An examination of the creative processes in competitive Irish step dance

Abstract

This dissertation examines creative processes within competitive Irish step dance. The primary objective of the study is to investigate whether it is in fact possible for one to be creative within this dance genre. Based on the evidence produced, it is argued that, despite the highly regulated nature of competition culture, competitive Irish step dance is nonetheless conducive to creativity. Following consideration of the historical and institutional context for the development and regulation of competitive Irish dance, the research findings presented in the thesis place particular focus on the World Championships in Irish dance held in Belfast in 2006. Events such as the World Championships are where the best dancers compete against their peers and where new movements and steps are showcased and are either accepted into the idiom or eschewed. The analysis presented outlines the development of competitive step dance, with particular emphasis on developments during the post ‘Riverdance’ and ‘spectacle era’. Through ethnographic methods, it explores the social and cognitive processes of Irish Dance, examining in detail the winners of the 18-19 ladies’ and gentlemen’s competition at the World Championships 2006. Building on research carried out in the relatively new field of Irish Dance studies, the thesis argues for the inclusion of Irish dance in more general fields of Dance Studies and indeed of Irish Studies. Furthermore, it seeks to contribute to anthropological studies, dance education, ethnomusicology and ethno-choreology incorporating methodologies such as transcription, labanotation and fieldwork from an insider perspective in the post-spectacle era of Irish dance. It strives to bridge the gap between theory and practice and it is hoped that it will encourage other Irish music and dance practitioners to engage with academic research and reflection. Ultimately, it is advanced that creative opportunities within competitive Irish step dance are many, as the restrictions imposed by the regulatory nature of competition challenge the competent dancers to be more daring, push the boundaries without losing the sense of Irish dance aesthetic that will be accepted into the tradition.