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Highland dancing in its modern form, is an athletic often competitive, Scottish style of solo dancing. Traditionally danced over crossed swords or on a battle shield, and typically performed to the accompaniment of bagpipe music.
Popularity
A traditionally Scottish dance, that has become popular in many countries around the world, especially so in the United States of America.
Location
is commonly demonstrated at Scottish events and ceremonies, and competitively competed at competitions held at public events, such as the Highland games.
Age
Although there are no official age restraints, Highland dance is physically an activity of the young. Children from the age of eight years are encouraged into the activity.
Ability
Highland dancing, is a highly competitive and technical dance form which requires many hours of practice and training over a period of several years to perfect. Technically Highland dancing has much in common with ballet.
Description
Dancers are judged on three criteria: timing, technique and deportment. TIMING; the ability of the dancer to follow the rhythm of the music. Dancers must place feet, arms and head in very precise position simultaneously with the music. TECHNIQUE; the correct execution of footwork in coordination with head, arm and hand movements, and 'Elevation' of movements. GENERAL DEPORTMENT; the interpretation the dancer displays in performing the dance, balance and general appearance.
Dedication
Highland dances are performed solo. They have precise difficult movements that require much stamina and coordination. During a performance it is important that no matter how difficult the dance really is, the dancer must display supple movement with effortlessness, pleasure, freedom from elaborate showiness, and an unhurried attitude. Highland Dances were originally danced by men only, but are now performed by far more females than males.
Closely
Related Activities
Highland dancing is a competitive event within the highland games 317. which should not be confused with Scottish dance which is a socially danced group activity, it has more in common with dances such as the Irish Jig or the Sailors Hornpipe.
Cost
Costs to be borne in mind associated with highland dancing are; Club or group subscriptions, tuition fees, Competition entrance fees and dress or costume purchases.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
|
Legs
|
Sight
|
Hearing
|
Speech |
Learning |
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