Scottish Country Dancing Dictionary

Swings And Roundabouts (Dall)

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

SWINGS AND ROUNDABOUTS (M-4x(S32+J32)) 4C set Ian Dall Third Sheaf Collection

Strathspey
1- 8 1s turn RH, cast, turn 1¼ LH to face 1st corners (2s step up 3-4)
9-10 1s+1st corners change places RH while 2nd corners set advancing slightly to centre
11-12 1st+2nd corners dance ½ LH across while 1s chase clockwise to next corner place
13-14 1L+3M and 1M+2L change places RH while 3L and 2M cast right to opposite corner place
15-16 1st+2nd corners chase clockwise to next corner while 1s turn 1½ LH to face 1st corners (in 2nd corner position)
17-24 Repeat 9-14 then 1s turn ¾ LH to 2nd place own side while 1st+2nd corners chase clockwise to next corner
25-28 ½ diagonal R&L (1L+3L and 1M+2M cross RH)
29-32 ½ diagonal R&L (1L+3M and 1M+2L cross RH)

Jig
33-64 1s repeat 1-32 from 2nd place (may replace LH turn 15-16 with change places LH)

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


Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams


Dance Instruction Videos

Swings And Roundabouts (Dall) - Scottish Country Dancing Instruction Video

Dance Information

The expression "swings and roundabouts" is a colloquial phrase used to convey the idea that a situation involves both advantages and disadvantages, with gains in one area being offset by losses in another.

Originating from the imagery of playground equipment, the phrase is often employed to emphasize the cyclical and balanced nature of life's ups and downs. It suggests that life is a series of trade-offs and fluctuations, reminding individuals that certain choices or situations may bring both positive and negative outcomes, ultimately resulting in a balance between the two.

Swings And Roundabouts (Dall)
Swings And Roundabouts (Dall)


Image copyright Glyn Baker Creative Commons Licence 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

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