Dancers of all abilities are welcome! What is Scottish Country Dancing? Scottish Country Dancing, the social dancing of Scotland, has been enjoyed in the barns, ballrooms and village halls of Scotland for at least 250 years! The rhythm of lively jigs and reels sets the toes tapping; the haunting airs and strathspeys, unique to Scottish music, bring grace and elegance to the dance floor. You don't have to be Scottish to join in the pleasure of Scottish Country Dancing. The dances are so much fun to do that they have attracted a much wider following than the original ethnic Scots, who are often in the minority in many branches in Canada. You don't have to come dancing with a partner. Dance sets are made up of at least 6 people and change after each dance, so few participants sit on the sidelines just watching. You don't have to wear the kilt, gentlemen, but you'll probably want to! Slacks and soft shoes can replace the kilt and ghillies. The ladies also need soft shoes and comfortable clothing, a skirt or dress is preferable but not necessary, for classes and dances. Shorts and slacks are fine for all for Dancing in the Park in June. Although we are part of an international society, the St. Catharines Branch of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society consists of a group of local people who get together every week for dancing and fellowship. Some of our Branch members have been dancing for 50 years, and others started just last week. We welcome new members! Our basic class for new dancers and a class for more advanced dancers meet every Tuesday evening, September until mid May, Robertson Hall, Folk Arts Centre, 85 Church St., St. Catharines from 7:45 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., from mid-September to mid-May. So come and join us in the "darling diversion" of Queen Victoria and you will soon be dancing on your toes instead of just tapping them!
