Dancing in circles is one of the oldest dance formations. People around the world have gathered for centuries to mark special occasions, strengthen community and encourage togetherness.
In the 1970’s, German ballet master Bernhard Wosien brought a modern take on this ancient form to the Findhorn Foundation in Scotland, blending traditional Balkan steps with his own choreography. From there, circle dance spread across the country, evolving as new music and fresh steps inspired local groups to form. One such group found its home in 2015 within Edinburgh u3a, thanks to retired nurse and keen dancer Kate D.
Kate spent much of her career as a community nurse in southern Scotland. When Covid hit, she decided it was time to retire - and turned her attention to the joy of circle dancing. With no groups nearby, Kate often travelled to England to dance. It was there she first heard about u3a. Ten years ago, she joined Edinburgh u3a and quickly noticed something missing: No Circle Dancing group. So, she started one.
“It's not like Zumba - you’re not leaping around,” Kate explains. “The slower, mid-paced dances really suit older people.”
Each week, she leads a mix of traditional and modern dances set to music from around the globe. “It’s interesting and lovely,” she says. Every step is carefully notated to stay true to the original choreography. Circle dancers usually hold hands, creating an unbroken link that loops around the room, dancing around a central cloth and candle (a battery one these days!) echoing the firelit rituals of the past. Many of the dances honour the elements and have a calming, meditative feel.
“People come for the company, the music, and the movement”, Kate says. And they stay for the friendships - the group has become a real community.
The Group meets on Fridays, 2-4pm, at the Salisbury Centre. Dances start gently and gradually build in complexity, with time for a break and a friendly chat. New faces are welcome. Find out more about joining or running a group here
Page last updated on 18th July 2025