Where Can I Learn Irish Dance in Ireland?
One highlight many people look forward to during their Ireland vacation is seeing Irish dancers. But many people want to take their experience a step further and learn Irish step dancing.
This question is one I receive quite a lot.
We are traveling to Ireland this summer with our 2 daughters. I would love to explore a step dancing lesson for them during our trip. We are still finalizing our itinerary, but I am curious if this type of opportunity exists at all and if so where might be worth exploring.
A Little About Irish Dance
Both of my daughters have been involved in Irish dance since they were 5 and it was quite an education for me when my eldest began taking lessons.
When students begin learning Irish dance they start in a soft shoe, called a ghillie, which is similar to a ballet shoe, but with laces. Hard shoes, like everyone knows from Riverdance, aren't introduced for at least a year, and are introduced slowly, as each movement must be very precise.
Learning Irish dance, much like ballet or tap, isn't something that can be done in an afternoon, though a few basic steps can be achieved.
Where You Can Learn Irish Dance in Ireland
A quick search for Irish dance in Ireland yields quite a few Irish dance schools and some fun Irish nights. But there are only a couple locations where a tourist can receive dance instruction.
The first is The Irish Dance Experience in Galway. This fun ‘dance class' was create by Siobhan Manson, a former principal dancer with Riverdance. In her relaxed studio you will learn traditional ceili (kaylee) dancing, sean-nós brush dancing, as well as some of those incredible Riverdance steps!
Learn more about the Irish Dance Experience on the Traveling in Ireland podcast!
If you won't be in Galway the next best spot to pick up a few steps is at the Irish Dance Party in Dublin. Located in Temple Bar this immersive experience features live music and dance performances before teaching you three simple Irish dances. The event takes place in the afternoon and lasts 2 hours, making it a terrific family activity.
The most fun place to pick up a few steps, or even a full ceili dance, is at a local festival. Many festivals in Ireland include music- and where there is music you will find dancing. While it's likely you may find a local social dancing club taking part in the festivities but even if you don't you can hop in and have fun – there is usually someone who is willing to show you the steps.
You may also be able to pick up a few steps in a pub during an evening session.
Organized Ceili Dancing
Many of Ireland's rural areas have public ceili dancing events. Cairde Rince Céilí na hÉireann (ceili dancing friends in Ireland) has a list that is updated regularly. They also list affiliate clubs – these may allow visitors.
It never hurst to ask around when you are visiting a place for a few days. You can ask if there is ceili or crossroads dancing happening soon.
Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (Gathering of Musicians of Ireland) has a number of listed events across Ireland that include music, dance, and sports that may be worth checking out.
If you won't be visiting Ireland but would like to try ceili dancing, search for a local Irish Fest. You're likely to find music and dancers there to offer some tips!
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