The Reels are the only ‘group’ dances performed by Highland Dancers, and there are 4 different variations: the Hullachan (Gaelic for “party”), Strathspey and Half Tulloch, Strathspey and Highland Reel, and Strathspey and Highland Reel and Half Tulloch. Four dancers, who are each judged separately in competitions, perform the Reels. In the Strathspey, the dancers begin in a line and travel in a ‘figure of eight.’ The faster Highland Reel (which uses the same Strathspey formation) or Tulloch (where dancers take turns dancing steps and turning with linked arms) follow the Strathspey. The origin of the Reel is thought to be from a Churchyard just outside of Ballater, Scotland. The story is thought to take place on a cold winter’s Sunday when a Minister was late for his service. In order to stay warm, the parishioners would clap their hands, stomp their feet, and dance together. Another version says the churchgoers would dance between the pews to stay warm while waiting for the service to start. |
The Church of Tullich in 2015. Ballater, Scotland