Many elements of Scottish culture came with Scottish immigrants to Cape Breton; particularly Scottish dancing. Square dancing began to develop in Cape Breton around the turn of the 20th century as a Scottish dance, which incorporated step dancing into a set with four couples. It is not known how this evolved. Some believe it was originally a form of the older Scottish dances such as the “Scotch Four” or the eight-hand reel, because many of the movements and the incorporation of step dancing can be traced back to the 16th century in Scotland. Others say it was introduced by the Acadians.

There are many variations of Cape Breton square dancing. In some communities there are 4 figures in the square sets instead of 3, or there are 2 reel figures and 1 jig instead of 2 jigs and 1 reel figure. Often, the styles are named after the community in which they are practiced.

Cape Breton step dancing is not a competitive form of dance, and allows for more individuality of style. The shoes worn are traditional hard soled shoes without taps. Cape Breton dancing has little upper body movement. Movement is usually from the knees down while the dancer looks straight ahead, and dances on beat in one spot.

Mary Janet MacDonald is a noted teacher of Cape Breton style step dancing. Starting at the age of three, she has travelled the globe teaching her craft.

Every Thursday evening throughout the summer months, and Sunday evenings on long weekends, the Glencoe Mills weekly dance is held. A big hit with old and young, everyone is welcome to come and learn Mabou ¹ style square dancing.

Hours:
10:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Thursdays in July and August

For more information:
Contact: Elizabeth Beaton
Glencoe Mills, NS, B0E 1X0
Phone: (902) 945-2647

For more information on all the many weekly square dances and ceilidhs consistently held in Inverness County, Cape Breton:
Contact: Inverness Recreation Department
Phone: (902) 787-3507
Email: donna@invernessco.com

¹ Mabou style differs from other styles in that the first two figures are jigs and the third figure is a reel, and there are four couples to each set.