1. Home
  2. Hobbies & Games
  3. Dance

What is Irish dance?

By , About.com Guide

Question: What is Irish dance?
Answer: Irish dance is a type of traditional dance form that originated in Ireland. Irish dance can be divided between social Irish dance and performance Irish dance. Irish social dances include céilí and set dancing. Irish céilí dances are danced in various formations of couples from 2 to 16 people. Irish set dances are danced inquadrilles, or 4 couples arranged in a square formation.

Irish performance dance is traditionally known as stepdance, popularized by the famous "Riverdance" show. Stepdance is known for its rapid leg movements and stationary body and arms. Solo stepdances can be performed in soft shoes or hard shoes.

More Dance Q&A

Explore Dance

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Scrapbook Technique Gallery

Use these ideas to inspire your own uniquely beautiful pages. More >

  1. Home
  2. Hobbies & Games
  3. Dance
  4. More Dance Styles
  5. Irish Dance - What Is Irish Dance

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.