Highland Exams

Just by the title, you would think that this is a test like in old school days. I promise it isn’t though and is actually a super cool event! For those who don’t know what Highland is, besides being a city in Utah, Highland is actually very similar to Scottish dance, but is specific to certain types of dancing such as the fling dance and the sword dance.

You don’t have to be a dancer to participate or watch though! This event is completely free and open to anyone to watch or participate. Highland Exams took place at a school in Salt Lake City. A judge flew in from Texas to come and watch highland dancers, as well as teach anyone who wanted to learn the fling! In a way, it is similar to a master class at a dance company or a dance studio.

The dancers performed the fling, sword, and lilt dances. Spectators were able to watch them in full costume and help cheer them on. Little kids, around 3 years old, all the way up into late 40s and 50s performed duets of the dances and the judge would critique them on their technique and abilities. Some dancers who perform in the top areas, get medals and wear them at the highland ceremony at the end of the exams. Others, get to help teach everyone in the audience how to dance fling and how to feel like a highland dancer for the day!

Being a dancer, I got the chance to perform, but I also loved helping teach the audience the dance too.

The fling dance is very similar to ballet, where its graceful, has some turns like pirouettes in it, and has pointed toes. There are four main steps to it, along with a beginning and ending bow. The dance is one of the most fun ones to learn because it is the easiest and if you mess up or forget, just turning and pointing your foot is right 75% of the time.

It is also really fun to watch the sword dance. This dance actually involves swords and dancers actually dance around and in between the swords! It is very difficult and face paced, but this makes it amazing to watch!

The sword dance has all dancers in gillies (similar to ballet slippers but for Scottish and highland dancers), a kilt, a vest, and long socks! It is a very traditional costume that is performed in a traditional dance. First, the dancers dance around the sword with high jumps and balances. Then, they dance between the two criss-crossed swords and point their toes while turning. Lastly, the jump between the swords. Each step gets harder and harder, but looks cooler and cooler. The tempo also picks up a lot and makes the dancers dance faster! The audience didn’t learn this one because it can be dangerous and hurt if you land on sword. The very last dance for beginners, is the lilt. If you have ever watched ballet, this dance is just like that. The costume is a beautiful white dress with a kilt like pattern draped over your shoulder.

Make sure to come next year to exams as they are yearly in Salt Lake City!