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competitions

Irish step dancing has very precise rules about what one may and may not do and when, but within these rules there is almost infinite room for variety and innovation. That makes Irish step dancing a vibrant and constantly evolving art form.

Irish solo dancing is characteristic for unique habit of keeping upper body stiff and the arms by the sides, while legs and feet perform quick, intricate movements. Irish dancing has many styles for example „sean nós“ (old style) dancing, the ancestor of today’s contemporary style, which was characteristic with relaxed body and arms.

At the turn of the last century, dance master had his students compete with arms held firmly down to their sides, hands in fists, in order to call more attention to the intricacy of the steps. The adjudicator approved by placing the students well. Other teachers and dancers quickly followed the new trend. Movement of the arms is sometimes incorporated into modern Irish step dance, although this is generally seen as a hybrid and non-traditional addition.

In the world of Irish dancing there exist several organizations, which establish rules for teaching, competing and judging the competition. The biggest, oldest and the world-wide spread out organization is An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha, which is based in Dublin in Ireland.

All the information that follows is based solely on rules set by An Coimisiún and therefore may differ from practise accepted by other organizations.

Regional competition is called Feis (Feisanna-in plural), championships Oireachtas. These competitions are divided into different age groups at four levels – from the beginners to the most advanced dancers. Competition rules are given by the organization, not by individual competition. Dancer is allowed to participate in An Coimisiún registered competition only if she/he is regularly prepared by a qualified teacher (T.C.R.G.), or conditional teacher (Temporary/Conditional Teachers), registered under An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha. Competitors are judged by certified adjudicators (A.D.C.R.G.).

What is An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha?

An Coimisiún (The Irish Dancing Commission) was founded by Conradh Na Gaeilge (The Gaelic League, which had as its objectives the promotion of all aspects of Irish culture) in 1929 and is still under the patronage of Conradh. An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha was established as a commission for the purpose of examining the organisation of Irish dancing as it existed at that time and to make recommendations as to how it might be better organised in the future.

It was An Coimisiún which first established a standard for teachers, and later for adjudicators, of Irish dancing, published a handbook of Céilí dances, and established Oireachtas an Rince, as it was then known, as a separate event.

Although there are other Irish Dancing bodies in existence, An Coimisiún is the most respected, given its long history, worldwide presence, and high standards of excellence in Irish Dancing.

DANCE ORGANIZATIONS

DANCE LEVELS

BEGINNERS / Bún Grád

Open to all dancers who have never competed at Feis before. Then those, who have never placed up to the 3rd place at this level. If you win 1st, 2nd or 3rd place in a certain dance, you move to the next level just in that particular dance. Dances consist of basic steps.

PRIMARY / Tús Grád

This level starts showing slightly challenging step combinations. All dancers who know primary combinations and those, who won 1st – 3rd place in beginners dances fall into this level. To move to the next (Intermediate) level dancer must win first place!!!

INTERMEDIATE / Meán Grád

Ladies usually start competing in their first own solo costumes on this level. To move to the last (Open) level dancer must win the first place!!! Dances already include difficult step combinations, which need concentration, precision and sharpness and so on.

OPEN / Ard-Ghrád

The highest and therefore the best dance level. Many dancers dance there for several years and show very good dance standard, which motivates new-coming dancers to work and improve their level as well.

Dancers on this level have chance to compete at various championships (for the World championship they first have to pass the regional qualifying, which is organized annually, usually in autumn).

Open dancer who haven’t won during the past year can decide to move back to Intermediate level at the beginning of the next year.

Every level is divided into different age categories, every dancer compete with his/her peers. Age is taken as on 1st January of every year.

COMPETITION TYPES

Dancers compete in solo dancing, in soft and hard shoes, in ceilí dances listed in book of 30 popular Ceilí dances (Ár Rinci Fóirne), then in figure dances and dance drama.

SOLO DANCING

In this category there is usually the largest amount of dancers. At most feisanna, dancers can choose from a list of offered dances. At championships, dances are mostly given.

