Scottish Country Dancing Dictionary

Ski 'N' Do

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

SKI 'N' DO (J32) Round the Room Alex Gray Scandinavian Dance Book 1
Round the Room Dance 2 facing 2

1- 8 Ladies dance Fig of 8 round opposite Man and partner (RSh round opposite Man, LSh round partner. Ladies pass LSh in middle)
9-16 Men repeat (LSh round opposite Lady, RSh round partner. Men pass RSh in middle)
17-24 All turn opposite dancer RH, turn partner LH
25-28 All set advancing to opposite dancer and ½ turn them RH to finish in prom hold with new partner, facing Men's starting place (Men shoulder to shoulder)
29-32 Couples dance round each other and dance on in direction Men originally facing to meet next couple

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


Dance Information

The title of this dance is probably a word play on Sgian Dubh, pronounced 'ski-en doo')

"Sgian Dubh" refers to a small, single-edged knife traditionally worn as part of Scottish Highland dress. It is often tucked into the top of the hose (sock) with only the hilt visible. The name "Sgian Dubh" translates to "black knife" in Scottish Gaelic, and it holds cultural significance.

The juxtaposition of "Ski 'N' Do" and "Sgian Dubh" creates an intriguing fusion of winter sports and a traditional Scottish cultural emblem. It could be interpreted as an imaginative and perhaps humorous suggestion to engage in a combination of activities, blending the excitement of skiing or winter adventures with elements of Scottish heritage.



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