Class Information & Dress Code

Sutherland Studio of Dance offers recreational and competitive classes.

Recreational Dancers – starting to learn highland dancing, Recreational dancers may or may not participate in performances/competitions/examinations depending on their performance level.

Serious Competitive Dancers will be attending classes more than once a week. Pre-Premier & Championship level competitors should have a competition plan, competing at least once a month over the fall and winter and more frequently during the spring and summer months.

For dancers in the Beginner, Novice, Intermediate categories where stamps are counted for progression we ensure the dancer masters basic dance principals.

In consultation with the teacher, competitions should be chosen to reflect a challenging level of competition and exposure to different dance communities. Titles of Primary, Beginner, Novice, Intermediate, Premier indicate the level of competition offered by competition organizers but do not necessarily give a true reflection of a dancer's progression.

Our studio philosophy continues to be quality of technique over the number of dances known.

Dancewear: Dancers are required to wear Dancewear. The Teacher must be able to see bodylines and muscle engagement for development of good posture, muscle control and muscle development. Parental support and co-operation is required to ensure that your dancer follows the Studio Dress Code. Your child MUST be dressed properly for class and have the required equipment with them for each class. Help your dancer to be organized for class.

Dance-wear Requirements for all Classes

Highland Dancing:

  • Girls:
    • Plain Black Leotard; dancers may wear tight fitting black dance shorts. Please no loose fitting shirts / shorts.
    • Sutherland Studio white Turnout Knee socks and highland slippers.
    • Hair neatly groomed, off the face in a very secure Bun.
    • Black Highland Slippers (Thistle Shoes preferred), or for new Beginners/Tartan Tots a black gym slipper is acceptable.
  • Boys:
    • Black/Navy shorts (without pockets)
    • Neat fitting t-shirt,
    • Sutherland Studio white Turnout Knee socks and slippers

Competition Classes: Beginner, Novice, Intermediate, Premier competitors require a Practice Skirt for National Dances. Intermediate & Premier dancers require Irish Jig Hard Shoes.