Highland dancing display
The top end of Trafalgar Street will resonate with the sound of bagpipes on Saturday when Nelson’s highland dancers take to the stage in a celebration of their sport.
The Nelson Highland Dancing Organisation is holding a demonstration morning at 1903 Square from 10am.
The public will get the chance to enjoy the flourish of the Highland Fling, precision of the Sword Dance, technical skill of the Sailor’s Hornpipe and the fun of an Irish Jig.
NHDO President Helen Gilchrist said traditionally formal highland dancing competitions were held indoors in halls or at A & P shows.
‘‘This time we’ve decided to break the mould, remove the competitive element and take dancing to the streets with our demonstration day.
‘‘It gives new dancers, some as young as four years old who have never formally been on stage before, an opportunity to get the feel of performing without the pressure of being judged,’’ Gilchrist said.
‘‘On the other hand, it provides a platform for older more experienced dancers who love to show the skill and precision it takes to be a top dancer, an opportunity to do so in a relaxed and fun setting.
‘‘Highland dancing is undergoing a renaissance across the Nelson region with growing numbers taking up the sport and Saturday’s designed to showcase this.’’