Welcome to the definitive resource for navigating the vibrant world of Irish Dance in the UK. Whether you are a dancer, a parent, or simply an enthusiast, this guide, inspired by VoyForums, will connect you to essential resources, from accessories and costumes to dance schools and global organizations. Dive into the heart of the UK Irish dance community and discover everything you need to thrive.
Essential Accessories for Irish Dancers in the UK
Finding the right accessories is crucial for any Irish dancer. From specialized shoes to dazzling crystals, the UK market offers a wealth of options to enhance your performance and style. Explore these top providers:
- I Dance Irish: http://www.idanceirish.com/ – Your starting point for a wide range of Irish dance accessories.
- Celtic Creations: http://www.irishdanceshop.com/ – Discover unique Celtic-inspired accessories to complement your dance attire.
- Feiswear: http://www.feiswear.com/ – A go-to source for competitive Irish dance wear and accessories.
- Dance City: http://www.dancecity.ie/ – Though based in Ireland, Dance City is a key resource for UK dancers seeking quality accessories.
- Jan’s Custom Clips: http://www.janscustomclips.com/ – Personalize your look with custom-made clips and hair accessories.
- Irish Dancing Awards: http://www.irishdancingawards.co.uk/ – Celebrate achievements with dance-specific awards and gifts.
- Inishfree Irish Dance Shoes: http://www.irish-danceshoes.com/ – Step into performance with expertly crafted Irish dance shoes.
- Scatter Crystals: http://www.scattercrystals.co.uk/ – Add sparkle to your costume with a wide array of crystals.
- Beads & Crystals: http://www.beadsandcrystals.co.uk/ – Expand your creative options with diverse beads and crystals for costume embellishment.
- Crystal Parade: http://www.crystalparade.co.uk – Elevate your costume with high-quality crystals and embellishments.
- Ryan & O’Donnell: http://www.ryanandodonnell.com/ – Explore another trusted source for Irish dance shoes and accessories.
- The Irish Dancer: http://theirishdancer.co.uk/ – Your online hub for various Irish dance needs in the UK.
- Antonio Pacelli: http://www.antoniopacelli.com – Renowned for premium Irish dance shoes and accessories.
- Hullachan Pro: http://www.hullachan.com – Discover high-performance Irish dance shoes designed for professionals.
- Satin Ribbon Sashes: http://www.satinribbonsashes.co.uk/ – Accessorize and personalize with satin ribbon sashes.
- Rhinestone HQ: https://rhinestonehq.com/ – Stock up on rhinestones for dazzling costume designs.
UK Dress Makers & Dresses For Sale
The costume is a defining element of Irish dance. UK-based dressmakers and dress sale platforms offer stunning options for every dancer:
- Gavin Doherty: http://www.gavindoherty.co.uk – Explore bespoke, high-end Irish dance dresses from a leading designer.
- Eileen Plater: http://www.eileenplater.com – Discover custom-made dresses known for elegance and craftsmanship.
- Siopa Rince: http://www.sioparince.com/ – Find a range of Irish dance dresses and design services.
- Avoca Celtic: http://www.avocacelticdesigns.com/ – Explore Celtic design influences in their Irish dance dresses.
- Elevation Design: http://www.elevation-design.co.uk/ – Find innovative and contemporary Irish dance dress designs.
- FeisAnne: http://www.feisanne.blogspot.com/%0D%0A%20 – Explore dress design inspiration and resources.
- Shauna Shiels: http://www.doiredressdesigns.com/%0D%0A%20 – Discover unique dress designs with a distinctive style.
- Keep It ID: http://keepitirishdancing.webs.com/index.htm – Find resources related to Irish dance dresses and costumes.
- Dance Again: http://www.dance-again.com/ – Explore options for buying and selling pre-owned Irish dance dresses.
- Get That Dress: http://getthatdress.com/ – Another platform for finding pre-loved Irish dance dresses.
- Feis Frocks: http://www.facebook.com/FeisFrocks – Connect with dressmakers and sellers through this Facebook page.
- FeisDresses.com: http://www.feisdresses.com/ – A dedicated online marketplace for Irish dance dresses.
Top Irish Dance Schools in the UK
For aspiring and seasoned dancers, choosing the right dance school is paramount. The UK boasts numerous reputable Irish dance schools:
- Céim óir: http://www.ceimoir.com/ – Discover a dance school with a focus on traditional Irish dance.
- Matthews: http://www.matthews-irish-dancing.co.uk/ – A well-established Irish dance school in the UK.
- McGahan Lees: http://www.mcgahanlees.com/ – Explore a renowned dance school with a strong competitive record.
- Kelly Hendry: http://www.kellyhendryschool.com/ – Find a dance school focused on nurturing talent and passion for Irish dance.
- McCarthy O’Rourke: http://www.mccarthyirishdance.co.uk/# – A leading dance school offering comprehensive Irish dance training.
- Voyage of I D: http://www.voyageofirishdance.com/ – Explore a dance school with a unique approach to Irish dance education.
- Maguire-O’Shea: http://maguireoshea.net/ – A respected dance school with a focus on both performance and competition.
