How to Do a Ceilidh Dance

Irish weddings often include ceilidh dancing, which is a lively rendition of folk, barn and country dancing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Yellow Pages
• Local Bridal Magazines
• Local Newspapers
• Internet Access
• Computers

1. Find a ceilidh band to play at the wedding. Look in the yellow pages under "music," contact entertainment companies or look in regional wedding magazines for local listings.
2. Look in the entertainment section of your local newspaper for notices of upcoming ceilidh dances.
3. Do a search online for vendors in your area.
4. When you contact a band, ask where they will be playing so you can hear how they sound live before you sign any contracts.
5. Request demo tapes so you can compare several options.
6. Check references to make sure other customers were satisfied.
7. Listen to samples of ceilidh music online so you will know how it should sound.
8. Understand that a ceilidh band today typically has a saxophone or trumpet player who stands up while he performs. This is in contrast to barn dancing, which usually has an accordion player who sits down.
9. Opt for a more modern version of the music, which could include electronics and a drum kit.
10. Hire a caller to lead the dancing.
11. Sign up for dance lessons with the entire wedding party so you can all learn some of the steps.
12. Encourage all of your wedding guests to get up and join in the dance.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that ceilidh dancing is also used at Scottish and English weddings.
• Have fun with the dancing.

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