The Shepherd's Crook (MacNab)

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 All turn right about to face the opposite direction, dance away for 4 steps, turn right about to face the other way and dance forward for 4 steps
9-16 All set (e.g. 'Rocking Step') for 8 bars
17-24 Dance the Shepherd's Crook:
 Lady on the Man's right dances round under the arch made by Man and the other Lady, Man follows under the arch while the other Lady turns under her own right arm. Repeat with Lady on the Man's left leading
25-40 Man sets Highland Schottische (starting left foot) with Lady on right (ballroom hold) and turns her RH. Man repeats with Lady on left
41-48 All dance a reel of 3 - Man starts by passing LSh with Lady on right
49-56 All facing the top set (e.g. 'Crossover' [Huntly] step) for 8 bars
57-64 All circle round left for 4 bars and back to right ending in line across facing the top
65-72 All dance the final step of the 'Highland Fling'. Bar 68: M turns Right about, Ladies pivot right about. Bars 71-72: M dances double L turn about, Ladies turn L about with 4 walking steps

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

Dance Notes

Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams

The Shepherd's Crook (MacNab) - Full Size And Key To Symbols

Dance Instruction Videos

Dance Information

A shepherd's crook is a long and sturdy stick with a hook at one end, often with the point flared outwards, used by a shepherd to manage and sometimes catch sheep.

Moreover, the crook serves as a means of defense against attacks from predators. While navigating challenging terrain, the crook proves helpful in maintaining balance. Shepherds can also utilize this elongated tool to clear dense undergrowth, such as at the periphery of drovers' roads, when seeking lost sheep or potential predators.

A Shepherd With His Crook

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