Hoop Dance

Speciality dance for girls  known from oral tradition in the southern Lake District, usually being taught to children.  Also known as Dancing Through the Hoop.  Occasionally performed to particular music (Hoop Strathspey).

Known to have been taught by the following dancing masters:

Tommy Cannon of Underbarrow and Crosthwaite
Mr Garnett, operating in Whicham in 1825.
James Howson operating in Flookborough
Alfred Threlfall Robinson
Joseph William  Robinson (Old Jos)
Robert Carson Robinson operating in the MIllom and Barrow areas.
Stainton Robinson of Windermere

Notatation provided by Robinson, Roberta. Partial notations from Coward, Miss E and Metcalf, Mrs

Photographs show that the hoops were often decorated with ribbons (red and white) with occasional bows.

Information derived from interviews by Tom Flett with: