, and the Reel and are danced in the traditional kilt. On the other hand, the “Nationals” are dances including the Lilt, Flora, Scotch Measure, Earl of Errol, Blue Bonnets, Village Maid, Barracks, and Laddie. They are danced more gracefully, similar to ballet. A few other dances include The Cakewalk, Sailor’s Hornpipe, Irish Jig, and Choreography which give the dancer the opportunity to act and have fun with their interpretations. Finally, some lesser known dances include the Dusty Miller, Twasome, and Hebridean Laddie.
Parker School of Dance 