December Masterclass: Advanced & Intermediate Irish Dance

Monthly Masterclass
Advanced & Intermediate Irish Dance Intensive

📅 Date: Saturday December 7th
🕒 Time: 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
📍 Location: The Liffey Trust Studios, Dublin 1

This masterclass is for you if you’ve always loved Irish dance but haven’t had the chance to do it lately, or if you’re looking to develop your own unique performance style. Led by Ruth, the class focuses on full-body movements and dives into the “why” behind each step. Not only will you learn technique, but you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of the artistry behind the dance. Whether you danced as a child or dream of dancing professionally, this monthly masterclass will give you all the tools you need to take your skills to the next level. And if you're looking to exercise and break a sweat without even realizing it, this is the perfect class for you—it’s a fun and energetic way to stay fit!

Join Ruth McKenna, former Riverdance cast member, for an unforgettable Irish dance workshop that blends tradition, technique, and personal style. This half-day intensive is designed for advanced and intermediate dancers who want to deepen their connection to Irish dance while having fun and meeting others who share the same passion.

Location Details:

• Venue: The Liffey Trust Studios, Dublin 1

• Parking: There is parking available outside the studio.

• Transport: The studio is conveniently located near the Red LUAS line, making it easy to get to from various parts of Dublin.

Attire:

• Please wear comfortable black clothing suitable for dance, such as leggings, a vest, black tights, and a skirt or shorts.

• The goal is to feel and look the part, so dress in a way that lets you move freely and confidently.

What to Bring:

• Water to stay hydrated.

• Towel in case you need to freshen up during the session.

• Snack (optional) if you feel you’ll need an energy boost during the break.

• There are shops and coffee shops nearby if you wish to grab something before or after class.

• 1:30 PM - Arrival & Introduction:
  Meet the group and hear from Ruth about the day's program.

• 1:45 PM - Quick Warm-Up (15 mins):
  A quick, efficient warm-up to get your body ready for the session and the dances ahead.

• 2:00 PM - Dance #1:
  Ruth will guide you through a beautifully choreographed heavy and light dance, focusing on technique, tradition, and bringing your personal style to the performance.

• 3:15 PM - Break (20 mins):
  A short, 20-minute break to rest, grab a coffee, and mingle with your fellow dancers.

• 3:35 PM - Dance #2:
  The second choreographed dance will build on what you’ve learned and offer a chance to refine your skills while exploring more traditional movements and creative expression.

• 4:55 PM - Closing & Community Time:
  Wrap up the session with time to reflect, ask questions, and connect with the community.

Masterclass Schedule:

Time: 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM (3 hours of teaching + 20-minute break)

1:30 PM - 1:35 PM | Welcome & Brief Mingling (5 min)

• Quick introductions and overview of the class structure.

1:35 PM - 1:45 PM | Warm-Up (10 min)

• Dynamic stretching and mobility exercises to ensure we are mobile/ warm.

1:45 PM - 3:05 PM | Part 1: Light Shoe Dance (1 hour 20 min)

• 1:45 PM - 2:15 PM | Choreography Breakdown (30 min)

  • Learn Ruth’s light shoe choreography step-by-step.

• 2:15 PM - 3:05 PM | Extended Practice & Run-Throughs (50 min)

  • Detailed run-throughs of each section, building up to the full piece.

3:05 PM - 3:25 PM | Break (20 min)

• Time to rest, hydrate, and casually connect with others.

3:25 PM - 4:45 PM | Part 2: Heavy Shoe Dance (1 hour 20 min)

• 3:25 PM - 3:55 PM | Choreography Breakdown (30 min)

  • Focused instruction on heavy shoe choreography, emphasizing strong, grounded movements.

• 3:55 PM - 4:45 PM | Extended Practice & Run-Throughs (50 min)

  • Practice each section, then combine for full run-throughs, refining details.

4:45 PM - 5:10 PM | Cool Down & Stretch (25 min)

• Comprehensive cool-down with stretching to relax and release any tension from dancing.

5:10 PM - 5:30 PM | Reflection, Community, & Q&A (20 min)

• Open discussion for reflections, feedback, and a Q&A session with Ruth.

• Final words, sharing experiences, and closing the session with community bonding.