Kyla Groeschel's School of Highland Dance
History of Dances
The Character Dances
The Irish Jig is a fun, energetic dance in which the dancer shakes her fist, stomps and intentionally appears to be angry. There are many versions of the story behind the dancers' feigned ire; some say she's an Irish washerwoman threatening some young boys who splattered mud on her clean laundry, while others say she's demonstrating how she'll give a piece of her mind when her tardy husband returns from the pub.
The Sailor's Hornpipe is a popular character dance based on the shipboard activities of a historical British sailor -- including climbing the rigging, hauling in ropes, gazing out to sea and perhaps having a wee bit too much grog. Dancers can choose from among a number of approved steps, so when performed in competition, several dancers may be doing different steps at the same time.
