A Brief History of Highland Dancing

Scotish Highland Dance dates back to the military traditions in Scotland as early as 1054, and is an extremely physical style of dance which was once performed only by men in the early centuries.  In these times, Highland Dance was incorporated into military training for soldiers as a way to improve stamina, agility, and discipline.  Due to the fact that most early information regarding the beginings of this dance form has been lost, there are many stories and myths that have been passed down through generations to explain the significance of the movements and steps.

Highland Dance is highly competitive today and dominated by women, and focuses on technique, strenght, flexibility, and presentation.  There is a training process involded, starting from a young age and development of the dance evolves over years of instruction and practice.  There are over 20 dances, including the Irish Jig, Sailor's Hornpipe, and the Cakewalk.  The studentsprogress through levels learining more complicated steps, rhythms and dances with time and experience.

With long standing traditions, and a true strength within the Maritime cultural communities, Highland Dance will continue only through instruction and performance.  It is truly unique in form, and one of the toughest styles of dance to master.  It is definitely

"Survival of the Fittest"