Ready, SET: Irish Set Dance at Mulberry Art Studios
Dancer/Instructor Joan Benjamin brings a bit of beautiful Ireland to Mulberry Art Studios on Sunday afternoons when she leads Ready, SET- an Irish Set Dance class. The classes are offered from 5-7pm on Sundays, and do not require any prior knowledge of the dance. Come alone (she'll find you a partner), as a couple, or in a complete set of eight. Fun and new friends are guaranteed, and perhaps even a slice of Irish soda bread.
Irish set dance is traditional, social and interactive dance, done with four couples in a 'set'. Think square dancing, only done to Ireland's lively jigs, reels and hornpipes. "It is not Riverdance," Benjamin explains, "no jumping, hopping or skipping; it is enjoyed by gents and ladies from early to golden years." Five easy basic steps are danced in multiple combinations, called 'figures', according to the dance, which is typically named after a county in Ireland. Before the dance is ended, each one usually has the chance to interact with the other members of their set. Dress and shoes are casual, although leather-bottom shoes are preferred by veterans, and flip-flops or open-toed shoes are the only 'no wear'.
For more information and to register for classes, please contact Joan Benjamin at 717 283 0392 or joanben256@yahoo.com.
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