The Bradstow Reel

Source: Eddie Upton; published in English Dance & Song, Spring 1984 Volume 46 Number 1
Formation: Sicilian Circle, Hornpipe Step throughout

A1 Circle Left; Circle Right
A2 North Country Ladies' Chain x2 - but the Ladies Allemande Right each time they meet
B1 (Neighbour Pull By Right; Partner Allemande Left 1 & 1/2) x2
B2 With arms around Partner's waist, Ladies Link Right Arms: Star Promenade
With Next Couple, Men Link Left Arms: Star Promenade - finish by falling back to face that couple

Music:
Speed the Plough or other suitable 32 bar hornpipe tunes.

Notes:
I would probably suggest a Forearm Hold with Cupped Elbow (Diagram 11) for nearly all of the moves in this dance.

North Country Ladies' Chain: Important: The man does NOT turn at all. Ladies pull by right and offer left to the man. The man steps to the right and raises his left hand; the lady backs under it to end facing the same way as the man, slightly behind him, on his left. The man lowers his left hand and steps to his left, passing the lady's left hand from his left hand to his right hand behind his back. As he does this the lady steps to her right and forward to stand beside him. They end up as a couple with the man on the left, lady on the right.


Original page from English Dance & Song, Spring 1984


The Bradstow Reel

Back to Dance Index

I'd love to hear from you if you know anything more about this dance, its composer, its style, or its history.

Feedback is very welcome on any aspect of these dances or Web pages.

Please contact John Sweeney with your comments.



Contrafusion