Our story
Nonsuch History & Dance began as a performing company in 1966, becoming a registered charity in 1976.
We explore dance history through international summer courses, and performing in many historic locations in the UK, Europe and beyond.
Our Founder, Peggy Dixon’s research produced nine volumes of dance instructions with accompanying recorded music spanning five centuries. The research continues.
We invite all ages and abilities worldwide to experience the joy of bringing the past alive through dance.
Our mission
By researching historical evidence, we set out to recreate how people danced in the past. The process of learning these dances is sometimes challenging, yet always fun. It is our mission to connect dance to historical locations, using costume, drama, and music to produce a celebratory festival vibe.
Our collaborations and partnerships
Over the past fifty years, the company has worked with many organisations, cultural bodies, museums and educational establishments, including the British Museum and National Art Gallery in London and Bienal de Flamenco and Seville Conservatory of Music & Dance in Spain. Support has been received from various sources including the Arts Council of England, National Museums and Galleries of Scotland, the Whiteside Hill Community Fund and Visit Scotland.
Current collaborations with: Laban Guild International, A’the Airts Sanquhar, Tolbooth Museum, St Bride’s Church Sanquhar and Robert Burns venues in Dumfries.