Archives: FAQs

Lots of children start Irish Dancing not knowing anyone. Irish dancing is a very sociable hobby where children make lots of new friends outside of school. There will be lots of children around the same age as your child and he/she will be learning in a fun environment.

Rachel will be having a class costumed designed in the near future in which all dancers will wear whilst competing. Until your child reaches a certain level, the beginner’s costume information below will be perfectly suitable.

Beginner costume:

• Black leotard
• Black skirt
• Poodle socks

Irish dancers wear “light shoes” and “heavy shoes” If you would like to purchase a pair of light shoes for your child, please speak to Rachel about brands and prices. There is a website under the “links” section called ‘ The Irish Jig Shop’ where all dance needs are for sale. You can also purchase used shoes online which may be more cost effective.

Beginner dancers will only learn light shoe dances: Reel, Light Jig, Single Jig and Slip Jig, until Rachel feels your child is ready to move onto learning ‘heavy shoes’ dances. The timescale for this may vary depending on your child’s progression.

A feis (pronounced FESH) is an Irish dance competition. There are many competitions held in London throughout the year. If you think your child would be interested in competing, please talk to Rachel. She will advise you when your child is ready and where to go from there. A schedule of competitions throughout London and England will be available online for you to view at a later date. Also under the “links “ section is a website called “irish-dancer”. Here you will find lots of hints and tips as to what to expect from a Feis.

Normal class attire includes shorts, t-shirts, socks and shoes. Beginners may wear light P.E school plimsoles/ballet pumps or may learn in bare feet. Socks alone are not permitted for safety reasons.