Welcome to the Grenoside Sword Dancers 2010 Tribute site.

Grenoside Sword Dancers, circa 1895

Tribute to what?

2010 is an important year for us as it marks the centenary of the visit of Cecil Sharp to the village of Grenoside. In 1910 Sharp visited to collect the Grenoside sword dance. His notations were published, along with other dances, in the publication "Sword Dances of Northern England Vol. 1"

Why was his visit so special?

Sharp was a major factor in the revival of folk traditions in England of the last century. He collected hundreds of folk songs and dances, many of which would have been lost forever without his intervention. His influence cannot be overstated - in fact many would say that without his work the revivals may not have happened at all.

Grenoside Sword Dancers, 2008

How will this event be commemorated?

Throughout the year (and starting towards the end of 2009) we will be holding a number of events to commemorate Sharp's visit. New songs and dances have been created, old dances revived or amended to match Sharp's original notations, and teams from all over the country will be coming together to perform them at these events. There will also be workshops, the publication of a special booklet and DVD, and plenty of activities for everyone to get involved in.