Highland Dancing

Ardlair School of Dancing, a Jazz Dance club in City of Mount Gambier, is excited to promote a local Jazz Dance event. Highland Dancing, a style of dance that has deep roots in Scottish tradition but remains relevant today, will be showcased at this event. The dance form combines the elegance and precision of ballet with unique Scottish influences.

At Ardlair, the technique taught follows the international standards set by the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing (SOBHD), with administration in Australia falling under the Australian Board of Highland Dancing Inc (ABHDI) and support in South Australia provided by the South Australian State Committee of Highland Dancing Inc (SASCHDI). Both male and female dancers participate in Highland Dancing, showcasing their technical prowess, power, control, and agility in a modest and classic attire.

Achievement in Highland Dancing is based on hard work and dedication to perfecting the technique outlined in officially recognised textbooks, which are taught by qualified instructors. Adjudication is carried out by professionally examined judges.

Ardlair recognises the transformative effect that Highland Dancing can have on individuals and offers opportunities to learn and grow in both competitive and recreational environments. In the competitive stream, dancers can develop the necessary skills to succeed at local and regional events, with additional support and guidance for those aiming for national and international success. To make competitive dancing accessible to new dancers, Ardlair offers a high-quality costume hire service.

For those interested in pursuing competitive Highland Dancing further, costumes are often purchased from renowned costume makers such as Piob Mhor or Bonnie Tartan in Scotland, or Tartantown or Highland in Style in Canada.

Recreational classes are also available for dancers who wish to learn Highland dancing skills and basic techniques for performing in local community events. Regardless of the chosen path, Ardlair strives to provide a creative and supportive journey for every dancer, empowering them to use their Highland Dancing experience as a stepping stone towards a positive and fulfilling life.

For additional information on Highland dancing, please contact the South Australian State Committee of Highland Dancing Inc, the Australian Board of Highland Dancing Inc, or the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing Inc.