Irish Step Dancers

American tap dance was influenced by Irish Step Dancing. Credit: ronnie44052/Flickr

Micheal Flatley and Riverdance may have made it cool, but Irish Step Dancing has been around for centuries. And with St. Patrick's Day right around the corner, it's time to get jiggy.

Although there are many different types of Irish dancing, they can generally be divided into two groups: Social dances and performance dances. The Irish Step Dancing most of us are familiar with falls into the performance category. It's characterized by quick and precise footwork performed while keeping the upper body rigid and arms held straight. And then there are the costumes. Beautifully embellished and colorful, the costumes are as much a part of the spectacle as the dance itself.

If you are interested in learning the art of Irish Step Dancing, chances are good that there's a school near you. FeisWorx has a comprehensive listing of accredited Irish Dance schools in North America. Or check out Irish Dance Teachers Association of North America for links to associated partners.

But those of us with two left feet would probably do better to skip the lessons and sit back and enjoying an Irish Step Dancing performance. Check out the Riverdance performance schedule or one of these upcoming St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

New York City: Since 1766, New Yorkers have paraded down the streets to honor the patron saint of Ireland. The tradition continues on Wednesday, March 17th, 2010 with bagpipers, bands and, of course, Irish Step Dancers.

Chicago: The windy city does St. Patrick's Day right. Not only do they dye the river green and stage a giant parade, they also feature eight days of Irish Step Dancing performances. Beginning March 12, more than 200 dancers ages 4 to 18 will take the stage at the Irish American Heritage Center.

Dallas: From March 5-7, dancers from various local schools of Irish dance will be featured at the North Texas Irish Festival in Fair Park, Texas.

Boston: The Boston area will be hopping with St. Patrick's Day celebrations this year. In addition to numerous parades featuring the traditional Irish dance, the O'Shea-Chaplin Irish Step Dancers will be performing at Fuddruckers, of all places, on Wednesday, March 17.

Philadelphia: The city of brotherly love's annual St. Patrick's Day celebration will be held on Sunday, March 14 and will include performances by local Irish Step Dancers. If you can't get to Philly, watch it live here.