Barbary Bell

Source: Collected by Peter Kennedy; published in English Dance & Song, July 1950, Volume XV, No. 1
Formation: Longways; Duple Minor; Proper

A1	Hold Right Hands with Neighbour: Lines go Forward & Back Men Arch: Cross Over - change places with Neighbour, #1s twirling under
A2	Repeat with Ladies making the Arch
B1	#1s Lead Down, Turn Alone, Lead Up and Cast Down one place - #2s Move Up
B2	Swing & Change: Dance around the other couple AC

Barbary Bell - CDM version

Source: published in Community Dances Manual 3 (1952)
Formation: Longways; Duple Minor; Proper

A1	Hold Nearest Hands with Neighbour: Lines go Forward & Back Men Arch: Cross Over
A2	Repeat with Ladies making the Arch
B1	#1s Lead Down, Turn Alone, Lead Up to Place
B2	Swing & Change: Dance around the other couple once and a half AC

Music:
Own tune or any 32-bar jig.

Notes:
The CDM version was simplified, with the original twirling to swap places added in brackets.

The CDM reprint reverted to the original A1/A2, but with the revised B1/B2. However they also changed it so that #2 man does the twirling under.

See Corn Rigs for details of the Northumbrian dance style.

Original page from English Dance & Song, July 1950

Back to Dance Index

I'd love to hear from you if you know anything more about this dance, its composer, its style, or its history.

Feedback is very welcome on any aspect of these dances or Web pages.

Please contact John Sweeney with your comments.