Highland Dancing
Highland Dancing is a form of solo dance which was first seen in the Scottish highlands, around the time that Irish settlers arrived in the region. In fact, it is a close relation of Gaelic dancing, a traditional Irish dance. Highland Dancing is performed to music played with bagpipes, a traditional Scottish musical instrument.
Highland Dancing is one of a number of old British traditions that survive to this day. Highland Dancing has a lot in common with English traditions, such as gurning. Gurning is a facial expression contest, which is held along with other traditional English games at village fairs. Similarly, in Scotland, Highland Dancing is performed at Highland games contests.
Highland dancers are very skilled and spend many hours perfecting their dance. In fact, Highland Dancing has sometimes been compared to ballet. Highland Dancing is officially regarded as a sport in Scotland, and Highland dancers are often some of the strongest athletes in the country.
Highland Dancing should not be confused with other Scottish dances, such as Scottish country dancing. This dance is performed in a pair or a group, and is more important in a social regard. Highland Dancing is an individual pursuit.
The website at hardgurningnrg.co.uk is an important resource for anyone researching British traditions such as gurning, or even Highland Dancing. The topic is fascinating in that many of these traditions show no sign of dying out, and if anything, they are increasing in popularity.