Fiddler On The Capstan

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1s+3s ½ turn partners RH and dance RH across ½ way, 3s and 1s turn partners RH. 321
9-16 2s dance RSh reels of 3 on own sides with 3s+1s (2L up and 2M down)
17-20 2s petronella turn into middle and set as 3M+1M also 3L+1L ½ turn RH and dance ½ RH across to end in lines across
21-24 All turn opposite person RH once round and 2s end facing 3rd corner (positions)
25-32 2s dance ½ diagonal reels of 4 with 3rd corner (positions) then with 4th corner (positions) and 2s end in 2nd place own side. 123
33-40 1s+2s ½ turn partners RH and dance RH across ½ way, 2s turn partners RH
41-48 2s+1s+3s circle 6H round and back

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams

Fiddler On The Capstan - Full Size And Key To Symbols

Dance Information

A capstan is a rotating machine used to apply force to ropes, cables, and hawsers, commonly, though not exclusively, in a maritime setting.

Illustration Of Crew And Passengers Working At Capstan On East India Company Ship, From The Quid 1832

OK - It's Not Actually A Fiddler, But You Get The Idea.
An Original Print Of Seamen Working At A Capstan In The Nineteenth Century

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