Old Style Irish Dance

Sean-nós is the oldest Irish dance style and was the basis for modern Irish step dance as seen in shows like ‘Riverdance’ and ‘Lord of the Dance’. Also American tap and Appalachian clogging have been influenced by sean-nós.

It literally means ‘old style’ and is characterized by low to the ground footwork, free arm movements and improvisations in which the dancer expresses the energy of the music through rhythmic battering steps. Every region in Ireland has its own sean-nós style resulting from the music style in that area, but the individuality of the dancer remains the most important aspect.

Dancing is often done in confined spaces, wherever there is room in the pub and this could mean the table top. As a result there is no space for high kicks or spectacular leaps which makes sean-nós a very relaxed dance style. It is ideal for dancers of all ages who can’t sit still when hearing Irish music but who feel intimidated by the high energy ‘Riverdance’-style.