Irish Dance

Irish dance is a traditional dance from Ireland. Dancers are known for their fast, precise footwork. They keep their arms straight at their sides. The quick tapping of their feet makes exciting rhythms. Irish dance became famous around the world through the show Riverdance.

Types of Irish Dance

There are two main types of Irish dance shoes. Soft shoes are like ballet slippers and are used for light, graceful dances. Hard shoes have thick soles and make loud tapping sounds. Dancers in hard shoes sound like drummers with their feet. Both types take years of practice.

Irish Dance Around the World

Irish dance became world-famous in 1994 when the show Riverdance appeared on TV. Millions of people watched and were amazed. Irish dance schools opened in many countries. Today, dancers from all over the world compete in Irish dance championships. The World Irish Dancing Championships are held every year.

Fun Facts

• Riverdance started as a short act during a TV song contest and became a world-famous show.
• Irish dancers keep their arms straight because dances were once performed in small spaces.
• Some Irish hard shoe dancers can tap their feet over 20 times per second.

Did You Know?

One reason Irish dancers keep their arms stiff at their sides may be because the dances were once performed on tabletops or in tiny rooms!