What is Irish Dancing?

Fast, lively, and bursting with energy, there really is something magical about Irish dancing. For many, Irish dancing is one of the most memorable parts of visiting Ireland, and for good reason! Known for its quick footwork, strong posture, and toe-tapping music, Irish dancing is as much about storytelling as it is about music and movement.

In this blog, our team at The Temple Bar Pub is taking a closer look at what Irish dancing really is, where it comes from, the different styles, and how you can experience it right here in Dublin. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a live dance!

The History of Irish Dancing

Irish dancing goes back hundreds of years, right to the heart of Ireland’s story. Some of the earliest forms of Irish dance are thought to have been part of Celtic rituals and celebrations, where dancing played an important role in marking seasonal festivals and special occasions.

Over time, Irish dance became more structured, and by the 18th and 19th centuries, dance masters travelled from town to town, teaching steps in kitchens, barns, and even crossroads. These informal lessons helped keep Irish culture alive during times when the Irish culture, including language and other traditions, was being suppressed.

Fast forward to 1994, and Irish dancing was catapulted onto the world stage with Riverdance. What started as a seven-minute intermission act during the Eurovision Song Contest quickly became a global phenomenon. With incredible footwork, powerful music, and dramatic stage presence, Riverdance introduced a whole new audience to the beauty and power of Irish dance.

Today, Irish dancing continues to evolve while staying close to its roots. It’s celebrated not just in Ireland, but across the world, proving that a good rhythm and a strong step can speak every language!

Different Types of Irish Dancing

Irish dancing isn’t just one style of dance, it comes in a few different forms, each with its own rhythm, steps, and energy.

Step Dancing is probably the most recognisable Irish Dance. It’s usually performed solo, with dancers wearing special hard or soft shoes. It’s all about fast, precise footwork and staying perfectly upright. Think hands by your side, and feet moving like lightning!

Ceili Dancing (pronounced “kay-lee”), is the more social, fun and light-hearted side of Irish dancing. Done in groups, often in circles or lines, this is the kind of dancing you might find at festivals, weddings, or community gatherings.

Then there’s Sean-nós Dancing, a more relaxed, traditional style that’s all about improvisation. It’s a bit looser in form, danced close to the ground, and often accompanied by live music in a casual setting. 

Each style adds something different to the culture, but all of them are full of life and share the same energetic and expressive spirit.

What Do Irish Dancers Wear?

One of the most eye-catching parts of Irish dancing is the costumes. Whether it’s the sparkling dresses, the curly wigs, or the crisp white socks, dancers are always dressed to impress.

For female Irish Dancers, traditional Irish dance dresses are often worn. They’re bright, detailed, and usually hand-embroidered with intricate Celtic symbols, designed to stand out on stage, moving beautifully as the dancer performs. Wigs and tiaras are also worn at competitions, adding to the iconic Irish dancing look.

Male Irish Dancers usually wear a shirt, tie, and waistcoat or jacket with trousers and dance shoes. The look is smart and simple, and lets their footwork do the talking.

Footwear worn for Irish Dancing really depends on the dance itself. For example, soft shoes (like ballet slippers) are used for light dances, while hard shoes (similar to tap shoes) create that famous clicking rhythm you hear in certain dances.

You don’t need the full outfit to enjoy Irish dance, of course, but if you ever go to a competition or show, the Irish dancing costumes definitely add to the magic!

Where to See Irish Dancing in Dublin

If you’re visiting Dublin and want to experience Irish dancing up close, you’re in luck! The city is full of opportunities to see it live, from quaint pubs to large venues. For a real theatrical experience, keep an eye out for Riverdance performances at Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre an unforgettable night out.

You can also check out TradFest in that takes place every January, where traditional Irish music and dance take over venues across Temple Bar and beyond. And if you’re looking for a casual Ceili dance or a community event, check local listings or cultural centres. There’s always something happening in Dublin City!

Irish Dancing Around the World

Irish dancing isn’t just popular in Ireland, it’s actually celebrated all over the world. From the United States and Canada to Australia, Argentina, and Japan, Irish dance schools and communities are keeping the tradition alive far beyond Irish shores.

Competitions like the World Irish Dancing Championships brings together dancers from dozens of countries to perform, connect, and celebrate Irish culture. It’s beautiful to see how something so deeply rooted in Ireland has found a home in hearts across the globe.

Where to Try Irish Dancing?

Irish dancing might look tricky, but you don’t have to be a pro to give it a try. Plenty of dance schools and community centres in Dublin and beyond offer beginner classes, even for visitors who just want to try it once.

There are also often ceilí nights across the Ireland, where the steps are simple, the music is lively, and everyone is welcome. You don’t need fancy shoes or a costume, just openness to have a bit of craic and maybe laugh at your own two left feet!

Irish dancing is so much more than just quick steps and fancy footwork. It’s a living tradition, full of history. It’s a part of Irish culture that we’re proud to share.

So next time you’re in Dublin, keep your eyes (and ears!) open. You never know when a tune will start and the dancing shoes will come out. And if you happen to be nearby, you’re always welcome at The Temple Bar Pub. Sláinte!

Thank you for reading our blog ‘What is Irish Dancing?’. We hope to see you at The Temple Bar Pub soon.