Generally we compete in these dances:

Light (soft) shoesHard (heavy) shoes
REELHEAVY JIG
LIGHT JIGHORNPIPE
SLIP JIGTRAD. SET DANCE
SINGLE JIG REEL

Metronomic speeds for each dance are given by An Coimisiún (valid from 1st of April 2006)

BEGINNERSPRIMARY INTERMEDIATE OPEN
REEL128-130116-118113113
LIGHT JIG 116
SINGLE JIG 124
SLIP JIG124 120113 113
HEAVY JIG96827373
HORNPIPE144130113113

TRADITIONAL SET DANCES

ST.PATRICK’S DAY96
THE BLACKBIRD144
JOB OF JOURNEYWORK138
GARDEN OF DAISIES138
KING OF THE FAIRIES130
THREE SEA CAPTAINS96
JOCKEY TO THE FAIR90

Dancers are accompanied by one or two musicians and there are exactly 40 bars of music given to each dance. In these cases dancers follow judge’s bell. 2 or 3 dancers who dance certain dance come to the stage at one time. Judge rings the bell at the end, which means he/she is also giving a musician sign to stop. Dancers bow and then walk back to the spot, where they started from, waiting for next bell ring, then bow to judge, musician and gracefully leave the stage. The next dancers come up to a stage usually after the first bow. Sometimes when there are a large number of competitors, length of the dance is shortened to 32 bars and it works as follow: a whole line of dancers get ready on the stage and then 2 or 3 dancers dance certain dance at the time and after which they return back to the line. Next dancers follow fluently without the music stopping, while their first preparatory 8 bars start with previous dancer’s last 8 bars (to not loose too much time). At the end, the whole line bows to judge, musician and leave the stage. At major championships, the length of dances is slightly different. Treble jig and Reel are strictly set on 48 bars, Hornpipe and Slip jig on 40 bars. Music for beginners is relatively agile, but slows down to respect tricky steps at every higher level. Speed is given by number of bars per minute.

Apart from individual dances, it is usually possible to participate in LIGHT TROPHY competition, where a dancer either has a chance to choose between soft shoe dances (reel, slip jig) or is given a particular dance, or sometimes dancer can choose just one step, depending on rules of each competition. There also exist HEAVY TROPHY competitions, where a competitor either chooses between heavy jig and hornpipe, in higher level also set dance or again is given a particular dance.

Another part of feisanna is a competition in TRADITIONAL SET DANCES. The most common dances are St.Patrick’s Day and The Blackbird, then Job of Journeywork, Garden of Daisies, Three Sea Captains and Jockey to the Fair. These dances are showed in hard shoes and it is known that the same steps are danced in every school (with possible differences in technique).

OPEN SET DANCE competitions are the most common at championships everywhere. Compared to Traditional set dances, these dances are created by a teacher on selected music (from list of 38 given by An Coimisiún) and they can be danced in various speeds depending on the steps difficulty.

CHAMPIONSHIP

At the championships in OPEN level, dancers start competing from age of 8 and older. They must dance one Light and one Heavy dance in the same competition. At least three adjudicators sit at the panel of judges, who judge each dance separately (according to a complicated marking system) and then add their results together.

After that, there follows a so-called RECALL – based on the previous results, 30-50% of dancers proceed to the final round, where they individually dance a Set dance. It is again another hard shoe dance, either Jig or Hornpipe. After that, results are added together and the winner of the whole competition is announced.

Regional qualifying takes place once a year. Dancers from every age category have a chance to qualify for the World championship – the exact number of dancers that qualify depends on number of competitors in each category. National championships are held annually in Ireland, Great Britain (Great Britain and British Nationals), in North America, Australia, New Zealand, continental Europe and South Africa. World championship is held around Easter in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland or in Scotland. In 2009, there was the first ever world championship held outside of the islands - in Philadelphia, USA.

CEILÍ DANCES

At An Coimisiún competitions, it is only allowed to compete in Ceilí dances published in the book of 30 popular Ceilí dances (Ár Rinci Fóirne) and their execution must correspond with a description in the book. Usually there is a choice of 4-hand, 6-hand or 8-hand dance formation. At the World Championship, there are only 8-hand dance competitions. A list of selected dances is assigned to each age category. Dances are performed usually up to the first figure (included), which is danced by first (leading) couple only. Sometimes the first figure is danced, sometimes it is the second figure. Number of bars depends on the selected dance.

FIGURE DANCES

2-hand and 3-hand figure dances are usually danced to reel rhythm. Of course, there can be competitions, where the rhythm is unspecified, where for example 2-hand jig may occur.

