West Seattle's Alan Goodin helped sweep a few novices off their feet at Northwest Folklife Festival. He is a member of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society. Holding his left hand is 10 year-old Cesca Segarra, who danced in honor of her great-grandmother, Mary Dean Scott, a West Seattle High School graduate of 1930.
The men wore skirts and the women wore jeans as the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society-Seattle Branch played music, demonstrated fancy footwork, and taught newcomers such dances as "Fish & Chips" at the Rainier Room, Seattle Center during the Northwest Folklife Festival Memorial Day weekend. Instructor Clark Cavin of Greenwood has taught Scottish Dance for two decades.
West Seattle resident Alan Goodin who lives west of the Alaska Junction was decked out in traditional Scottish garb.
"My grandmother on my father's side was a 'McKay,'" said Goodwin. "I dress up five or six times a year. I could wear it every Monday night but it's a lot to put on. I'm also a member of the Caledonians and we have Scottish dancing Monday nights at the Phinney Neighborhood Center.
Performing keyboard in the Rainier Room was Polly Tarpley, who used to dance but said she has had health problems with her feet. Tarpley's mother, Mary Dean Scott, was born in West Seattle and graduated West Seattle High School class of 1930. Scott's great-granddaughter, Cesca Segarra, 10, danced at the event in her honor.
