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Irish Dancing

Irish dancing came from the Celts and the Druids, before the arrival of Christianity and other outside influences. The dance took place at Religious celebrations and was accompanied by bagpipes and harps. Over time the dance evolved, from the dancers being in circles to lining up in lines and the female dancers would weave between the males dancers. By the 18th century competitions had started and in 1893 the Gaelic League was formed. This would go on to organise competitions, lessons and rules.

The costume worn consists of Hard shoes or soft shoes. The female dancers wear specially made dresses that are above the knees with pleated long sleeves and embellishments. While the male dancers wear a shirt, vest, tie and dark trousers. Costumes have become more flexible over time but still reflect the countries culture. Todays costumes reflect the clothing of the eight century of Ireland, including Celtic designs and bright colours which the ancient Irish were found of. Some dresses reflect the dresses worn by peasants and the cloak that some male dancers wear is a symbol of rebellion.

Irish dancing uses all of the elements of Movement, but I think the clearest is space. Most of the dance consists of the dancers moving around and using all the space around them. The dance is either in partners or in a big group and the dancers are usually in sync. The element of space is shown when the dancers weave in between each other and when they kick and jump.

Irish Dance has evolved a lot over the years but it is still a very popular dance and performed today.