The Sallyport Sword Dancers are a rapper sword dance team, founded in 1969, who perform the traditional rapper sword dances of the North-East of England. The rapper sword dance tradition is one of taking the dance to the people, usually when they are trying to enjoy an otherwise undisturbed pint somewhere. Sallyport are at the heart of this tradition; the dance is at home in the pubs, and so are Sallyport. Of course, we also do our share of more cultural events, such as folk festivals, weddings, bar-mitsvahs and miners' galas.

The traditional dances currently performed by Sallyport are those of Newbiggin, Winlaton, Beadnell, Murton and Swalwell. These dances each have a distinctive style and character, lending diversity to our repertoire

We are based at the Cumberland Arms in the Byker district of Newcastle. We hold regular practices, usually in a pub somewhere in the East end of Newcastle. If you are interested in joining, or perhaps not sure whether you are, turning up at a practice is a good way to make contact. The best thing to do is to get in touch first to find out where and when the next practice is. Newcomers are always assured of a warm welcome and will generally be given the chance to have a go if they wish.