Update

Trad Dance was recently featured in the news! The Victoria Standard, Baddeck’s local newspaper, featured a group of residents taking square-dancing lessons under the watchful eye of instructor Anna MacDonald.

Click here to view the front page feature!

Cape Breton Dancing

The laid-back, relaxed but intricate form of dance present in Cape Breton culture has vanished in Scotland, the country of its origin. Traditional step-dancing and square dancing were brought to Cape Breton along with the music, songs and language of the Scots.

Both step-dancing and square dancing are thriving in Cape Breton today, and younger generations are continually being exposed to these traditions.

Cape Breton step-dancing is a completely unique form of dance as it is non-competitive, social and laid-back. Each dancer displays his/her own unique style, often dancing spontaneously to the music. Because of this, it is absolutely necessary to be very familiar and comfortable with traditional dance music. A dancer’s timing is of utmost importance; the dancer must always dance to the music.

Step-dancing is most often done to traditional Cape Breton fiddle music; however, one may dance to a variety of other instruments. Piano, bagpipes and even “puirt a beul” (Gaelic mouth music) may also be danced to.

Click here for more information about Cape Breton Celtic music.

Lessons

Both group and private lessons are available for traditional Cape Breton step-dancing. Group lessons are available for square dancing. The lessons can be designed to teach visitors to Cape Breton the basic steps to take home with you.

Also for those wanting to become more proficient and comfortable with Cape Breton music and dance, regularly scheduled lessons are available. TradDance will also offer demonstrations and basic informational sessions to those that are interested.

Please contact us if you are either visiting Cape Breton Island, or are a local who is interested in learning the traditional dances of Cape Breton.