More on Irish Dance

Ever since Riverdance captured the hearts of so many, Irish dancing has made its presence known at every opportunity.  One type of the Irish dancing steps is called céilí.  Céilí is a term that is often used for a social gathering that features Irish music and dance.  However, it is also a specific Irish dance.  It can be performed in a long line of couples or in circles.  It looks like a fun way to dance.  I wish I knew how to do it. 

There also hardshoe and softshoe step dancing.  When the dancers have their hardshoes on, I feel like the dancers are beating their own drums.  The steps are like their own music.  It is a powerful dance.  The soft shoe dancing is a fast form of step dancing.  The girls in their softshoes appear to be floating along like a fairy.  Their legs and feet move so quickly and their jumps are so high that the dancers appear light as a feather.  Knowing how my legs move, I can only imagine how much training and work it takes for the dancers to give the appearance of happily floating along.

One of my other favorite parts of Irish dancing is the outfits the girls wear.  They are spectacular.  Each dancer has her own mix of colors and designs (unless she is a part of a group - then they all match).  The girls also make their hair as curly as possible.  From what I have seen, curly hair and spectaular dress are a must for competitive Irish dancing.

A picture from a the championship of Irish dancing in Belfast.  The dresses are gorgeous!

If you have never gotten the pleasure of seeing Irish dancing, then I am pleased to tell you that we will have Irish dancers on the kids' stage!  Dancers from the Driscoll School of Irish Dance will be performing on Saturday at 4:30 and on Sunday at 4:15.  Make sure you cheer them on as they perform for you!!!