Ready. Set. Dance Scottish!

After lengthy lockdowns and pandemic restrictions in many places, indoor classes and events recently returned across Scotland and the rest of the UK. Now the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society wants to encourage new people to get up and give it a go.

Scottish country dancing is great for people all ages and backgrounds because:

• It’s fun and good for your physical and mental health.
• It’s a social activity that helps you to make friends in your area.
• It’s Scottish dance and music - steeped in Scotland’s culture and heritage.

It’s very easy for newcomers to get started. You don’t need any experience, you don’t need special equipment, you don’t need to have a partner – and you certainly don’t need to be Scottish!

If you are completely new to Scottish country dancing, don’t be nervous. You can visit your nearest Branch of the RSCDS to get a taste of what it’s all about. It’s easy to find one using our Branch and Group Finder.

Our website also has a beginner’s guide to Scottish country dancing, with answers to all your questions. And you can start to build up your fitness levels before you start with our online classes.

The RSCDS is also encouraging Branches and Groups to reach out to new dancers. We have information and tips for Branches and members on how to spread the word in their communities.

Lorna Ogilvie, Chair of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society (RSCDS) said “Scottish country dancing is enjoyed by thousands of people in Scotland and in countries all around the world and we’d love to see more people joining our family of dancers.  It’s a wonderful way for people of all ages and backgrounds to have fun, stay fit and make friends and we hope to see more people on the dancefloor.”

If you’ve never tried Scottish country dancing and are still a little unsure, listen to some of our RSCDS members. 

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.” Louise Msika of Aberdeen Branch said she loves “the buzz of a floor full of dancers”.