Highland Dancers

In 1988, with demand for performances increasing, the Ottawa Police Service Pipe Band expanded their repertory to include Highland Dancers. Dancers were recruited to accompany the band to Estes Park, Colorado, where they provided another dynamic element to an already rich display of piping and drumming. A partnership was born.

Today the core consists of more than ten adult dancers who have been with the band for several years.  Some are full time university students while others are working professionals who all share a love of highland dance.  Combined, they hail from all parts of the country and have competed and performed all over the world.

The dancers are of Premier standard, the highest level in competition.  Many dancers past and present have been successful at the provincial, national and world championship level, bringing a high standard of technique to the group. Every dancer is a seasoned performer, having participated in shows such as the Cleveland International Tattoo, the Glengarry Highland Games Tattoo and for the visit of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2010.  Dancers are also regular participants at many local highland games, community displays and Scottish society events.

Original choreographies are created each year by the dancers themselves.  These numbers incorporate traditional highland steps with influences from other dance forms such as Irish and step dance.  This allows the group to push the creative envelope and give a modern twist to the ancient dance form.

New dancers are always welcomed!

For more information, you can contact the Ottawa Police Service Pipe Band Dancers at pipeband@ottawapolice.ca or ritchiej@ottawapolice.ca.