Origins, Modern, and Influence on American Dance Styles Irish Dancing Origins, Modern, and Influence on American Dance Styles

Traditional Irish Folk Dancer Speaks about Irish Dance History. History of Irish Dance Irish Dance, also called Irish Step Dancing, consists of different styles such as ‘reels’ and ‘jigs’. There are soft and hard dances, depending on the style of shoes worn - hard shoes are similar to tap shoes. Examples of styles of dances: treble reel, hard jig, hornpipe, and set dances. “St. Patrick’s Day” and “Blackbird” are specific routines all dancers learn as they progress. Irish children traditionally learn this style of dancing while young and participate in local competitions called a ‘feis’ (pronounced ‘fesh’). Champions can go on to bigger competitions and earn titles, which are highly prized to the families. Traditional musical instruments include the bagpipe, accordion, fiddle, and piano. In 1606, the English outlawed pipers, destroying their instruments because they were considered ‘war pipes’ and Ireland had recently been conquered by the English. Musicians created corn cob whistles instead.

Riverdance Riverdance - The Story Behind the Smash Hit => Michael Flatley was the first American to win the World Irish Dancing Championships. He created Riverdance, which is now a famous traveling Irish Step Dancing show and dance company. Riverdance began as a showcase 7 minute dance performance at The Eurovision Song Contest in 1993. Eurovision is the longest-running TV show song competition. He also choreographed famous numbers such as Lord of the Dance , Celtic Tiger and Feet of Flames which are also performed worldwide on the Riverdance tour. His talent, fame, and choreography created international interest in Irish dancing, especially the modern styles showcased in his work.

How Irish Step Dancing Helped Create Tap Dance Tap Dancing originated in the U.S. - it has been called the first American art form. Irish immigrants and their step dancing traditions influenced the dancing of black Americans living in New York. Tapping and stomping of feet replaced drum beats and created complex rhythms when there were no other instruments available. Tap Dancing became widely popular, especially in early film and also in the 30s and 40s on Broadway. Shirley Temple was a child movie star who frequently sang and tap-danced in her films. The shoes and foot movements are very similar to Irish dancing, with more free expression of the music using the whole body. How Tap Dancing was Made in America. The Shim Sham with Gregory Hines (famous dancer, actor, choreographer).

Jig - an Irish dance documentary (2009). Follows families from different countries with young children who will participate in the World Championship competition. Shows what modern Irish dancers must do to win a title. Traditions and modern changes in Irish dancing. Children from all over the world can now learn Irish step dancing, in part due to the success of Riverdance.