The Ruby Wedding Strathspey

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1s cross down to dance mirror reels of 3 on opposite sides (3s in/up, 2s in/down). 2s end in 1st place, 1s in prom hold face 2M
9-12 1s (in prom hold) dance ½ diagonal RSh reel of 3 with 2M+3L. 1s end facing 2L
13-16 1s (in prom hold) dance ½ diagonal LSh reel of 3 with 2L+3M. 1s end in 2nd place nearer hands joined facing down
17-24 1s dance down, cast up round 3s to 2nd place opposite sides. 3s+1s+2s turn 2H 1½ finishing in centre, facing up, ready for...
25-32 3s+1s+2s dance Allemande

Note: At end of 2nd time, 1s end in 3rd place, 4s start reel from 4th place (dancing in/up) as original 1s step down

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

1 - 8 First couple cross down to dance reels of three with second and third couples on the opposite side. First couple finish in promenade hold facing second man while second couple finish in first place
9 - 12 First couple in promenade hold dance a half diagonal reel of three with second man and third lady, giving right shoulder to start. First couple finish facing second lady.
13 - 16 First couple, still in promenade hold, dance a half diagonal reel of three with second lady and third man, giving left shoulder to start. First couple finish facing down the set in second place with nearer hands joined.
17 - 20 First couple dance down between the third couple and cast to second place on the opposite side.
21 - 24 Third, first and second couples turn partners with two hands one and a half times to finish in the centre facing up ready for an allemande.
25 - 32 Third, first and second couples dance an allemande.

Repeat having passed a couple.

(Dance crib compiled by the deviser, Brian Charlton, 1995)

Dance Notes

(Dance notes by the deviser, Brian Charlton)

Keith Rose's Crib Diagram

The Ruby Wedding Strathspey - Full Size And Key To Symbols

Dance Information

Recommended music: A suitable recording is Lady Lucy Ramsay, A Dancer's Miscellany Vol. IV.

(Dance information by the deviser, Brian Charlton)

It is a significant milestone denoting the enduring nature of a couple's commitment over four decades. Traditionally associated with the ruby gemstone, this anniversary is marked by the exchange of gifts that often incorporate the ruby or red-themed items, symbolizing the lasting passion and strength of the marital bond. Celebrations typically involve gatherings with family and friends, where the couple receives congratulations and acknowledges the shared experiences and longevity of their union. The Ruby Wedding is a cultural and symbolic marker that recognises the achievement of sustaining a marriage for 40 years.

It is traditional on wedding anniversaries to give your partner (or couples) a gift that symbolises the particular anniversary. These gifts are made of different materials for each wedding anniversary.

The wedding anniversary associated with the material 'ruby' is the 40th.

Here is a list of the materials associated with traditional anniversary gifts for the various years.

Ruby Red

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