Frequently Asked Questions
What should my dancer wear?
At lessons, dancers should wear shorts, a tight-fitting t-shirt or bodysuit, and knee-high socks, if requested by the teacher. Beginning dancers can wear black dance slippers (available at large stores such as Wal-Mart). More advanced dancers should wear ghillies (highland dance shoes,) which are available at various retailers online (for example, Tartantown) and at dance competitions.
Dress for performance or competition varies according to what dance is being performed and what level the dancer is at. The dancer's teacher will be able to provide guidance with this.
Does this count as exercise?
You bet! Highland dance is an aerobic exercise. Lessons vary in pace, but the intensity increases as dancers become more experienced and push themselves harder.
How can I learn more about competitions?
ScotDance Canada and ScotDance Saskatchewan are good places to start - both websites maintain an event listing for competitions and championships. Your dance teacher can also answer any questions you have about when to start competing and what to expect.
How old is too young to start lessons? How old is too old to start?
Dancers can begin lessons at 3 years old and should be able to follow simple instructions and stay (somewhat) attentive for a 30-minute period.
You're never too old to start! Once registrations are received, the Association looks at the ages and levels of the registered dancers and creates classes that will best meet the needs of the dancers. If older beginner dancers progress quickly, they may be asked to change classes during the year to better continue development.
At lessons, dancers should wear shorts, a tight-fitting t-shirt or bodysuit, and knee-high socks, if requested by the teacher. Beginning dancers can wear black dance slippers (available at large stores such as Wal-Mart). More advanced dancers should wear ghillies (highland dance shoes,) which are available at various retailers online (for example, Tartantown) and at dance competitions.
Dress for performance or competition varies according to what dance is being performed and what level the dancer is at. The dancer's teacher will be able to provide guidance with this.
Does this count as exercise?
You bet! Highland dance is an aerobic exercise. Lessons vary in pace, but the intensity increases as dancers become more experienced and push themselves harder.
How can I learn more about competitions?
ScotDance Canada and ScotDance Saskatchewan are good places to start - both websites maintain an event listing for competitions and championships. Your dance teacher can also answer any questions you have about when to start competing and what to expect.
How old is too young to start lessons? How old is too old to start?
Dancers can begin lessons at 3 years old and should be able to follow simple instructions and stay (somewhat) attentive for a 30-minute period.
You're never too old to start! Once registrations are received, the Association looks at the ages and levels of the registered dancers and creates classes that will best meet the needs of the dancers. If older beginner dancers progress quickly, they may be asked to change classes during the year to better continue development.