Here you can find information on dances collected from oral tradition which have, as part of their choreography, a stepping phase or phases. A typical example known to many would be the Four Hand Reel collected in Dorset, England. The dances are generally of the same format, known as “true reels” where a phase of stepping (usually 8 bars) alternates with one of more phrases of a figure or figure. This is often a figure eight, sometimes known as a hey, but some dances use other figures.
We also include dances which have a different format which are not true reels, where the steping is an integral part of the dance and not necessarily restricted to a particular part. The Morpeth Rant would be a well-known example of this.
Use the links below to access information on both types of dance.
Two-Hand Reels
Dances for two individuals which have the format of a true reel.
Three-Hand Reels
Dances for three individuals which have the format of a true reel. The travelling figure is, in this case, always a figure eight.
Four-Hand Reels
Dances for four individuals which have the format of a true reel. The travelling figure is, in this case, always a figure eight.
Five-Hand Reels
Dances for five individuals which have the format of a true reel. The travelling figures differ between different versions of the dance.
Six-Hand Reels
Dances usually for three couples in a longways set formation which have the format of a true reel. The travelling figures differ between different versions of the dance and there are often several.
Eight-Hand Reels
Dances usually for four couples often in a square set or quadrille formation formation which have the format of a true reel. The travelling figures differ between different versions of the dance.
Dances Other than True Reels
A mixed bag of dances where the stepping used is an integral part of the dance and not restricted o one or more eight bar phrases.