Overview

Why do millions of people around the world love Scottish dancing? What makes it so special? Heel for Heel is a joyful celebration of all the genres from the centuries-old Highland Dancing to the evolving reels, Scottish Country Dancing, ceilidhs and Step Dance that spread throughout Scotland and beyond. The story mirrors the delight of the guests at ‘Mairi’s Wedding’ going ‘heel for heel’, whether in a boisterous jig or a graceful Strathspey. Cindy Gray, a keen dancer herself, invites you to discover the universal appeal of Scottish dance. She tells the story of Scottish dance through the stories of fellow enthusiasts including Scots at exuberant ceilidhs, Samburu tribesmen learning a giddy ‘Eightsome Reel’, Canadian children immaculately dressed for ‘The Sword Dance’ and reelers at glittering balls in Venice, Oman and India. Her amusing anecdotes and illuminating reflections are enhanced by vibrant photographs. This book is a MUST for anyone who enjoys Scottish dancing – or who fancies they might – and for everyone drawn to stepping out gaily, ‘heel for heel and toe for toe’!

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9781804252543

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CINDY GRAY divides her time between London and Hampshire, where she lives on the coast. There she sails a dinghy and swims in the sea, often accompanied by her daughter and the family Sprocker Spaniel. She also skis, plays tennis, climbs mountains, sings in choirs, acts in plays and goes Scottish dancing wherever there are classes and dances taking place. She isn’t remotely Scottish but loves Scotland and its dancing. Her late husband, Charles, a high court judge, did not share her enthusiasm for Scottish dancing, deeming it to be ‘a loathsome activity’! Cindy, by contrast, finds it hugely entertaining. An extrovert by nature, she likes the convivial nature of dancing and employed her skills as a former reporter for BBC Radio to interview fellow dancers whose comments are captured in this book. After graduating in English at Oxford University, Cindy went on to write travel articles in tandem with her career in broadcasting (under her maiden name, Selby). Heel for Heel is her first foray as an author.

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