Handsworth, South Yorkshire

Handsworth is a suburb of south eastern Sheffield, in South Yorkshire, England.

Handsworth Sword Dancers

One aspect to the Handsworth history which we remains very much alive is the traditional sword dancing. The origins of this ancient ritual are unknown, and it is possible that they lie in pre-Christian magic.

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Using long steel swords, a team of eight men perform a dance which lasts about nine minutes and ends with all the swords being interlocked and held aloft by one man. Traditional music is played and the dancers wear a military style uniform similar to the Dragoons.

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