“What is Irish Dance?” and Other Frequently Asked Questions

Solo dances can be divided into two broad categories – soft shoe and hard shoe. Each of these categories includes several different style dances, though both soft shoe dances and hard shoe dances have their own distinctive features. For example, soft shoe (also called light shoe) dances are performed in ghillies (black lace-up shoes that are often compared to ballet slippers), and focus on jumps and movement across the floor. Hard shoe (also called heavy shoe) dances are performed in shoes with fiberglass tips and heels, and emphasize rhythm and timing.

Team (ceili) dances are performed in soft shoes and are most often done in groups of two, three, four, or eight dancers. Ceili dances feature basic Irish dancing movements like “threes” and “sevens,” and also require arm movement.

While some choose to Irish dance recreationally, others dance competitively. Gilleoghan Irish Dance is accredited with the CLRG (the Irish Dancing Commission), meaning our dancers can compete at competitions (called feiseanna) authorized by the North American Feis Commission, as well as at international majors for qualified dancers. Gilleoghan Irish Dance sends many dancers to the Regional, National, and World Championships each year.

Those who are new to competing start at the Beginner level, though dancers can advance levels of competition based on their placements at feiseanna. As dancers progress, their steps and the level of technique that is required advance as well.

At competitions, most dancers wear a special solo dress, which is unique to each individual. Team dances are done in school costumes that are specific to each dance school. As curly hair has become synonymous with Irish dancing, most dancers today wear wigs for convenience, and to ensure the curls stay put after multiple rounds of competition.

Some Irish dance to celebrate their heritage, but many Irish dancers all over the world have no Irish background at all. Gilleoghan Irish Dance welcomes all students regardless of race or ethnicity. If you would like more information about Irish dancing, or would like to sign yourself or your child up for classes, contact Gilleoghan Irish Dance today. We welcome dancers of all ages and levels.