Irish Dance

Irish Dance is the collective name for the form of dance which developed in Ireland. Irish Dance is divided into social dances, called Ceilis and solo dances which are used for performance and competition. Ceili dances can also be used for competition but solo dances are far more common. Irish Solo dancing has been popularized by shows like Riverdance, and what was once a little known cultural activity has become a competitive and taxing sport.

Irish Solo Dancing

Irish solo dances are dances used for competitions and performances, which as their name implies are performed by one person. Solo dancing is easily recognizable by the straight arms and upper body's of the dancers. The movements of the feet are very precise, and it is important that the feet are turned out and crossed at all times.

Irish solo dances are performed in two types of shoes. Soft shoes, also called ghillies or pumps, and hard shoes, which are also called hornpipe shoes. The soft shoes for girls are made of soft black leather and have four pairs of loops along the sides. The laces are crossed back and forth across the foot through these loops and tied around the ankle. Soft shoes for boys are similar to jazz shoes. Hard shoes are identical for boys and girls. They have fiberglass heels and tips, which are used to make the percussive steps.