Irish Set Dancing Fundamentals
Monthly Workshops for Adults
Second Mondays, 7:00–9:00 pm
September 14, October 12, and November 9
Maldon’s Home Studio
2400 NE Alberta Street
Portland, Oregon
Learn the foundational skills you need to participate confidently in Irish set dancing.
Irish set dancing is a lively community dance tradition similar to American square dancing. Four couples usually dance together in a square formation, moving through figures to the rhythms of traditional Irish music.
These monthly workshops will help you understand how set dances are built. Movements, figures, footwork, and patterns will be introduced step by step, with plenty of repetition and time to practice.
You’ll develop coordination, musicality, and confidence in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
No partner or previous dance experience is required.
Designed for Real Dancing
The goal of these workshops is to help you feel more comfortable joining dances at céilís, festivals, classes, and community events.
You’ll learn how to listen to a caller, recognize familiar figures, recover when you lose your place, and work together with the other dancers in your set.
You do not need to memorize every dance. You are learning skills you can carry from one set dance to another.
What You Will Learn
- The basic formation of an Irish set
- Common movements and figures
- How to follow called instructions
- Foundational footwork and rhythms
- How figures fit with traditional Irish music
- How to find your place and recover if you get lost
- How to support and communicate with the other dancers in your set
- Skills you can use at céilí and community dances
Workshop Dates
Monday, September 14
An introduction to set formation, foundational footwork, and frequently used movements.
Monday, October 12
Continue building your skills with additional figures, patterns, and transitions.
Monday, November 9
Put the pieces together as we practice complete figures and develop greater confidence dancing as a set.
Each workshop stands on its own. You may attend one, two, or all three.
Who These Workshops Are For
These workshops are a good fit if:
- You are completely new to Irish set dancing
- You have attended a céilí but felt unsure where to go
- You would like more time to practice common figures
- You want to become more confident following a caller
- You are an experienced dancer who would like to strengthen your foundations
What to Bring
Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely. Please bring:
- Clean, non-scuffing shoes
- A water bottle
- A notebook, if you enjoy taking notes
Tuition
$20 per workshop
Current members: Included with membership
Space in the home studio is limited, so advance registration is required. Current members should also reserve a place.
[Register for Set Dancing Fundamentals]
Come learn the patterns, enjoy the music, and discover the pleasure of dancing together.