CULTURE
A HIGHLAND FLING AZERBAIJAN STYLE
Susan Lindsay, 14, of Douglas Road East left for the former Soviet republic yesterday morning (Thursday).
Their mission, paid for by oil businessmen, is to dance at the Scottish Caledonian Society's Ball in the Hyatt Hotel, Baku, on Saturday night.
Before she left, Susan told the 'News': "I'm really looking forward to it. I'm just really pleased to be asked - it's a real honour."
In particular Susan was keen to be going to another country and to the special ball.
The total group of 24 include a ceilidh band from Stirling and a pipe band from Dollar.
This morning (Friday) the dancers were scheduled to perform in an orphanage in Baku. And the group were taking out toys, clothes and other items for the children.
Next is a performance for the international school, followed by dancing at a wedding in one of the town's restaurants.
Their Saturday morning is free before they dance at the ball in the Hyatt, where they will be staying.
Sunday night will also bring another dance show from the team at a social evening in their hotel, before they all fly back on Monday.
Susan's mother Jacqueline explained the trip had come about through Duns Castle, where Susan also performs.
Mrs Lindsay said: "It's been organized since July. We'd just come home from holiday and Susan's teacher had an email on her computer - we thought it was a joke until it all started falling into place!."
She added: "Susan is high as a kite about this trip!"
Susan said: "I'm not sure what to expect" and added her friends were "really jealous!"
Of dancing she said: "It's really fun and I enjoy it and I get to go different places."
The young dancer competed in the World Championships last year and hopes to compete in them again next year in Canada.
Susan added: "I would like to teach dancing, just as an extra. I'm doing my student teachers exams next year - 14 is the youngest you can start them."