BONNY Hills resident Christie Rogers, 30, is enjoying significant success on the Highland Dancing scene.
Christie recently returned from the Champion of Champions, a biannual Highland Dancing event held this year on the Gold Coast, which attracted approximately 300 competitors from across the country and overseas.
Christie achieved strong results across all her dance types, attaining first in the Scottish Lilt, second in the Flora, and fourth in the Trophy Highland Fling.
Working in floristry and social media, Christie says her true passion lies in the traditional dance form, devoting a significant part of her week to lessons and practise.
“I have Scottish heritage and have always loved Celtic culture,” she said.
“I couldn’t find anywhere locally to learn, so I do lessons via Zoom with Jacaranda Highland Dancers who are based in Grafton.
“I’m currently dancing at a beginner’s level and I’m working hard to progress to novice level.
“My favourite style is the Lilt as it has very graceful moves similar to ballet,” she said.
Her next competition will be in Armidale in July.
Highland dancing has roots dating back to the eleventh century where it was predominantly performed by men, and particularly by warriors prior to battle.
It was regarded as a way to demonstrate strength, agility, stamina, and accuracy.
Popularised for women by Jenny Douglas in the nineteenth century, it has been in Australia since the late 1800s with standards maintained by the Australian Board of Highland Dancing.
Today is a vibrant part of Australia’s cultural arts scene with annual Highland games and major competitions across the country.
By Rachael THORPE
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