Highland Dance Events
The Scottish Highland dances have roots that reach back centuries. Many of the dances originated from wartime dances that showed physical prowess, stamina, and agility. The dances may have been used as a form of training, as a way to prepare for battle, or as a celebration of a victory. Many of the dances that are performed today have evolved over the years and have been standardized and shaped by organized competitions.
Traditionally the Scottish Highland dances were only performed by men. Women began competing in these events about a hundred years ago and in many competitions today far out number the men.
The dancers are judged based on three criteria. They are judged on timing which refers to their ability to follow the beat and rhythm of the music. They are judged on their technique which involves the correct execution of the dance steps. And they are judged on their general deportment which covers their overall appearance while dancing and their interpretation of the dance steps.
The Highland Fling
The highland fling is one of the most recognized of the Scottish Highland dances. It is thought that the dance originated as a victory dance in which the warriors displayed their strength and agility. Another suggested origin claims that the dance is a representation of a prancing stag.
The Sword Dance
In the sword dance the competitor dances over two crossed swords. This dance was used as a victory dance after battle as well as a dance in preparation for battle. As the warrior danced over the crossed swords he would be protected in battle if he did not touch either sword during the dance. If he did touch the swords then it was considered a bad omen which indicated death or injury.
The Seann Triubhas
The Seann Triubhas pronounced "shawn truce" means the "old trousers" in Gaelic. This dance has its roots in the law that prohibited the wearing of the kilt after the 1745 rebellion. The dance depicts the restrictive nature of wearing trousers and then the joyful freedom once the kilt was worn again.
The Irish Jig
The Scottish version of the Irish Jig follows the same steps but with exaggerated and humorous hand movements. The dance is meant to be a parody of an angry old washerwoman.
The Sailor's Hornpipe
The sailor's hornpipe had its origins, as its name suggests, with the sailors around the British Isles. The hornpipe was an instrument that was common at the time and was made out of bone or horn and was similar to today's tin whistle. The dance, as performed today, depicts many of the common activities that a sailor would have performed on a ship.
Pas de Basque and Highcuts
This dance is a beginners dance and is the same as the first step of the Sword Dance but is danced without swords. The dance is usually taught to novice dancers before they are ready to learn the entire Sword Dance.
Scottish Lilt & Flora MacDonald's Fancy
These dances are known as Scottish National dances and have a more recent history. They were originally introduced so that women could compete. They have a more rhythmic nature than the traditional Scottish dances.
