Deeply rooted in the country's cultural heritage, Irish dance is a true institution in Ireland. Drawing from multiple cultural influences, this folk dance is a source of pride for the Irish people. Discover what Irish dance is, its history and different forms, as well as the best places to watch an Irish dance performance during a trip to Ireland.

A Little History...

The exact origins of Irish dance are unknown, but it is known that this type of dance draws its roots from a fabulous blend of influences stemming from population movements and migrations.

The earliest traces of Irish dance date back to Celtic communities. Indeed, druids practiced ritual dances, with dancing as a key element. These were circular dances performed around sacred trees to honor the sun and nature. Dance was notably practiced during "feis," celebrations featuring various demonstrations (sports, storytelling, political discussions, music, dance...).

Subsequently, Irish dance evolved through multiple influences. Among them were the Normans, who brought their own touch with "Carol" dancing, which involves forming a circle of dancers with a singer and leader in the middle.

Beleaguered during English rule, Irish dance managed to resist attempts at oppression and eventually became a symbol of resistance and national identity. Irish immigrants returning from English-speaking countries (the United States, Canada, Australia...) also added their own flair to Irish dance.

More recently, Irish dance experienced a resurgence of interest during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, in which the Riverdance troupe performed a number of Irish Tap Dancing. It was thanks to this performance that we owe the show The Lord of the Dance, which continues to enjoy international success today.

What About Irish Dance Costumes?

The costumes used for Irish dance performances commemorate clothing from the past. They are mostly the clothes worn by farmers, herders, and peasants, or traditional Irish garments. Examples include embroidered peasant dresses with Celtic designs for women or kilts for men.

What Is Irish Dance?

Irish dance is characterized by a particular posture: the upper body remains straight and rigid with very little arm movement, with the arms staying straight and tense along the body, while the lower body works to perform rapid, precise, and fluid foot and leg movements. To execute leg movements at a dizzying speed, dancers must have excellent coordination and good physical endurance.

Although there are several types of Irish dance (see further in the article), there are two main techniques that describe how to use the movements of the lower body. These are "Ballet Up" and "Flat Down."

Did You Know?

Irish dance is closely linked to traditional Irish music. Most often, it is accompanied by music with the rhythm of jigs, reels, and hornpipes.

What Are the Different Types of Irish Dance?

There are 6 styles of Irish dance, here are their characteristics:

1. Traditional Step Dancing

Traditional Step Dancing is performed with an upright and rigid posture. Only the feet and legs move. Dancers execute rapid foot movements with ballet flats or tap shoes. Ballet flats allow for aerial jumps and light, rapid movements, while tap shoes emphasize rhythm and provide a sonorous performance. As for the steps, these are a series of strikes alternating between the heels and toes of the feet.

Good to Know:

There are two types of shoes used for different types of Irish dance:

• Soft shoes: also called "ghillies" for girls and "reel shoes" for boys, these are soft leather shoes (like ballet flats) laced at the front;

• Hard shoes: these are shoes made of stiffer leather with reinforced tips and heels (in resin, fiberglass...) to obtain the characteristic sound of Irish tap shoes.

2. Modern Step Dancing

Unlike traditional Step Dancing, which is performed to traditional music, modern Step Dancing can be performed to modern music. Using ballet technique, it combines different traditional elements with more contemporary dance steps and techniques. You may even see some upper body movements, particularly broad arm movements and trunk rotations.

3. Set Dancing

As its name suggests, Set Dancing is Irish dance performed in sets (series). Following the Flat Down technique, this folk dance is a social dance because it is performed in a group. For this, four couples are arranged to face each other (in a square, for example). From there, a series of steps are executed, such as the jig step or the polka step.

Note:

Set Dancing is an Irish dance traditionally danced at céilí balls or in pubs.

4. Céilí Dancing

Céilí Dancing is one of the Irish dances practiced in groups using the Ballet Up technique. Dancers can be arranged in different ways:

• in lines, that is, when dancers are aligned (also called longways sets),

• in a square or quadrille formation (called square sets),

• in a circle (called céilí dances).

The dance steps depend on the rhythm set by the music. This can be jigs, polka steps, and guided tap movements... As its name suggests, Céilí Dancing is traditionally danced at céilí balls.

5. Sean-Nós Dancing

Sean-Nós Dancing is performed as a solo. Unlike other types of Irish dance, this one is freer as it does not focus solely on the lower body. Indeed, dancers can perform arm movements, variations, and body twists.

6. Riverdance

Originally a show, Riverdance is a traditional Irish ballet that has toured the world to the point of creating its own dance style. Combining tap dancing, singing, and Celtic music, the show's choreography brings together traditional dance steps with some contemporary elements. What creates a sensation at every performance? The incredible synchronicity of the dancers. One thing is certain: it is THE most famous Irish dance show in the world.

Where to Watch Irish Dance Performances During a Trip to Ireland?

Looking to watch an Irish dance performance during your trip to Ireland? Dublin is where you'll find some of the finest performances. These typically take place in theaters, hotels, and Irish pubs.

Among the best places to watch an Irish dance performance in Dublin, we recommend:

• Belvedere Hotel Irish Nights,

• Taylor's Irish Night,

• O'Neill's Pub & Kitchen,

• Hotel Arlington (Celtic nights),

• The Hooley Show,

• Murray's Pub,

• The Irish House Party.

As for the most famous shows to discover around the world (in Ireland and elsewhere depending on dates), there is the legendary Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, Trad on the Prom, Irish Celtic, Spirit of Ireland, and Gaelforce Dance.

What Are the Irish Festivals Not to Miss for Seeing Irish Dance?

In addition to performances and shows in Irish pubs‌, experience the magic of Irish dance at a festival! A chance to immerse yourself in Irish culture and share memorable moments with locals.

Among the must-see events, we recommend:

• The Gathering Traditional Festival: a renowned festival of traditional music and dance, held annually in the town of Killarney (next dates: February 5-9, 2025);

• The Galway Arts Festival: an event held annually in July in Galway that celebrates Irish arts in all their forms (next dates: July 14-27, 2025);

• The Fleadh Cheoil: a traditional music festival where Irish dance is featured. It takes place annually at different locations. (Next dates: August 3-10, 2025 in Wexford);

• The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaker Festival: an Irish cultural event held in the village of Lisdoonvarna aimed at allowing singles to find love through Irish dance (next dates: throughout September 2025)...

Need help organizing your trip to Ireland? Not sure how to go about watching an Irish dance performance? Don't hesitate to contact us to plan your trip and organize your activities according to your wishes and budget!