- McCartin: http://mccartinsd.wordpress.com/ – Discover a dance school with a focus on community and Irish culture.
- Mulvihill: http://www.mulvihillirishdance.com/ – A dance school committed to providing quality Irish dance instruction.
- Boyle O’Dowda: http://www.boyleodowda.com/ – Explore a dance school known for its dedication to traditional Irish dance.
- O’Malley: http://www.omalleyirishdance.co.uk/ – Find a dance school that fosters a love for Irish dance in students of all ages.
- Carroll: http://www.facebook.com/CarrollSID – Connect with this dance school through their Facebook page.
- Sharon Taylor: https://www.sharontayloririshdanceacademy.co.uk/ – Explore a dance academy focused on developing skilled and passionate Irish dancers.
- Cabe: http://www.cabeacademy.ie/ – Though based in Ireland, Cabe Academy is relevant for UK dancers seeking top-tier instruction.
- Lennon-McLoughlin: http://lennonmcloughlin.wix.com/irishdance – Discover a dance school with a modern approach to Irish dance.
- McSloy: http://www.mcsloyschoolofirishdance.co.uk/ – A well-regarded Irish dance school in the UK.
- Gra na Rince: http://www.granarince.co.uk/ – Explore a dance school that emphasizes the grace and beauty of Irish dance.
Global Irish Dance Organizations
Stay connected with the broader Irish dance world through these international organizations:
- An Comhdháil: http://www.irishdancingorg.com/ – A major international Irish dance organization.
- I D T A N A: http://www.idtana.org/ – The Irish Dance Teachers Association of North America, relevant for global standards.
- CAID: http://www.caid-irishdance.webs.com/ – The Congress of An Rince, another significant Irish dance body.
- CRN: http://www.crn.ie/ – Comhairle Rince Náisiúnta, an Irish national dance council.
- TIDA NZ: http://www.irishdancenz.co.nz/page.php?9 – The Traditional Irish Dance Association of New Zealand, showcasing global reach.
- WIDA: http://www.worldirishdance.com/ – World Irish Dance Association, promoting Irish dance worldwide.
- An Coimisiun: http://www.clrg.ie/ – An Coimisiún Le Rincí Gaelacha, the largest global Irish dance organization.
Feis Promotions & Results
Keep up-to-date with Irish dance competitions (feiseanna) and results:
- InstepFM: http://www.instepfm.com/ – Stay informed about feiseanna and Irish dance events.
- Irish dancer: http://www.irish-dancer.co.uk/ – Find feis-related news and information for the UK.
- Feis Results: http://www.feisresults.com/ – Track results from Irish dance competitions globally.
- Irish Dance Stuff: http://www.irishdancestuff.blogspot.com/ – A blog with insights and updates related to Irish dance and feiseanna.
Regional Councils
Connect with Irish dance regional councils in the UK:
- NorthWest: http://www.nwrc.co.uk/ – The North West Regional Council of Irish Dance.
- Midlands: http://www.id-mrc.com/ – The Midlands Regional Council of Irish Dancing.
- Munster: http://www.munsterdancing.com/ – Though in Ireland, Munster Council is relevant for dancers in bordering UK regions.
- Southern England: http://www.serc.myzen.co.uk/ – The Southern England Regional Council of Irish Dancing.
Music Downloads for Irish Dance
Access essential music for practice and performance:
- Dean Crouch: http://www.deancrouch.co.uk/ – Download traditional Irish dance music tracks.
- Liam Bradley & Damien McKee: http://www.setdances.com/ – Find music specifically for set dances.
- Mark Arrington: http://www.markarringtonmusic.com/ – Explore a range of Irish dance music from a composer.
- Irish Dance Tunes: http://www.irishdancetunes.com/ – A resource for various Irish dance tunes.
- Diddledum.com: http://www.diddledum.com/ – Download and access Irish dance music resources.
- Gerry & Seamus: http://www.gerryandseamus.com/ – Discover music from renowned Irish musicians for dance.
- The Feis Musician- William Patterson: http://www.thefeismusician.com/home.cfm – Access music specifically tailored for feiseanna.
Feis Photos
Capture and cherish your Irish dance moments with these photography services:
- FeisPix: http://www.Feispix.com – Professional photography services at Irish dance competitions.
- Photo Magic: http://www.photomagic.ie – Though based in Ireland, Photo Magic covers events relevant to UK dancers.
- Trevor Robinson: http://www.trevorrobinsonphotography.co.uk/ – UK-based photographer specializing in Irish dance events.
- MediaImages: http://www.swoose.net/ – Find event photography services, potentially including Irish dance events.
- Time In Focus: http://www.timeinfocus.co.uk/ – UK-based event photographers.
- FeisPhotos: http://feisphotos.ru/ – Though based in Russia, FeisPhotos covers international events.
Conclusion
VoyForums’ initiative to create a dedicated Irish Dance board for the UK highlights the strong and connected community within the UK Irish Dance scene. This guide serves as your comprehensive starting point to explore accessories, dresses, schools, and resources essential for every dancer and parent involved in Voy Irish Dance Uk and beyond. Explore these links, connect with the community, and continue to celebrate the rich tradition of Irish dance in the United Kingdom.