By Lisa Carolin
Highland dancing is a unique and athletic form of dance that celebrates the Scottish culture. It is Jennifer (Craig) Lopez’s goal to share her passion for highland dancing with the Chelsea area.
That’s why she opened her studio called Craig Highland Dancers in September. It’s located at the Washington Street Education Center in room 404.
“Highland dance is different from most types of dance, and I want everyone to have an opportunity to experience this unique form,” said Craig. “I have found many students who enjoy highland over other traditional styles of dance due to its athletic nature because it requires both strength and stamina.”
Her students have the opportunity to travel all over the world.
“Highland dances are performed individually and were originally performed by the Scottish military as training exercises,” said Craig. “It teaches many valuable life lessons including self-discipline, hard work, and goal setting.”
You don’t need a Scottish background or any particular dance experience to learn Highland dance. Craig welcomes all skill levels and ages.
“Currently, I teach dancers ranging from 4-13 years, but we have new classes starting in January for dancers under 4 (along with a parent), and I encourage all ages through adult to participate in the new beginner classes as well,” she said.
Craig lived most of her life in Chelsea though she recently moved to Rochester, Michigan.
She says Chelsea is a great area for Scottish dance.
“The community also offers many events that our more recreational dancers are able to perform while still being centrally located for the competitive dancers to travel to competitions,” said Craig.
She has been dancing for more than 10 years and is a competitive dancer who has won numerous titles and awards.
To learn more about Craig Highland Dancers, go to https://craighighlanddancers.com.
