Gonefeising: IrishCentral: Adult Irish dance team at Villanova University

Villanova adult Irish dance team, Villanova, Pennsylvania

This article first appeared on IrishCentral.com.

The Irish dance club at Villanova University in Pennsylvania provides opportunities for all college students of all levels. There are classes for the greenest beginner, and a course of study for those who desire to continue competing while in their collegiate years.

Villanova adult Irish dancers sporting Irish dance jackets

In 2006 a group of dedicated dancers wanted to share their love of Irish dance, music and culture with the Villanova community. The Villanova Irish dance club was formed. All dances are choreographed by students and include traditional sets and ceilis and contemporary figures and solos. Co-captain Kristen Boersig has been told that there's a different sort of energy that sets them apart from other dancers on campus. "We like to mix traditional and modern moves to upbeat and recognizable songs," Boersig says. "That way the audience can make a connection and relate to the performances, even if they don’t understand the background of Irish dance.

The Irish dance team performs all year on the Villanova campus and in local areas around Villanova. With St. Patrick’s Day comes an annual showcase as a way to celebrate the dances they have learned.

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Classes are available for beginner, intermediate and advanced classes. Beginner adult Irish dancers get the opportunity to show their new dancing talents at many of the performances, including the St. Patrick’s Day Showcase. Intermediate adult Irish dancers can learn more advanced technique in soft and hard shoes. Advanced adult Irish dancers meet often for team and solo work, competing in regional, national and international competitions.

Student Bridget Nyland was able to travel with the Villanova Irish dance club to Paris, France and participate in the European Celtic Irish Dance Festival. Bridget says, “It was noncompetitive and a great chance to meet other Irish dance groups from all over the world.”