Tempest In A Teacup

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

TEMPEST IN A TEACUP (R3x64) 3C set Terry Glasspool Strathspey Anniversary Collection
2s start on opposite sides

1- 8 1s+2s dance R&L. Men end facing out
9-12 1s+2s dance ½ Ladies' Chain ending in line across, Ladies RH joined
13-20 1s+2s dance The Targe:
13-14 Ladies ¾ turn RH while Men dance ¼ way round anticlockwise
15-16 Men turn partner once round LH
17-18 Repeat 1-2
19-20 Men turn partner ¾ LH onto sidelines (1s on Ladies' side, 2s on Men's side)
21-24 1s+2s dance ½ Ladies' Chain. 2(1)3
25-32 RSh reels of 3 on sides, 1s dance down passing 3s RSh to start
33-56 1s+3s repeat 1-24 but with Men and Ladies swapped over i.e. R&L Ladies face out; Ladies Chain with Men crossing RH to start, etc
57-64 RSh reels of 3 on sides, 3s dancing up passing 2s at top RSh to start. 2(3)1

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

Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams

Tempest In A Teacup Keith Rose's Diagram

Tempest In A Teacup - Full Size And Key To Symbols

Dance Instruction Videos

Tempest In A Teacup - Scottish Country Dancing Instruction Video

Dance Information

The phrase "tempest in a teacup" (or "storm in a teacup") is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation where there is a great deal of fuss, excitement, or controversy over a matter that is, in reality, trivial or of little consequence. It conveys the idea that the level of concern or agitation about a particular issue is exaggerated or disproportionate relative to its actual importance.

In essence, when someone refers to a "tempest in a teacup", they are suggesting that the situation is being blown out of proportion, and the emotions or reactions surrounding it are much more intense than warranted. The imagery of a tempest or storm being confined to a small teacup emphasizes the contrast between the smallness of the issue and the intensity of the reaction.

This phrase is often used in a dismissive or critical manner to downplay the significance of a situation and to suggest that people should not be overly concerned or upset about it. It's a way of encouraging perspective and indicating that the issue is not as serious as some might believe.

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