Plenty of people think Irish dancing is something you start at four or not at all. It isn't. Adults take up Irish dance for all sorts of reasons, and an adult class is one of the friendliest rooms in any dance school. If you have ever watched a céilí or a show and thought "I would love to do that", this is for you.
Who comes to an adult class
- Complete beginners who have never danced a step and want a new skill.
- Returners who danced as children and want to find their feet again. The steps come back quicker than you think.
- Parents of dancers who have watched from the side for years and fancy a go themselves.
- People looking for a different way to keep fit, with music, company and a laugh.
No experience is needed. You learn a new skill, or you simply come along to have a bit of fun and keep fit at the same time.
What a class is like
An adult class covers the same foundations as any beginners' class: posture, timing, and steps in soft shoes to reels and jigs. The difference is the pace and the company. Nobody minds a wrong foot, and everyone in the room remembers their own first class.
Why adults love it
Irish dancing is a proper workout. It is quick, light on the feet and done on the balls of the feet, so it builds stamina, strength in the legs and good balance. It is also a workout for the brain: remembering a sequence of steps and keeping it in time with the music takes concentration, which is half the fun.
And it is sociable. Céilí dances in particular are made for groups, and an adult class is a good way to meet people.
Where to dance with us
Our adult class at the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith runs on Mondays from 7pm to 8.30pm, for all levels. See the timetable, or ask us about classes at our own HJO Dance Studio in Brentford.
What to wear
Comfortable clothes you can move in, and socks or soft trainers. Bring water. That is all.
And if you catch the bug
Some adults dance purely for fun; others decide to compete. Many feiseanna have competitions for adults, including our own Buckinghamshire Championships, which has an Adults Over 21 age group. There is no pressure either way.
Your first class with Céim Óir is completely free, so there is nothing to lose.
Try your first class free
Tell us a little about yourself and we will find the right class.
Reserve a free class
