BFI

An actuality record of a traditional Scottish dance, filmed at Balmoral Castle and originally staged as a special performance for Queen Victoria and her household (who can be dimly discerned in the background). The dancers were considered the finest exponents of their profession.

Like most actuality films of the time, it consists of a single static shot, framing the entire dance platform so that everything of interest could be captured. Since the film was recording a live event, it is safe to assume that there would be few opportunities for retakes.

Towards the end of the film it becomes clear that the Balmoral grounds are also hosting some kind of athletic events, as a group of runners circles the dance platform and runs past the camera.

Michael Brooke

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