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Scottish immigrants are responsible for bringing step dancing to North America. The traditional art form continues to thrive today on Cape Breton Island. Cape Breton Island step dancing is unique and should not be confused with other forms of step dancing that is taught in other parts of Canada.

One primary difference is that Cape Breton dancing is not competitive. Other types such as the Celtic, Irish or Scottish forms almost always involve competition. There is also no specific uniform or costume to wear while performing the dance. The dancers do wear hard soled shoes in order to make noise on flood. Dancers sometimes use tap shoes, however many purists frown on this practice.

The focus of the dance should be on the feet, but posture and technique are very important. Hands and shoulders should be back and in place, just like in other forms of step dancing. One big difference is that there is no high kicking.

Step dancing happens in two different formations. The first is performance, where a step dancer or multiple dancers, dance to strath-spey and reel tunes, in front of an audience. Step dancers don't learn specific dances, they learn steps, which they then arrange in any order they prefer. The second place you will see Cape Breton step dancing is in square sets. Square dancing in Cape Breton includes jig and reel steps. Square dances are generally very more lively of the two forms, more fun to watch.

Jig steps are used during the first and second figures of a square set.

Strath-spey steps are used in the first tunes played for step-dancers who are performing at a ceilidh or Cape Breton Scottish festival. These steps are slow as compared to reel steps, but allow for more intricate movements.

Reel Steps: The fiddler plays fluidly, switching from strath-speys to reels. The step-dancer listens for the change in the tempo and immediately jumps into reel steps.

If you're interested in learning step dancing, classes are given at community centers and church halls throughout Cape Breton. Ask your travel agent for information.

by: Richard Verkley

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