The reel thing is coming back as dancing indoors returns in the UK
At long last - we’re back to the reel thing! Scottish Country Dancing is returning with a spring in its step after pandemic restrictions shut down most activities in Scotland and the rest of the UK for well over a year.
To mark a return to something approaching normality, the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society is launching the Back to Dance campaign to tell you, our members, that full dancing indoors is making a comeback and to encourage new people to give it a go.
“Have fun, stay fit and make friends” is the message as RSCDS branches and affiliated groups begin to hold classes and events again.
“This is a moment that dancers have waited a long, long time to see,” said Lorna Ogilive, Chair of the RSCDS. “We can’t wait to get back to doing what we love most - dancing to great music and seeing our friends.”
The Back to Dance campaign comes after the success of our Virtual Summer School, featuring the best Scottish Country Dance teachers and musicians from across the world. This follows new guidance that allows the reopening of in-person classes and events. The Back To Dance campaign will give branches, affiliated groups, members and would-be dancers all the information they need about what to expect, as well as helpful advice on how to spread the word in your communities.
- See our Back to Dance campaign page. (LINK)
We know you’re excited about getting back on to the dance floor - because hundreds of you responded when we asked why you love to dance.
Ruth Beattie of Glasgow Branch said: “I love to dance because it gives me huge joy and is wonderful exercise.” Jan Collings, a member of both London and Oxford Branches, said: “It makes me feel alive, fit and happy.”
Forres member Mark Nash added: “I love to dance because I get transported to a different place, lose any worries I may have and enjoy the company of others in the spirit of fun, fitness and friendship.” Sue Davis of Rugby, Warwickshire, summed up a lot of your comments when she said simply: “Scottish Country Dancing feeds my soul.”
When we asked what you are most looking forward to as full dancing returns, Louise Msika of Aberdeen Branch replied: “The buzz of a floor full of dancers.” Ruth Bizley, from Chard, Somerset, said: “Dancing with real people, rather than on my own in the spare bedroom.”
Some branches managed to do a little dancing during lockdown restrictions by being creative. John Aitken, of Nottingham Branch, said: "Knowing how much many of the members were missing the dancing, we tried to find safe ways to enjoy the activity and music while still following the guidelines.” He said that included “hands-free dancing, chasing instead of circling, trying batons for distancing - all inside wearing face coverings - and using golf umbrellas for distancing outside”.
