The Oregon Rant

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

Strathspey
1- 8 1s+3s also 2s+4s dance R&L (2s+4s begin by changing with partner on sides)
9-16 1s+3s cross LH and dance out sides (1M+3L dance between 4s cast to opposite places as 1L+3M dance similarly between 2s to meet partners in prom hold and dance back to original places (Ladies passing RSh)
17-24 1s (prom hold) pass 2L RSh to dance reel of 3 with 2L+4M while 3s pass 4L RSh to dance reel of 3 across with 4L+2M and end in own places
25-32 1s and 3s Promenade clockwise around set while 2s and 4s advance, turn opposite person RH and dance RH across, all ending in original places in Ballroom hold with Men on outside facing in
33-40 All set Highland Schottische (Men starting on left foot) then turn partner 2H back to square formation
41-48 1s and 3s set advancing, turn opposite person 2H and open to face side couples, all circle 4H round to left
49-56 All dance 2 reels of 4 across set BUT each couple on reaching centre dance ½ LH across and continue reel in other line (1s+3s end facing sides)
57-64 All dance RH across on sides, 1s+3s LH across in centre and back to places

Jig
1-32 Repeat first 32 bars as above ending in Ballroom hold with Men on outside facing in
33-40 All slip step (to Men's left) for 2 bars, slip step back (2 bars) and polka anticlockwise 1 place
41-48 Repeat
49-56 Repeat
57-64 Repeat

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

Dance Information

Bordered by Washington to the north, Idaho to the east, California to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west, Oregon encompasses an area of approximately 98,000 square miles. The state's diverse topography includes coastal regions, mountainous terrain, fertile valleys, and expansive high deserts.

The Pacific coastline of Oregon extends over 360 miles, characterised by rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and maritime reserves. Noteworthy geological features include the Cascade Range, a volcanic mountain range spanning from northern California through Oregon and Washington. This range encompasses prominent peaks, including Mount Hood, a famous stratovolcano.

Portland, the largest city in Oregon, is situated in the Willamette Valley. Renowned for its cultural vitality, Portland serves as a key economic and cultural hub.

The eastern part of Oregon is marked by high desert landscapes and the Cascade Range. Notable natural landmarks in this region include Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, formed within the caldera of Mount Mazama. The state's varied geography influences its climate, with the western portion experiencing a marine climate, while the east exhibits semi-arid conditions.

Economically, Oregon's key sectors include technology, forestry, agriculture, and tourism. Portland, in particular, has evolved as a technology and innovation centre. The state's commitment to environmental conservation is evident through policies promoting renewable energy sources and ecological preservation.

Mount Hood, Oregon, United States

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