Traditional Cape Breton style step-dancing is alive and well on the island and is enjoyed regularly by young and old. The early styles of step-dance focused on solo dancing, but as time progressed, Cape Breton style square-dancing became a huge part of the tradition as well.
Today in Cape Breton, square dances are attended hugely for social purposes, but they certainly offer good workout at the same time! Best of all, you can jump right into the action and have fun as a novice. Here are some “dancing” options for you when you visit our fine Island:
The Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts offers step-dancing classes as part of their summer programs and workshops at various times throughout the year. Check their schedule for details: www.gaeliccollege.edu.
The Celtic Music Interpretive Centre offers workshops and demonstrations in Cape Breton step-dancing on a number of occasions throughout the year. Plus, their tour includes an interactive step-dance lesson. For more information: www.celticmusiccentre.com
During the Celtic Colours International Festival in October, workshops in traditional Cape Breton step-dancing and square dancing are typically offered at various locations. For complete details, check their schedule: http://www.celtic-colours.com
In August, Féis an Eilein includes a step-dancing workshop as part of their annual program. For more information, visit: www.feisaneilein.ca
The Highland Village/An Clachan Gaidhealach is host to one of the most enjoyabable and exciting square dances of the season during the first week of August each year. For more information, click here: http://highlandvillage.novascotia.ca
Inverness County offers a full schedule of square dances. The West Mabou Hall has a regular square dance on Saturday nights throughout the year. Glencoe Mills is a bundle of energy and the floor is full of square-sets on Thursday nights from June to August. From June to August, additional dances are held on Mondays in Brook Village, Tuesdays in Scotsville, Wednesdays at The Barn in Margaree Valley and Fridays in South West Margaree. For more information, visit: www.invernesscounty.ca
Besides these regular dances, impromptu dancing can happen in many other places, so watch for the opportunity to join in!
