Music and dancing have always been a part of my life. As a child, I took ballet lessons and tap dancing, and loved them both. I loved ballet because the dance was so graceful and the music so passionate. I loved tap dancing because I loved the rhythmic sound when the taps hit the floor.
Unfortunately, life got in the way and I quit dancing somewhere before middle school and have only dabbled in it here and there since. I joke sometimes saying in my next life I want to be an Irish step dancer.
Luckily, every so often we come across great opportunities to learn something new.
Irish Step Dancing Workshop
The Vt. School of Irish Traditional Music is excited to offer a very special afternoon event presented by two of the most admired sean-nós dancers in the country, Jackie O’Riley, and Rebecca McGowan.
Date: Sunday, February 9th
Time: Film 1:30-2:15, Dance workshop 2:30 – 4pm
Location: Four Corners Schoolhouse 945 Vincent Flats Rd., East Montpelier, VT
Schedule for the afternoon is as follows:
1:30- 2:15: Free film showing and discussion. (Film can be purchased at the showing or online). Open to all, audience limit of 50.
The film being shown, “From the Floor”, presents traditional Irish dance, as a “visual album”, with video tracks that bring the viewer into the detailed space that dancers and musicians inhabit when they are making music for each other.
2:30 – 4 PM: Dance workshop. $20, advance registration required. Participant limit: 30.
Following the film screening, Jackie and Rebecca will offer a sean-nós dance workshop. Sean-nós Irish dance is improvised, rhythmic, and expressive step dancing, closely tied to traditional music. The footwork is low to the ground and accessible to dancers of all ages and abilities.
Both beginner and intermediate levels will be offered. Please bring a pair of flat hard-soled shoes.
To register for the dance workshop, please message, or contact us by email at benedictandhilari@gmail.com. Once the email is received you’ll get instructions on how to complete your registration. Payment in advance is required.
Here’s a little taste:
Session Obsession 