Irish Dancing

Irish dancing is a form of dance that has been around for centuries and is a staple of Irish culture. It's characterized by its fast footwork and energetic movements, and has become popular worldwide. Here are some fun facts about Irish dancing that you might find interesting.

The history of Irish dancing dates back to the Celts who used dance as a form of storytelling and entertainment. It was later popularized in the 18th and 19th centuries during the Gaelic revival in Ireland. Today, Irish dancing is enjoyed all over the world, with competitions and performances held in many countries.

The shoes worn by Irish dancers are unique and play an important role in the dance style. The hard shoes, or "heavy shoes," are made of leather with fiberglass heels and are used for the percussive footwork. The soft shoes, or "ghillies," are similar to ballet slippers and are used for the graceful, flowing movements.

The most famous form of Irish dancing is probably Riverdance, which originated as the interval act during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest. The performance was so well-received that it went on to become its own show, which has been seen by millions of people worldwide.

Irish dancing is not just for girls! While it's true that female Irish dancers often wear elaborate costumes and are more commonly seen in competitions and performances, there are also many male Irish dancers who excel in the style. In fact, Irish dancing was traditionally performed by men, and it wasn't until the 20th century that women began to participate in large numbers.

In conclusion, Irish dancing is a fascinating and unique form of dance that has a rich history and continues to be popular around the world. Whether you're interested in learning more about the culture of Ireland or just looking for a fun new hobby, Irish dancing is definitely worth checking out. Who knows, you might even discover a hidden talent for percussive footwork!

By Miss Deanna Rea