Performers

The Manitoba Highland Dancers' Association
Founded in 1947, the Manitoba Highland Dancers' Association's goals have changed little through the years -- the preservation of Scottish heritage through traditional dance. As well, the organization works to instill a sense of good sportsmanship, respect and friendship among its members. The MHDA hosts five dance competitions through the year and is available for "dance outs" at various functions throughout the province. The Association currently (2006) has 160 dancing members.

The Ena Sutton Highland Dancers of Winnipeg (ESHDW)
This dance troupe was formed by the late Ena Sutton in 1965 to foster an awareness and appreciation for Scottish heritage through the medium of dance. Since that time, the group has established a choreographic style that incorporates traditional highland dance steps with modern techniques. The Ena Sutton Dancers can be seen annually at the Scottish Pavilion performing in the Main Stage Show during Folklorama. During the remainder of the year, they perform at social functions throughout Manitoba. In 1994, the group entertained at Disney World in Orlando, Florida and in 1999 they performed at the Pan Am Games Opening Ceremony. In 2007 they traveled to Trujillo, Peru for the Festival Internacional de Danza Folkloricas de Group Universitarios (International Folklore Dance Festival) from August 22 to 27. The Ena Sutton Highland Dancers were chosen to represent Scotland as a group directly from Scotland was not available for such a large trip.

Flying Haggis Show Band
This talented group of volunteers (along with ESHDW) have been the Scottish Pavilion's main stage show for many years.

The Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada are an infantry regiment within the Canadian Forces Army Reserve. The unit was founded in 1910 as the 79th Cameron Highlanders of Canada through the efforts of Winnipeg’s Scottish Community. With the creation of the Regiment came the creation of its Pipes & Drums, preserving traditions established when regiments of Highland Scots were first incorporated into the British Army. The Cameron Pipes & Drums provide musical support to the Regiment and the Canadian Forces for parades, ceremonies, and mess dinners, as well as performing at community events and pipe band competitions. The Pipes & Drums are composed of both serving soldiers and civilian members. Competent pipers and drummers interested in joining the band as soldiers or civilian volunteers are encouraged to contact the band at clyde.bg@forces.gc.ca

Braemar Dancers of Winnipeg
Formed in 1992 by director Margaret Zadworny, the Braemar Dancers perform traditional and contemporary highland dances based on Scottish country and step dancing. Developed in the early 1800's, step dancing is a mixture of ballet, highland and Scottish country dancing.

Kelvin Community Dancers
Also directed by Margaret Zadworny, the Kelvin Community Dancers were organized in 1995 to provide younger dancers with instruction in highland, hard shoe and Scottish country dancing. At present the group, which ranges in age from 3 to 18, enjoys giving demonstrations at senior centres and various Scottish performances in the Winnipeg area.

The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society, Winnipeg Branch
In Glasgow in 1923, Jean Milligan and Ysobel Stewart formed the Scottish Country Dance Society in order to collect, revive and promote the traditional dances. The Society was granted a Royal Charter by His Royal Highness King George VI in 1952, and today there are branches world-wide. The Winnipeg Branch of RSCDS began in 1959. RSCDS participates in many events, including Scottish Heritage Day and the Pavilion of Scotland during Folklorama.