Below are the questions that we are regularly asked. If you still have further questions, please contact us by clicking here
Scottish country dancing, often abbreviated to SCD, is a form of social dance that involves couples in groups called sets. The couples typically stand facing each other in lines and trace progressive patterns that differ from dance to dance. The figures are repeated by each couple in turn. There are fast dances (hornpipes, jigs, and reels), and slow dances (strathspeys). Want to see Scottish dancers in action? Click here
No, SCD can include features of highland dancing, but it differs from true Scottish highland dancing in that it is social dancing, not a performance art or a sport.
Originally the word Ceilidh (kay-lee) descended from the Gaelic word for 'gathering' or 'party'. Ceilidh or Barn Dances tend to be ones that everyone can take part, young or old, experienced dancers to beginners and even those with two left feet! We usually start our evening with a ceilidh dance to warm up.
The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society, or RSCDS, is a worldwide organization with some 20,000 members. It is administered from the Headquarters in Edinburgh through a network of 170 branches and around 400 affiliated groups all over the world. The Society works to preserve old and new Scottish country dances and trains teachers in a rigorous program for certification. In 1923, Jean Milligan and Ysobel Stewart co-founded the Scottish Country Dance Society, resolving to restore the practice of the old social dances of Scotland and with them their music. The title "Royal" was conferred upon the Society in 1951 by King George VI.
SCD is very sociable - it is standard practice to dance with different partners. Thanks to the RSCDS, Scottish country dancing is sufficiently standardised that a traveling dancer can pack dance shoes and be welcomed almost anywhere in the world.
Most of the branches and affiliated groups of the RSCDS offer regular classes for dancers at all levels, including beginners. Check our links page for information about dance opportunities in this area.
No, that's not necessary. Singles are welcome. And even if you do come with a partner you'll dance with many others. Dances are social occasions, and by changing partners you'll meet lots of new people. It's just as likely that a woman will ask a man, or another woman, to dance as the man will invite a woman to be his partner.
For classes, everyday clothes are fine. Women often wear skirts that are comfortable and full. The men wear casual trousers or kilts.
The most important article of clothing is shoes, for both comfort and style. The traditional shoes for Scottish dancing are ghillies, soft-soled leather shoes that are tightly laced for support. Ballet slippers are also popular with women. For beginners, however, any soft-soled shoes without heels will do, to protect the dance floor.
No, in fact at the Leamington Branch we have very few members who were actually born in Scotland.
Again the answer is no. Dancers at the Branch have ranged in age from their teens to their nineties, and everything in between. Dancers of all ages can enjoy Scottish country dancing for the grace of the figures, the rousing music, the exercise, and the camaraderie. Come and dance with us!