Handsworth Traditional Sword Dancers’ taster sessions are back this February, offering you the chance to learn our famous dance alongside other beginners. Musicians are welcome too!
Tempted? Take our quick survey:
- Are you vaguely interested in improving your physical fitness but don’t fancy the gym?
- Do you like going to festivals but not paying for them?
- Do you enjoy music, singing and having fun?
- Are you looking for a rewarding, unconventional hobby in 2026?
- Are you interested in participating in an unbroken 150-year-old Sheffield tradition and wearing a really snazzy velvet jacket?
If you answered YES! to any of the above, then Handsworth Sword Dancers might be for you! If you’d like to find out, in a no-pressure situation with other people who’ve never done sword dancing before, then come to our 2026 taster sessions on Wednesdays 4th, 11th and 18th February.
Please contact us if you’d like to know more first, or plan on coming, so we can share specific details about our practice room and where to meet us.
Taster session location and dates
- Burton Street Foundation, Hillsborough (in the Burton Hall)
- Wednesday 4 February 2026, Wednesday 11 February 2026 and Wednesday 18 February 2026
- Participation on 11 and 18 February does not require attendance at a previous session. Join one practice, or all three to fully immerse yourself in longsword!
What to expect
- Welcome & introduction – meet the team and watch a short performance of the dance we’ll be learning
- Warm‑up & basics – stretches, simple footwork and sword‑handling
- Group practice – forming groups including established members of the team to support you, we’ll dance figures suitable for beginners and create the signature lock of intertwined swords
- Music & social – Dancing will be accompanied by our musicians and we’re happy to take questions, tell you a bit of our history (over 130 years) and about our regular practices
All ages, genders and skill levels welcome – no prior experience required.
What to bring
- Comfortable clothing that allows free movement
- Flat, comfortable shoes (no heels)
- Water/drink – expect a light workout, so stay hydrated
FAQs
Q) Is there parking?
A) Free parking in the Burton Street Foundation car park and on the street outside
Q) Is there public transport?
A) Sheffield Supertram and buses stop within a 5‑minute walk on Langsett Road
Q) What if I’m a complete beginner?
A) Perfectly fine – the session is designed for first‑timers
Q) Can I bring a friend who just wants to watch?
A) Absolutely! Spectators and musicians are welcome
Q) Do I need to bring my own sword?
A) No – we provide swords for the session!