Figure dance teams must consist of 8-16 dancers who must portray an Irish theme or item by movements. Basic steps are recommended. Dances must be in 2/4, 4/4, 6/8 time or a combination of those times and changes of music must last at least 16 bars. It cannot exceed 4 minutes and all dancers must dance the whole dance. A story of 200 words or less must be submitted and read by the stage steward prior to the start of the dance.

Arm movements are allowed in figure dances. What else it allowed? Anything within reason and the movements should be used to depict the story. Excessive movements would not be accepted.

DANCE DRAMA

Dance dramas must consist of 8-20 dancers. Each dance must portray a specific historical or traditional story or event. When stage properties are required, they must be portable and easily moved. Teams are allowed up to 5 minutes to place the properties. Only Irish music can be used – reels, jigs, slip jigs, single jigs, hornpipes, Irish marches or Irish slow airs or a combination of these are allowed. Spoken words or songs are not permitted as part of the dance drama.

COMPETITION MARKING

There are several things that judges mark. Make sure, that you are well prepared.

There are four areas an adjudicator marks for all solo competitions, which are timing, footwork, posture and execution.

In ceilí dances, additional things are judged - lines, spacing, correct figures (i.e. following the Ar Rinci Foirne book with no embellishments), how the team works together, overall presentation, sharpness, timing, footwork and hands (raising and dropping hands at the same time), etc.

In team figure dances, the marking is similar to ceilí dances, except the judges also look for originality, how the choreography conveys the story, lines, spacing, no embellishments (i.e. it is only allowed to pause in the dance for 4 bars or less, dancers must dance continuously for the whole dance with the exception of short pauses, it is allowed to dance only basic steps – threes, sevens, etc. – no „open“ steps). Competitors are marked on:

1) portrayal of story through dance
2) figure content
3) footwork and execution
4) teamwork and presentation.

For dance dramas, again it is about the telling of a story through dance, therefore the choreography, characters and costumes play a significant part in addition to the dancing. Acting is more important in this competition than in all the others. Dancers are marked on the following:

1) choice of theme, event or story 10
2) portrayal of theme including dance content and music 30
3) Dancing 30
4) Impact on adjudicator 20
5) Costume 10

INSTRUCTIONS AND ADVICE FOR COMPETITORS

1) You are entered for the competition with your teacher’s agreement and permission. Application form must be filled in and sent on time (teacher deals with it), same as the competition fees.

2) Find out when and what time you exactly compete, to have enough time to arrive to location, get ready, warm up and go through all dances with which you come to compete. Remember, although the competitions are usually delayed, one of the rules is that organizer can start even half an hour earlier before the schedule, if the circumstances allow.

3) If you are not wearing school or solo costume, wear smart clothes. Do not forget to take off all necklaces, bracelets, hanging earrings, rings and so on. Gentlemen, do not forget to wear dark socks and ladies, in case you wear black tights, make sure they are not lighter than 70 denier.

4) Shoes must be clean and polished. Make sure to wear correct shoes and have the laces properly done.

5) If you wear warmers in the time of warm up, do not forget to take them off before you go on stage.

6) Hair must be neat and brushed out of face not to be in way during dancing. In ladies’ case it is best to have your hair curled, or it can be solved by a wig.

7) If you travel without your teacher or entrusted person, report your name, dance school, age category etc., immediately after your arrival. You receive your competition number, do not forget to bring safety pin, with which you will clip on the number to your costume (must be on visible place and should not hamper in dancing).

8) Pop in to the loo in the last minute before you go dancing. For sure, there won’t be any time for that during competing.

9) Pay attention and listen to which age category and which dance is called. Go and wait in a queue and make sure there is no dancer from your school right next to you.

10) Walk smartly on stage, attention, do not look on the floor. Stand with arms by your side and open legs in first or fifth position (it’s up to you). Carefully count the beginning. Do not panic!!!

11) Concentrate and do not think of anything else while dancing. Smile!!! If you forget steps, do not panic and try to catch up again, even if you have to improvise for a while. Principally do not let anyone discern your situation. AND DO NOT STOP!!!!

