Congratulations to May Martin who has become an Honorary Member of the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing.
May McLaughlan Martin is a recognized and well-respected figure in Highland Dancing circles at home in Scotland and Overseas.
As a SOBHD Delegate for more than 20 years May Martin has played an active role in the development of Highland Dancing locally, nationally and internationally. May Martin first represented the Western Ontario area as a SOBHD Delegate when Canada was divided into “Area Committees” during the 1980s. After ScotDance Canada was formed, Delegates were invited to represent SDC at the Scottish Official Board Meetings. May accepted the position and has faithfully attended and continues to attend the Board Meetings. Her ability to speak up fearlessly on issues and at the same time defend the traditions of the SOBHD has won her the respect and appreciation of many.
She is a Teacher, Examiner, Scottish Official Board Judge and Competition Organizer and as an Ambassador for the SOBHD travelled extensively in the United Kingdom, across Canada, the United States and Australia teaching, judging and examining.
As a Dancer and Competitor May started Highland Dancing lessons at the age of 4 years with May Falconer in Motherwell attending classes there for a short period of time. She then joined the Isa Russel School of Dancing in Hamilton before being invited by Bobby Cuthbertson to join his class. May gives Bobby Cuthbertson credit for the training she received for her Championship Title wins, including the Scottish Championships at Cowal 1949 and 1951. She recalls Bobby Cuthbertson playing the small pipes whilst sitting on a chair dancing with his feet. Bobby introduced extended High Cuts to Highland Dancing. High Cuts are a favourite movement that May still practices and works hard to have her pupils accomplish. When Bobby Cuthbertson moved to Edinburgh the Class was taken over by Andrew Sutherland who was a Teacher who made a lasting impression on May.
The Martin Family has made Highland Dancing a Family Affair. May’s husband Alex is a well-known Piper who has played for dancers at many competitions and Championships including Cowal in Scotland, SDCCS and overseas. May’s full time position as a Highland Dress Consultant for Hector Russell in Glasgow assisted many Highland Dancers all over the world. Their children Clive and Melanie were both very successful Championship dancers. Family weekend time was spent at the Highland Games, Competitions and Championships.
May acknowledges the mentorship of Mrs. Jessie Stewart Haggarty and Miss Sadie Simpson for their support and guidance over the years.
Anne Sutherland, ScotDance Canada Past President and Independent Member