A beginner dancer can be any age, including adults, but generally no younger than 3 years old. 7 of 8 years old is also a popular age group to begin Irish dancing.

The soft shoe dance called the Beginners Reel.

It does depend on each individual, but an average time is around 6 months to 1 year.

For most dancers it is the hard shoe set dance. It is an advanced dance and can last for up to 3 minutes, so also quite physically demanding.

You must be the minimum age of 21 years, and complete the TCRG exam, which includes both theory and practical components. The exam is usually a 3-day test. A pass in all components makes you a certified teacher. All Irish dancing teachers are required to be certified in order to register their students for competitions.

The "High Cauled Cap". This dance consists of 568 bars of music.

In traditional Irish Dancing, the upper body remains straight and still with the arms by your side. Show dancing is an accelerated version of traditional dancing. It incorporates upper body and arm movements which express your feeling of the music and rhythm. You will see examples of Show Dancing in Michael Flatley’s shows.

In traditional Irish Dancing, the upper body remains straight and still with the arms by your side. Show dancing is an accelerated version of traditional dancing. It incorporates upper body and arm movements which express your feeling of the music and rhythm. You will see examples of show dancing in Michael Flatley's shows.

'An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha' (CLRG) is the governing body and it covers all aspects of Irish Dance including accredited teachers and adjudicators, examinations, workshops and details of Irish Dancing worldwide.

This depends on your aim and level. It will vary according to each individual's ability, age and ambition, and specific advice will be provided as you progress. You can start as a child or as an adult - don't be put off if you're older! Dancing is to be enjoyed by every age as different aspects of Irish Dance are suitable for all ages and abilities. Classes are enjoyable, social occasions apart from the dance element.

Initially you would start with the Irish dance pump. You would then progress to the heavier shoe. If you intend to enter competitions you would then need to consider costumes. Your teacher will advise as you progress.

Initially you would start with the Irish Dance pump. You would then progress to the heavier hard shoe. If you intend to enter competitions you would then need to consider costumes. Your teacher will advise you as you progress.