Erica Burgin
I spent three weeks in Ireland this summer studying the culture, history, and especially the dance of that country. I wanted to show that Irish dance has played a pivotal role in preserving Ireland’s cultural identity since before the spread of Christianity. I focused my time on studying the historical climate of Ireland from its roots to current times, learning how dance evolved from its early communal roots to its current status, and researching the role of costumes and their development. I attended Blas Iomlan, an intensive two-week program designed to give dancers a taste of Irish dance from its early roots to current styles. The instruction given at this workshop, in addition to interviews and library research, allowed me to see the parallels in Irish history and dance. Irish dance offers a wealth of information about Ireland, and as Catherine Foley said in our interview, “If you find any treasure, it needs to be shared.”
Ireland has been inhabited since about 6000 BC, a very distant time of which little is known. The earliest known settlers to arrive were Celts—a group of Indo-European migrants, arguably from the Aryan race. They were blue-eyed and fair-haired, and scholars believe they originated in central Europe, possibly from Switzerland. Three groups of Celts came to Ireland after 500 BC, the third of these groups being the Gaels. This particular group split and settled in Ireland and Scotland, explaining many of the similarities in their language, customs, and dance. Druid religion was widely practiced, up until Patrick began his Christian mission in Ireland in 432 AD. With such a rich history and religion, the Irish incorporated aspects of their past into their new lifestyle, evidenced by Celtic knot-work that graced tombs, crosses, and even the Book of Kells. This ornately illuminated manuscript of the Gospels was produced by monks around 800 AD and played an important role in Irish dancing costumes as they developed over the years.
Not much is known of Irish dance before 1600’s. Norman (English) invasions, beginning in 1169, resulted in growing distinctions between the two cultures. The invading Normans destroyed most written records and placed the Irish under the rule of the English Monarchy. A poem written in 1670 describes several country dances done at that time. These were most likely influenced by the introduction of carol dances (round dances) done by the Normans. Traces of Druid rituals remained present in dances involving fires; dances done with props—such as sticks and swords—also reflect pre-Norman influences.
Ireland remained severely oppressed under English rule, which greatly limited the spread and development of Irish dance. Stringent laws, known as the Penal Laws (1695-1745), placed restrictions on land ownership, government participation, and the peoples’ right to arms. Even the Catholic Church was scrutinized by the Protestant English. Under these circumstances England turned the Irish into peasants, or second-class citizens, also suppressing the expression of Irish culture in any form: music, dance, and even language.
Changes in dance began shortly after the Penal Laws were reduced in 1745. Dance masters came, many traveling from turmoil-ridden France—a country with a strong dance tradition—and taught dances to the country-folk. They incorporated traditional Irish steps such as side-sevens, skips, and leaps. Soon Irish dance and music became the main form of entertainment, with groups frequently meeting at crossroads. As dance began to develop, the dance masters introduced solo step-dancing, which soon became the height of Irish dance.
Dance masters made a great impact on the development of Irish dance because they helped it become a wide-spread, popular activity. As itinerant teachers, they would travel from town to town, setting up a temporary school for about six weeks. During that time they taught groups of students different set and figure dances, which carried strong ties to the French quadrille. For more advanced individuals they taught solo step dances. Frequently the town held a dance to raise money to pay the dance master. Students danced and showed off their solo steps, much like the dancing masters showed their steps at county fairs. A friendly competitive spirit developed with the style, surviving into the 1930’s when competitive Irish dance became a regulated and judged event.
Ireland became a self-governed entity in 1782, but it wasn’t until 1893 that Irish citizens made a concerted effort to recapture a unique cultural identity. A group called the Gaelic League was formed that year, with its sole intent being the preservation and creation of a distinct cultural identity for Ireland. Dance had become a well-established means of expression over the past 100 years, and it received much attention from founders of the League. Competitions became organized events that introduced the concept of a national championship dancer, while social events known as ceili also grew in popularity. Interest in Irish dance surged again in the 1920-30’sm prompting the formation of the Irish Dancing Commission. They set out rules for competition, covering topics from dress length, to music tempo, to what regional style of Irish dance was acceptable. The Irish Dancing Commission still acts today, globally legislating all aspects of competitive Irish dance under its jurisdiction.
Irish dance is a continually evolving dance form. From its earliest roots it served as a means of recreation and social interaction. During the English oppression dance became less public, but it helped the people remember their roots. Foot-tapping also helped preserve the lively rhythmic patterns of Irish music, an integral part of Irish dance. Once the Irish were free to develop their own identity, dance provided an outlet to showcase skill, strength, and the fiery competitive spirit of the people. As competitive dancing grew and spread to other countries, some of the cultural meaning behind the dance was lost. Costumes that integrated symbols from the Book of Kells became outdated, though such costumes could be found up until the 1990’s. Competitive dance is now focused on virtuosity, not culture. Stage performances, such as Riverdance, have also stepped away from the cultural side of Irish dance, favoring a style that can be appreciated world-wide. By sharing Irish dance with the world, though, Irish culture and identity is still being preserved. As Ireland evolves and grows, the dance grows with it. Irish dance is truly a treasure of the people, for the people.