Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, our Ceili Dancing Classes are a fun way to connect with Irish heritage and experience the infectious energy of traditional music and dance!
What is Ceili Dancing?
Ceili dancing is a traditional form of folk dance that has been a cornerstone of Irish culture for centuries. The name is derived from the Gaelic word “ceilidh,” which means a social gathering. This form of dance is deeply rooted in community and celebration. It is characterised by its lively, rhythmic movements, intricate footwork, and the joyous spirit of camaraderie it brings to participants.
Groups of four to sixteen dancers typically perform ceili dances, accompanied by traditional Irish music. Dancers use various formations, including circles, lines, and squares, with unique choreography that generations have passed down.
One of the distinguishing features of ceili dancing is its accessibility. Unlike more competitive forms of Irish dance, such as step dancing, ceili dancing welcomes dancers of all skill levels. It emphasizes the social experience as much as the dance itself, making it a popular choice for adults.
Rural Irish communities trace the origins of ceili dancing to gatherings in homes, barns, or crossroads where people danced and socialised. Over time, enthusiasts formalised these dances, particularly during the Gaelic revival of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, ceili dancing thrives both in Ireland and among Irish diaspora communities around the world, showcasing a vibrant expression of cultural identity and tradition.
Who are classes for?
Our adult classes are for adults that are interested in learning Ceili Dancing. We welcome those that may have danced before as children and want to get back to it. But we are always looking for new dancers to join and classes are also suitable for complete beginners.
What dances do you do at classes?
At our classes we practice the basic 123 step and sidestep that are needed for Ceili Dancing.
We teach dances from Ár Rincí Fóirne. This is a book of 30 Ceili Dances that have been written down and formalised.
Some of the dances that we teach include: The Four-Hand Reel, High-Cauled Cap, Morris Reel, The Sweets of May, Eight-Hand Reel.
What are your class details?
Our classes run on a Monday evening in Luttrellstown Community Centre in Dublin 15. They run from 8:30pm until 10pm. Cost is €80 for 8 weeks.
Classes don’t run every week due to teachers’ other commitments so make sure you register for the class so you get the information on dates etc.
How can I register?
You can register by filling in our Google Form here and we will be in touch with more information.