Immerse Yourself In Culture With Irish Dance Lessons

By Claudine MacDonald


As part of this year's resolutions why not put down a note to take up Irish dance lessons. The interest is bound to be sky high as Ireland has decided to declare the year a time for 'The Gathering'. This is a new promotion designed to entice the millions of people around the world with Irish ancestry into visiting. The event is all year round with plenty of festivities planned to ensure visitors have the time of their lives.

The dancing tradition of this country dates back to the time of the Druids and has undergone many changes over the centuries. In more modern times, it has received an international audience thanks to the popularity of theatrical performances like Lord of the Dance and Riverdance. The steps to such dances have even become part of the entertainment at parties. Being taught the steps in a class will make it easy to take part.

Keep in mind that control of body movement is vital when it comes to the dancing. The dancers generally only make movement with their feet and legs. The upper body and arms are usually meant to remain rigid. Performers must learn how to perform intricate steps while keeping their back straight. It does require a good amount of coordination, memory and energy.

The most common movement during traditional dancing is a series of jumps and hops. Depending on the reel, the combinations of movements will vary. The step dancing can also be further differentiated by the type of shoes worn. There is the hard shoe and the soft shoe. The soft shoe is generally worn by women. When worn by men they have additional hard material in the heel to allow for an audible click.

Among the most common dancing performances is the solo set. The performer will have to go through a certain number of movements set to the beat of the reel. The heels are often clicked in accompaniment. Another popular performance is set dancing where four couples are arranged in a square arrangement. At social events, Ceili dancing is very popular as it allows for many more performers. Up to sixteen persons can take part in this fast paced performance with intricate steps.

Ceili performances are a big hit at parties where they can be the only form of dancing or have been combined with set dances. When the occasion is more formal, set dancing will play a more predominant role. Irish dance lessons help to ensure you are familiar with the more popular movements to each performance, including those often performed at contests.

While travelling around the country, it is evident that dancing is not limited to just the traditional forms. There are many performances that were adapted from foreign steps such as the waltz. Do not be surprised to find people performing them with aspects of the culture interlaced, such as the set dancing.

Whether you turn up on St. Patrick's Day or any other time of the year, be sure to utilize your Irish dance lessons as you soak in the culture. The lessons are available in most countries, and are a great way to learn something fun and make new friendships. Commit to your classes and you will also feel yourself getting fitter.




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