For families in Moose Jaw looking for an activity that balances discipline, history, and high-energy fun, the answer might be in trying out highland dancing.  The Moose Jaw Highland Dancers are officially opening registration for their 2026-27 season, and they are heading into their fourth year with a major milestone, a brand-new home.

The dance group is moving into the former Westmount School, now the Gottselig Athletic Performance (GAP) facility. For Director Adriane Good, this move represents a significant step forward.

“We were renting space at Against the Grain studios and while we really appreciated being able to use their space, our group is growing and it was time for us to find our own space,” says Good. “I had originally been planning on building a studio in my house, but when the opportunity arose to use space at the former Westmount School, I had to take it.”

Highland dance, a tradition that spans hundreds of years, is rooted in the history of Scottish warriors. It is a style defined by its combination of strength, grace, and athleticism. While the dances are steeped in deep historical context, Good emphasizes that students don’t need Scottish heritage to join but only a willingness to learn and perhaps a tolerance for bagpipes.

“Absolutely no prior dance experience is required for the boys-only, new beginner, or new primary classes,” Good explains. “We will be starting with the basics in each of those classes.”

The studio is currently filling spots in three specific streams: a boys-only class (ages 6+), a new primary dancer class (ages 3-5), and a new beginner class (age 6+). For those curious about whether the program is a good fit for their child, the studio is hosting a free trial class on Sunday, September 13. The session for children aged 3-5 runs from 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., while the session for children aged 6+ runs from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Once the season begins, dancers will find a community that extends far beyond the studio walls. Last year, the group stayed busy performing at local events like St. Patrick’s Day and Robbie Burns Day celebrations at Bobby’s Place, as well as sharing their talents at seniors’ residences across Moose Jaw. For those interested in taking their dance further, there are opportunities to join the Regina Highland Dancing Association and compete provincially, nationally, and even internationally.

Good notes that for new families, the entry process is designed to be accessible. Classes are priced at $20 a month for the younger primary dancers and $40 a month for those 6 and older. For equipment, new dancers don’t need to break the bank immediately; while “ghillies” (traditional dance shoes) are preferred, beginners are welcome to start in ballet slippers, and the studio even maintains a “stash” of kilts that can be borrowed for first-year dancers during performances.

As the dancers prepare for the start of the school year, the focus remains on building skills, fostering community, and having a great time. “Our objective is that we are able to share the joy and energy,” says Good, who hopes to incorporate more social activities this year alongside the weekly classes.

For more information about the trial class, or to register for the season, interested families can contact Adriane at mjhighlanddancers@gmail.com or connect with the Moose Jaw Highland Dancers on Facebook.

By Joan Ritchie

Moose Jaw Express