Rosey’s Story

One of our favorite aspects of August is bringing the Tattoo cast together. Every year, we invite talented individuals from all over the world to join us in Edinburgh. Their collective passion for music, military tradition and cultural performance generates an incredible atmosphere of creativity and collaboration. In previous years, when not performing, our Tattoo cast have participated in impromptu fiddle classes, song writing sessions and sharing of cultural traditions.  

With four months to go until our Stories opening night, members of our 2023 cast are already preparing for our Show. Formations are being plotted, dance routines being choreographed, and music being memorized.  

Aberdeen based Rosey has been dancing since she was a young girl and joined our Tattoo cast for the first time in 2022. We reached out to her to find out more about how she got into dance and how our young performers balance their daily life with preparing for our August Show.  

Why do you dance? What are the things you enjoy most and why?

“Growing up, I used to listen to music on the radio or CD player and turn it into a dance. It was either dancing highland to Katy Perry or disco to the bagpipes; I always loved choreographing routines.  

Dancing just seems to come out of the inner me. I love how creative you can be with dancing, and how you can express your emotions.” 

What was it that triggered you to start dancing?

“Since my mum was a Highland dance teacher, I was always involved in dancing from a young age. As soon as I could walk, I started attempting a pas des basques!” 

What is your favourite dance to perform and why? 

“I enjoy performing the Strathspey and Reel of Tulloch as it is the only dance where you can compete with other people. I think you get a real buzz from it, and dancing alongside competitors so closely always pushes me to put everything into the performance. 

Along with that, I do love the feeling when I back step away from a successful sword dance.” 

What words of wisdom would you pass on to young dancers looking to perform at the Tattoo?  

“Go for it! If it’s something you want to do, put your all into every aspect of dancing, and you’ll be rewarded.” 

Can you describe what it feels like to dance on the Castle Esplanade?

“It’s the most surreal feeling ever. Ever since I was little, I’ve gone to watch the Tattoo, each year dreaming that one day I would get the opportunity to dance on the Esplanade.  

Having that experience for the first time in 2022 was astonishing; every night was a new experience and stepping out to a packed crowd was a buzz like no other.”  

In 2022, we introduced a new feature called Electro Pipes. Showcasing a modern twist on the bagpipes this included a high tempo dance set and pyrotechnics. What was it like performing with the team for Electro Pipes?  

“I had never experienced anything like it before. It was amazing to see the crowd’s reaction each night, they absolutely loved it!  

It was so enjoyable to combine my dancing technique with a modern twist; definitely a look into the future for sure!” 

What are you most proud of so far in your dancing career?

“Competitively, when I became the juvenile World Highland Dancing champion in 2019. It had been a goal of mine ever since I was little, and to have turned it into a reality was something I will always cherish and be incredibly proud.” 

What do you do outside of highland dancing? 

“Since I am mostly away dancing at the weekends, I like to spend my free time with my family, which usually consists of walks and good food!” 

What are your goals for 2023 and beyond?

My goals are to continue improving my technique within dancing and build a recognisable name within the dancing industry. I also want to continue travelling worldwide for dancing as it is something I enjoy. 

You’re currently studying Journalism at Robert Gordon University, how do you find time balancing your studies with your dance?

“I think because I started dancing so young, I’ve always had to balance education and dancing. This made it easier when I started university as I knew what to expect. I always make sure to get any educational work done and keep up to date; whether that means getting up early in the morning or staying up later at night after dancing to get the work done.” 

What would you like to do once you finish your studies?

“I would like to specialise in sports journalism; however, if I’ve learnt one thing throughout my life, it's always to stay open-minded as opportunities can arise from anywhere.”  

How are you preparing for August?

“I attend dance classes weekly, working on technique, stamina and overall presence. Along with that, I also compete most weekends to allow myself to find a baseline that I can then work off. This lets me see what I have to improve upon to make myself the best possible version of myself.” 

You can catch Rosey performing live this summer. Tickets for our Stories Show are still available via our website here.