Fun Irish dance classes for children who already have some Irish dancing experience or brand new dancers that are age eight and older. Dancers will build on the basics of technique, musicality, and skills of Irish dance learned as beginners in a dynamic and engaging classroom. Dancers will continue to practice steps for the reel, light jig and slip jig. Depending on progress, dancers will also practice introductory steps in team and hard shoe dances. Perfect for dancers with more than one year of Irish dance experience keen to grow and develop as dancers.
- Advanced Beginner 1
- Wednesdays 5:30–6:30pm, Studio 2
- Advanced Beginner 2
- Wednesdays 5:30–6:30pm, Studio 1
- Advanced Beginner combined
- Mondays 5:30–6:30pm, Studio 2
- Saturdays 11am–12:15pm, Studio 2
- Sundays, 1:30–2:45pm, Studio 2 (combined with Beginner)
Dancers at this level should be attending at least two dance classes per week. Dancers can register for two, three or all four classes in a week. Discounts are available for taking multiple classes. Dancers taking only one class per week must pay the drop-in fee.
Dance class dress code:
- Poodle socks for girls (can be purchased through Rising Tide), dark socks for boys
- Long hair all the way back in ponytail, bun or braid
- Clothes appropriate and specific for exercise and recreation
- OK: Tshirt or tank top with minimal design (eg. Rising Tide school shirts)
- OK: Shorts, skorts or leggings that are made for exercise
- Note: leggings must be very fitted, particularly at the knee
- Not OK: Dresses, jeans, cargo shorts, long sleeve shirts, sweaters, non-athletic clothing
Dance class equipment list:
- Full water bottle
- Small notebook and pen/pencil
- Irish dance soft shoes (girls)/boys reel shoes (boys)
- Shoes and socks should already be on before class time begins.
Dancers in Advanced Beginner are encouraged to participate in local feiseanna (Irish dance competitions). These are generally held in February (school feis), April (ACIDC), August (Feis Nova Scotia) and October (East Coast Feis). Dancers are welcome to start exploring feiseanna in other cities at this level as well as the oireachtas premiere competition if ready. Dancers in Advanced Beginner are welcome to participate in grade exams provided they are ready and capable.
Dancers in Advanced Beginner are expected to perform in the end of year recital in June and may be called upon for additional performances throughout the dance year. Advanced Beginners are also encouraged to march in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in March.