The Irish Dance genre is an essential part of the heritage and culture of Ireland. From its early roots in Celtic history, to the global growth inspired by shows such as Riverdance, to the modern- day competitive championships and Feisanna, it continues to be a vibrant and evolving dance form. The Essential Guide to Irish Dancing delves into the history and culture behind the world of Irish Dance, offering technical instruction from beginner-level to advanced, including how to prepare exciting set dances and choreograph innovative sequences. Topics covered include: Irish dance music; the fundamentals of solo dancing; traditional dance movements and set dances; Céilí dancing; competitions and careers; choreography, and finally, physical fitness and mental health. A valuable guide to the history and culture behind the world of Irish Dance, which continues to be a vibrant and evolving dance form. Will be of great interest to dancers; dance teachers, choreographers and Irish Dance enthusiasts. Offers technical instruction from beginner-level to advanced; how to prepare exciting set dances and choreograph innovative sequences. Packed with information on Irish dance music; solo dancing; traditional dance movements; Céilí dancing; choreography and so much more. Superbly illustrated with 208 colour photos; 5 b&w photos and 18 figures. Marie Duffy Pask has seventy years' experience in Irish Dancing and was the Dance Director for Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance for twenty years. Foreword by Michael Flatley. Features and reviews in Dancing Times and One Dance magazines. Reviews in The Wonderful World of Dance; Exeunt and Total Theatre magazines.