Dancing at the Crossroads

Overview

Stamp, Clap and Dance your way into the Centuries-old tradition of Irish Dance in ancient Downpatrick

Irish Dancing | Costumes & Shoes | Learn the Steps | Traditional to Modern | The Hooley | Crossroads Dancing

From humble beginnings in the rural townland of Drumnaconagher in County Down, Josephine Brennan King began her Irish dancing career in the local parochial hall. Starting out as a very young, reluctant dancer, Josephine progressed to the elite world stage as dance captain with Michael Flatley’s renowned  “Lord of the Dance” show. After years of touring abroad Josephine returned to her beloved homeplace from where she now shares her creative talents.

The 1700s and 1800s saw the introduction of Dance Masters who travelled throughout Ireland to teach the centuries-old Irish dancing steps to the masses. Throughout rural communities, locals loved to socialise by dancing at the crossroads after a long day of gathering potatoes or saving hay. Breathing life into this tradition of crossroads dancing and the work of the charismatic Dance Masters, principal dancer Josephine weaves her magic through a fully interactive, one-of-a-kind Irish dancing experience. Learn the steps from traditional Sean Nós (old style Irish dance) to the iconic steps of “Riverdance” and “Lord of the Dance” through which the early Dance Master’s teaching lives on.

This unforgettable, high-octane experience culminates in a grand finale with a hooley (party) at the crossroads at the historic Down Cathedral overlooking the beautiful Mourne Mountains.

• Josephine | world-class elite Irish dancer | true expert in choreography and the tradition of Irish dance.
• The Experience | interactive and engaging Irish dancing experience | delivered with energy and flair.
• Learn the Steps | from traditional Sean Nós to the iconic steps of “Riverdance” & “Lord of the Dance.”
• Heritage | learn the origins and evolution of Irish dancing | the Irish dancing shoes and costumes.
• Grand Finale | dance at the crossroads | in the tradition and dance steps of previous generations.
• Location | Denvir’s Hotel Downpatrick: the oldest Coaching Inn in Ireland | historic venue & ancient town.
• Downpatrick | burial place of Saint Patrick | one of Ireland’s oldest towns | county town of Down.