The best highland dancers from around Australia tapped in to Launceston's Silverdome this weekend, for the 2022 Highland Dancing Champion of Champions Championships of Australia.
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Held bi-annually, the prestigious Championship has been running since 1976 and sees dancers from four years to over 25 competing in a range of sections.
National and International champions will be competing in traditional Scottish dances, including the Highland Fling, the Sword Dance and the Seann Triubhas.
Tasmania last hosted the International Highland Dancing event in Hobart in 2012. The Championships have been staged in Launceston once previously in 2002.
Dancers, teachers and families will be back in action at this weekend's event, with Highland dancing competitions globally cancelled over the last two years due to the pandemic. Event spokesperson Kim Roe said that Tasmania has a rich history of involvement in the prestigious event.
"We have champion dancers from all over Australia here, as well as dancers from Scotland and Canada," she said.
"If you have come in the top three of a championship, you are allowed to compete in this premier event."
Ms Roe said that when competing in highland dancing there are certain things the judges are looking for.
"They are looking for perfect technique, excellent timing, absolute precision and fitness. It's a very aerobic form of dance, lot's of steps and you are hopping up and down a lot, constantly moving so they are looking for those who can finish the dance with ease," she said.
"The championship starts from seven to 11 years, then 12-15 and then 16 and over. In the supporting events we have from ages of four and we have adults competing who are in their 40's.
"We have lots of support for the dancers today and we have had people who heard of the event and have come by to watch. It's a great event and great spectacle."
Champion Highland Dancer Elie Roe Daniel said she was excited to compete.
"To compete and be successful at Champion of Champions is the goal of every Australian dancer", she said.
The Championship has been running since 1976 and is Australia's most esteemed highland dancing event.
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Nikita McGuire
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
