Probably the most extreme, physically tiring form of dancing in the world. Either competed or performed, highland dancing is both mentally and physically
exhausting. Dancers hop on
one foot, performing a variety of difficult
dance moves, sometimes including leaps in the air, dancing over crossed swords, and other such challenges. Dancers compete the highland dances in kilts and jackets and/or vests, and perform
the national dances in the aboyne costume. A white or blue sailor's costume is worn for the Sailor's Hornpipe. More liberties are taken with the outfit for the Scottish Jig.
All the dances are performed wearing the soft shoe ghillie, similar to
the ballet slipper.The one exception is the Scottish Jig; it is performed in hard heeled shoes with metal attached the the bottom of the heel that make clacking noises.
The dances include the:
Fling
Sword
Seann Truibhas
Strathspey and Highland Reel
Strathspey and Half Tulloch
Strathspey, Highland Reel and Half Tulloch
Full Tulloch
Tullochan
Barracks Johnny
Laddie
Jig
Hornpipe
Lilt
Flora
Blue Bonnets
Village Maid
Scotch Measure
Earl of Errol
Etc.
