Category: Irish Sean-nós Dance

This is the Connemara step. This version is the step version vs the hop version. Both versions are at the heart of Connemara sean-nós dancing and Connemara set dancing. It is a key component of the Connemara Set, island sets like Inis Oirr and Inis Meáin, and the Claddagh Set, which Seamus O Meoloid revived in Ráth Chairn, Meath.

Ráth Chairn, a village with a rich history, was founded in 1935 by 27 families from Connemara, with 11 more joining in 1937. These families brought with them vibrant traditions, including the Claudagh set. Known for its sean-nós dance heritage, Ráth Chairn was designated a Gaeltacht in 1967.

I had the privilege of attending a set dance workshop led by Seamus at the University of Limerick. Seamus was generous and an excellent teacher. If you get the chance to watch him dance, take a lesson, or chat with him, don’t miss it. His dancing style is delightful; he often starts with a smooth lead-in before transitioning to percussive dancing, almost as if testing the tune. He has a playful style reminiscent of the dancers from the late 1990s—a joyful, fun, and sometimes comic approach that I don’t see as often today. It’s the kind of dancing that makes you smile.

Below is a video that breaks down the step without music. We also offer practice videos with music to get you started on the Connemara step. Enjoy dancing!