MacNeill, Neil

Neil MacNeil, of Barra, (b1864) was the first person from who Tom Flett collected when he began his fieldwork in April 1953.

He was able to provide information on the following dances:

Cath nan Coileach (Combat of the Cocks).  Social dance. Although the name of this dance was previously known, this is the first available notation.  A two couple dance in which the dancers are intended to represent the bickering of fighting cocks.  Taught at a dancing school held in Castlebay, Barra by Ronald Morrison in about 1881.

Ruidhleadh nan Coileach Dubhna (Reel of the Blackcocks).  Social Dance. Again although  the name of this dance was previously known, this is the first available notation.  A two couple dance in which the dancers are intended to represent blackcocks and ducks. Taught at a dancing school held in Castlebay, Barra by Ronald Morrison in about 1881.

Coille Bharrach (The Barra Wood)  Social Dance. A version of the Four Hand Reel for as many as will.

White Cockade Social Dance for two couples.

Ruidhleadh nam Banntraicheann (Widower’s Dance)  Social dance for five dancers involving  dancers leaving and joining the set from time to time.  Similar to the PIn Reel.

Information from and Interview with the informant by Tom Flett  9th April 1953.