Irish Step Dancing: I Will Learn it, Someday!
Traditional Irish Step Dancing Dress
History of the Irish Step Dance
Irish Step Dancing is a relatively modern creation, considering the history behind other "folk dancing". Irish Step Dancing was created during the 18th and 19th century. Dance masters of the Long and Round Dances, elaborated dance moves, making foot patterns more intricate and quicker. The Catholic and Protestant churches condemned dancing, believing it was an "indulgence". Before 1893, costumes probably just consisted of peasant dresses. And, if it were Sunday or some other special occassion, women would "dress up" their dresses with ribbons. After 1893, the costume was constructed out of a shawl and ribbon tied around the waistline.
The colors of early costumes were mainly green. Male costumes have been "toned down". Embroidery, before the early 1900s, was keep to a minimum. Now, modern interpretations of "old" patterns are embroidered on solo dresses.
Interestingly, males and females danced bare-footed until the year 1924. Shoes were then introduced for the Reel and Jig dances.
Step Dances: 4 Types
There are 4 types of Irish Step Dances that are:
1. The Solo, otherwise known as "The Reel"
2. The Light Jig
3. The Slip Jig
4. The Hornpipe
Costumes
Every school of Irish Dancing has their own costume. Costumes will differ from region-to-region, from county-to-county, across the United States, Ireland, and the world. When a dancer reaches a certain level, in active competition, they receive a solo dress. This dress is made of velvet with satin linings, and lots of embroidery. The highly skilled individual who receives this dress, is an expert in their area of dance. This dress is worn during solo and team competitions. The receiver can buy several solo dresses. The dresses must be made in Ireland..
Dancing Commission
The Irish Dancing Commission, which covers all areas of Irish dancing, is called the An Coimisun le Rinci Gaelacha, and is located in Ireland. This commission sets up all the rules and guidelines for teaching and competing. If someone is interested in teaching Irish Step Dancing, they must competitively qualify and register with the commission.
Why Do I Want to Learn this Form of Dance
Hi...thanks for dropping in...by the way. I guess you probably are wondering why I want to learn this form of dancing. OK, I imagine you have seen Riverdance, or Lord of the Dance, and you think, "Gee...that looks pretty hard. I wonder why she'd want to learn something like that?" Well, first of all, let me say, I will never be that good at dancing. But, I just want to learn for myself. I guess it's just a small part of me wishing to "re-discover myself". Plus, it's a heck of a work-out.
Just in Case You're Interested....
Come See Riverdance
Come See Lord of the Dance
