Here’s something that’s definitely been handed down in the name of tradition. Irish dancing, anyone? These three sisters give a short preview of what it is about. Clearly, not something from the modern world. Just look at the way they’re standing, how their legs are crossed seemingly at the point of breaking. You have to be flexible for this one.
It is difficult to pinpoint and tell the exact history of Irish dancing.
Most historians seem to think that the first ones to do so were the Druids. A highly esteemed cultural class that lived in Ireland as early as 3bce. They were mystical people who would dance to honor the trees and sun during their religious rituals.
Then the Celts arrived in 400AD, all the way from Central Europe, they brought along their own unique dance and music. The Anglo-Normans landed on Irish shores in the 12th century with their own customs accompanied with styles of song and dance.
The 16th century had notable Irish dances that were performed by girls in beautiful dresses. The Rince Fada, the Irish Hey, and the Trenchmore were some of the dances and with each dance came with a distinct costume.
This looks to be the Irish Stepdance!
It is the most common and recognized dance in the world and has been a staple during turbulent social and political times. What’s cool about it is that though the dance is the same, the costumes have evolved from the dresses and capes, to black leggings and the like giving the dance a modern twist.
Notice how these three sisters keep their arms behind their backs, only letting their feet do the work? Well believe it or not, it was probably because they had limited space to move around in. Dancing in crowded places with small areas couldn’t have been easy for the ancient folk.
Still, it’s stunning to see these three go about it.
Up and down with efficiency in their step, looking very confident minus the stage costumes. Imagine what it would look like with the right dresses and backdrop? Clearly, they’re seasoned dancers. No way can amateurs move like that.
Imagine then all those years back when the first dancers went about it during one of their rituals. Flames, hooded costumes with capes, dancing for their gods and… sacrifices? Hope not. Thank goodness for modern ways of thinking where dancing is done for entertainment.
How fitting is it that these sisters are dancing on wood surrounded by trees?
It does add to the mystique of the dance. Those tapping sounds from their shoes can be hypnotic if you replay the video again and again. Maybe that’s what the ancient dancers were after?
The Irish dance has endured precisely because of people like these sisters who carry the tradition through their performances, dancing for the camera and audiences. It is truly inspiring to see young people influencing others to do the same. And dances like these are so refreshing to watch amidst all the modern forms.
Click on the video below and see how these sisters make the Irish proud!
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Source: YouTube, lovetoknow
