Fiercely independent, unruly and warlike, the Cossacks were a sub-ethnic group of free fighting men which developed on the steppes of south Russia and Ukraine.

Originally composed of runaway serfs and adventurers who had fled oppression and poverty, they elected their leaders and built strongholds in no-man's lands beyond the control of government, free of law and taxes.

With a reputation for excelling in military skills, Cossacks often protected the southern borders of expanding Poland and Russia in exchange for recognition of freedoms and privileges that distinguished them from the peasantry.

Under the Soviet Union, they didn't fit in with the state structure or ideology and more than two million of them were killed or deported, some as far as the Arctic Circle.

However, since the Soviet Union's collapse, clubs have sprung up and Cossack unions are pushing to have their militaristic role restored.

The group developed their own customs and ways of life over the years, the legacy of which lives through their folk songs and dress, the ideal of a free life and their flamboyant dances.

Described as the portrayal of Cossack courage through sound and movement, the traditional folk dance characteristically goes at a furious pace with dynamic sword fights, whirlwind gypsy dances and knee-cracking acrobatics.

The vivacious get-down-low-and-kick-your-heels-up-style steps are interspersed with slightly odd facial contortions and grimaces in a unique and explosively passionate type of dance.

This is the first UK concert tour from the State Dance Company, which is widely acknowledged as Russia's premier Cossack dance troupe.

The 40 dancers, musicians and singers will perform a high-energy two-hour programme wearing elaborate period costumes and retelling Cossack histories through depictions of battle, glory, love and betrayal.

Previous UK appearances include a BBC televised performance at the Edinburgh Festival and military tattoo in August 2001 and a season at Sadler's Wells theatre in London last spring.

The show starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £17.50-£19.50. Call 01273 709709