The side has established a Rapper side as part of their repertoire. The team to date is Peter, Ralph, Nick, Ian and Joel with Tony as teacher. During the winter season the side will be concentrating on improving their Rapper performances.
The Rapper Sword Dance is a tradition which developed in the coalfields of the N.E. of England. It is one of the more recent forms of traditional dance and also one of the more spectacular. The team consists of five dancers linked together by holding flexible strips of steel. Ensuring not to release their hold on the sword handles, the men dance in special formation at a swift pace which are punctuated by phases of 'stepping'. Ducking and turning the men move in twisting motions, resulting in the weaving of the swords into intricate patterns. There is also a musician.
For those interested in learning Rapper, come along practice nights.