The Highland dance originates in the Scottish Highlands from the 19th and the 20th centuries. Highland dancing is a solo dance that’s performed during competitive public events. Many Highland dancers are performing at the traditional Scottish Highland games.
The Highland dance originally created from Gaelic folk dance and became more formal with the help of ballet, dancing on the balls of your feet, and is a form of solo step dance. There are also many other influences outside of the Scottish Highlands.
Traditional Highland dancers wear shoes called ghillies and is typically performed with Scottish bagpipe music.
There are other dances within Scotland, such as the Scottish country dance, and should not be confused with other similar dances, such as Irish step dance, clog dancing or cèilidh dancing, which similarly performed in many different social events.
To be competitive with Highland dancing, you require a good level of technique, but also strength and stamina. Believe it or not, Highland dancing is recognised by the sports Council Scotland.
Ireland dance isn’t as mainstream as the more common Latin dances such as tango or salsa, or even ballroom, but is a dance that is extremely enjoyable, great for fitness and be a great family dance at any social event.