12) When music stops or judge rings the bell, stop, point your right leg and bow. Walk nicely back to the starting position and wait in the fifth position. When you hear the bell again, bow with point again to judge, then to musician and gracefully leave the stage with arms by your side.

13) Listen to your number during declaration of results. If you hear it, turn up as fast as you can on stage. If you place between 1st and 3rd place in Beginners level, you automatically move in certain dance to Primary level, in other levels you have to win 1st place to move into higher level. If you win Perpetual Trophy, you also have to leave your contact with address etc. and at the next opportunity (usually in one year) return the trophy back.

14) Record your results, so you can remember your places later.

15) If you can’t help yourself, contact your teacher or in his/her absence approach any of the organisers or assistants. They are willing to help you.

16) Very important warning at the end – it is FORBIDDEN to you use video and/or digital cameras during dancing process at all competitions and championships. Mobile phones must be switched off. Cameras may be used during the results or anywhere out of competition hall.

WHY COMPETE?

SHOES AND COSTUMES

SHOES

The so-called Hard/Jig/Heavy shoes are used for tap dancing; for soft shoes dances, the so-called ghillies-for ladies and Reel shoes-for gents are worn.

HEAVY/JIG/HARD SHOES – special shoes for Irish tap dancing. Shoes are made from black leather with flexible sole. Heel and toe are made from wood, fibreglass or resin (no metal panels are used compare to other types of tap dancing shoes). There are certain types of shoes that have front sound panels cut even, which makes it easier for dancers to toe stand. First hard shoes had wooden wedge with nails in front bottom. In the 17th and 18th century, nails were tacked straight on a shoe sole. Dancers used sound of nails for producing various rhythms. Dances performed in hard shoes are: Heavy jig, Hornpipe, Treble reel.

SOFT/LIGHT SHOES SHOES - gillies or ghillies – ladies dance shoes are similar to ballet shoes, made from black leather, which provide required flexibility. Long shoelaces, correctly pulled through are tied around ankle, under the arch and final loop is tied up on instep. The following dances are danced in soft shoes: Reel, Light jig, Slip jig, and Single jig, same as Ceilí and figure dances.

REEL SHOES – gents’ dance shoes, similar to jazz dance shoes, made from black leather with plastic heel, which dancers use a lot in dance combinations. Gents combinations are different from ladies apart from other things in the so-called clicks done by heel beats against each other.

COMPETITION COSTUMES

Dance costumes went through many changes since Irish dancing beginnings. Several generations back it was fine just to wear „Sunday clothes“. In the 80s of the last century, velvet dresses with hand-decorated ornaments and patterns inspired by Book of Kells became popular. Nowadays, costumes are made of different materials including lace, silk and so on.

Judges mark mainly dancers’ performance, but consider their appearance as well.

GENTS used to dance in jacket and kilt (skirt similar to Scottish one, except it is markedly less decorated or completely without embellishment), but it is much easier these days. They wear long black trousers together with white or other coloured long sleeve shirt and tie, optionally with vest on top.

        

LADIES have it a bit more complicated. The most expensive part of equipment is the made-to-measure solo dress, due to its demanding making, embellishment and special cut. Dress has a stiffened canvas skirt, folded up to so-called panels. These costumes are quite heavy, so if you thinking about getting one, I recommend choosing one made of lighter material. But beside the big disadvantage of high cost of this dress, there is also a problem with its maintenance – as there is the stiffening canvas inside the bottom part of the dress, it must not be washed and dry cleaning is not recommended either. That is why many dancers wear additional t-shirt or vest under the dress. At every level, dancers must wear so-called poodle socks or black tights with costume. They wind their hair up or wear curly wigs with distinctive crown on their head. as it goes better with the expressive dress.

Costume can be easier for dancers at beginner’s level, so ladies often wear simple good-looking skirt. Its length should reach above knees and it should not restrict leg movement. It is worn together with tightly fitting shirt, which does not hamper the dancer in movement. Part of over-all look is reached by considerable and good-looking make-up (which is not allowed on young girls).

No other accessories – for example jewellery, wristwatch etc. – are allowed to wear.

TEAM COSTUMES – are worn during the team dance performance, as for example for ceilí or figure dancing or during a school performance. All costumes look the same. Although their cut is as complicated cut as with the solo dress, their embellishment is much easier.

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Copyright © Tereza Bernardová, 2003–2010