Rapper is a form of sword dancing which originated in the mining villages and communities of Northumberland and County Durham, during the 19th century. Five dancers perform intricate figures, while linked together by flexible 'swords'. The figures are interspersed by rapid stepping patterns. The dances include, and usually finish with the swords interlinked to form a lock, nut or star, held aloft. The dances were usually performed in pubs and sound most effective on a wooden floor. We have our own portable floor if required.

Black Rigg Rapper was formed in 2007 and is currently a mixed side, although eventually we would like to be able to have a male and a female team. We dress in black collarless shirts, black trousers and wear a green and purple sash, reflecting the colours of the North Yorkshire moors. We perform a mixture of traditional and self composed dances using traditional moves. We have appeared at various pubs, private functions, ceilidhs and folk festivals including Whitby Moor & Coast, Sword Spectacular (York 2008), Saddleworth, Otley and Dent Festivals, Darlington Spring Thing and Whitworth Rushcart event.

We practise at the Station Hotel, junction of Station Road/Coatham Road, Redcar, Cleveland on Tuesday evenings, 7.30 - 9.30 pm. Please check before travelling. We welcome new members as dancers or musicians. A little percussive dance experience would be helpful. Ideal instruments would be melodeon, accordion, fiddle whistle or banjo. Five or six jig tunes (6/8 timing) would be required, played fairly fast!

Interested? Want to know more? Would you like us to dance at your event?

Contact: - Secretary - Jenny Fishpool - 07811672826

Email - blackriggrapper@gmail.com

Or visit our website - www.blackriggrapper.co.uk