Sean-Nós Dancer in residence appointed at Áras Inis Gluaire, Belmullet, Co. Mayo |
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Patrick and Joe will work with seven local national schools in a six week programme commencing on Tuesday 31st January where steps will combine with live music in what will be an entertaining and very ‘feet-on’ learning experience. Every Wednesday evening, the public at large will be welcomed to Áras Inis Gluaire to take part in a workshop with the two masters in living tradition. Places are limited, please book early to avoid disappointment. Sean-Nós dancing has been described as the jazz of traditional Irish dancing. It is performed alone in short bursts of exuberance as dancers respond to the music in their own unique way. Dancers start with a few basic steps and improvise and refine them over a lifetime. No two performances are ever the same. There are no set pieces, no costumes, no rules. It is essentially a pulse. Movements recall a time when dancing was done by itinerant dance masters at the crossroads of villages or the hearth of country homes. Feet batter in loose shuffles, hops, rocks and drums – complicated and percussive – but graceful, effortless and understated. Bodies stay relaxed and straight, and arms swing slightly at the sides. The performer dances in a three by for foot space, not quite the size of a sliver tray, but close enough, and sometimes in a space as tight as an old silver sixpence. For more information regarding the workshops, please contact 097 81079. Classes are €10 per night, discounts apply should you wish to pay for classes in advance.
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Patrick Devane, Champion of Oireachtas 2011 has been appointed Sean-Nós Dancer in residence at Áras Inis Gluaire in Belmullet. Patrick will team up with Geesala native Joe Carey for the residency, providing local primary schools and the public at large the opportunity to learn the creative and very aerobic skill!
