Irish dancing refers broadly to a group of  traditional dance styles that originated in Ireland centuries ago, which includes both group social dance as well as solo dance styles.  Irish social dancing styles include set and céili (pronounced KAY-LEE) dancing.   Irish set dances are called quadrilles, which are always danced by four couples in a square arrangement.   Unlike Amercian square dancing that requires a caller, sets progress through a predetermined sequence of figures.   Céili dancing is similar in this regard, except that the figures and the number of participants are more varied.

 

Irish step dancing is a more formal style that is likely more familiar to most people, owing to the popularity of stage shows like Riverdance that feature this style. Step dancing can be performed by male and female dancers, either solo or in groups, and includes both percussive (heavy shoe) and non-percussive (soft shoe) dances.    Step dancing is distinctive from other traditional Irish dance styles in that the dancer's upper body is kept rigid while performing quick and complex footwork (See it here!).    Although they have evolved considerably from their traditional roots, the costumes worn by male and female stepdancers are designed to show off the dancer's footwork and typically feature intricate celtic-inspired motifs.  

 

Dance teachers are certified by a governing body, An Coimisiún Le Rinci Gaelacha (CLRG; which in the Irish gaelic language translates to: The Irish Dancing Commission), that is responsible for maintaining adherance to high standards.  CLRG is also responsible for qualifying and certifying Irish dance teachers through a grueling examination process that tests both their knowledge of traditional Irish dance and their teaching ability.  Those that pass the exams are awarded the certification of TCRG (Teagascóir Choimisiún le Rinci Gaelacha, meaning "commissioned Irish dance teacher").   TCRG's that meet additional requirements and have acheived a level of mastery in teaching Irish dance may be qualified to sit for a higher examination for the certification of ADCRG (Ard Diploma Choimisiún le Rinci Gaelacha;  the Irish dancing equivalent of a doctoral degree), which qualifies these certified teachers to also adjudicate CLRG-sanctioned Irish dance competitions.