The first traditional Highland Dance classes began in Duluth in 1978. That’s when a group of Duluth Scots got together and asked Barbara Macpherson Reyelts, who had just moved to town, to offer classes. Barbara is a national award winning, licensed, registered Highland Dance teacher from Canada, who studied under Jean Remenda and Twice World Champion Dancer James L. Mackenzie.

Classes started fairly small but as word spread the numbers quickly grew. In the last forty-eight years literally hundreds of girls, boys and adults have taken lessons through the Duluth Scottish Heritage Association School of Highland Dance.

Among the first classes was a young student by the name of Diana Bouschor. Diana quickly became a standout student, eventually winning her way to the U-S National Championships. She also studied to be a Scottish Dance teacher, eventually taking and passing the very difficult exams to become a licensed Highland Dance Teacher. Once she had the credentials Diana, now Dodge, joined Barbara’s growing classes and became a co-teacher.

Highland Dance Classes continue to be offered at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 1710 East Superior Street in Duluth. Classes for premier students run from 3:30 to 4:30, beginners from 4:30 to 5:30 pm and for advanced from 5:30 to 6:30 pm on Monday afternoons.

Our students range in age from four years old to adults. We often have moms and dads join with their kids and learn to dance alongside them.

All are welcome!  Contact Barbara Reyelts at Breyeltsknowsnews@gmail.com or Diana Dodge at ddodge@duluthlaw.com for more information.