The course will introduce students to the historical and social background of formal dance repertoires in Edinburgh during the Scottish Enlightenment (from the end of the 17th – the beginning of the 19th century), as well as demonstrate some of the dance techniques used. Participants will learn about what was danced on the stages and in the ballrooms of the Scottish capital (and the identities of some of the city’s most famous dancers), as well as have the opportunity to try out some of these dances for themselves in a friendly and informal environment.

What to expect: The course consists of 5 sessions, each 2 hours long and held fortnightly. Each session will combine a theoretical overview and a practical dance element. The practical part of the session will start with a warm-up and finish with cool-down exercises to prevent the risk of injury. Course notes with brief information points and dance descriptions will be provided. Where appropriate, video recordings of some of the steps taught in class will be made available to enable further practice at home.