Haley School of Irish Dance

 Below is a list of some frequently asked questions about the Haley School & Irish dancing in general.  If you have any other specific questions, please email them to the webmaster.

At what age can a child begin dancing lessons at the Haley School?

We recommend that your child be at least 4 years of age to attend classes. 

What is the dress code for dance class?

All dancers should wear shorts and a t-shirt, white socks (poodle socks) and ghillies/hard shoes.  Hair should be pulled back off the face.

Do the classes run all year?

Classes typically run from September through June.  Specialty classes and workshops are usually offered during the summer.

Are there any rules about class I need to know?

There are several things to keep in mind when sending your child to dance class:

1.  Please send your child to class with ample water.

2.  Do NOT send food or sticky sports drinks to class with your child.

3.  Have your child prepared on time.  Parents should tie ghillies for the little ones before the start of class. 

4.  Please refrain from interrupting class.  If you have questions for the teacher, please ask between classes, or via email/phone.   

Where can I purchase dance shoes and supplies?

Irish dance supplies may be purchased in a variety of locations, and online.  Please see the vendor list on the links page for more information.  You can also try and purchase shoes second hand within the classes or online.

What is a feis, and is participation required?

The word "Feis" (pronounced “fesh”) comes from a Gaelic word meaning "festival".    It is now referred to as a dance competition in which all members of an accredited Irish dance school may participate. 

At the Haley School, feis attendance is not mandatory.  We respect that some dancers are here only for enjoyment, or to connect with their irish heritage.  However, competitive dancing is an integral part of the Irish dance experience, and participation is recommended.  Most dancers who participate in these events really enjoy themselves and experience a great sense of accomplishment, regardless of their competitive level.

How are competitions organized?  What are the levels my child will go through?

Irish dance competitions are separated by age and level of expertise.  The levels are as follows:

Pre-beginner, beginner, advanced beginner, novice, prizewinner, preliminary championship, and open championship.

More detailed information about the competitive structure and the rules pertaining to level advancement can be found at the NAFC (North American Feis Commission).

Can you explain the costume that my child will need to wear in competition?

As a new dancer, your child may wear the Haley School beginner's costume.  This consists of a blue skirt and long-sleeve black leotard, and poodle socks and dance shoes.  (This costume is recommended only for beginner and adv. beginner dancers under age 12).  Kay Thompson makes the skirts, and her contact information is available through Maureen or Erin. 

Competitive dancers in the beginner through novice categories may also wear the formal school costume.  This is a much more elaborate dress than the beginner costume, and is worn by all dancers (regardless of level) in figure dancing events.  See the costume page for ordering information.

Solo costumes may be worn by dancers in levels prizewinner through open championship.  These dresses may be purchased second-hand or brand new, and range in cost depending on the age and design of the dress.  All dancers must approve dress choice with their TC prior to purchase.

All dancers must wear their hair pulled back off their face, with a ribbon, crown or headband to match their costume.  Most dancers choose to wear a wig for convenience, but this is not required for beginning dancers.

Irish Dance Terminology:

Ghillies (GIL-ees) - (Also called "soft shoes") Black, soft leather shoes with criss-crossed laces. Used to perform reels, light jigs, slip jigs, single jigs, and most figure dances.

Hard Shoes - Black leather shoes with fiberglass heels and taps on the toes. Used to perform treble jigs, hornpipes, set dances, and, in exhibitions and special competitions only, treble reels. Also called jig shoes, heavy shoes.

Poodle Socks- (also called bubble socks).  Special, white socks that must be worn by female dancers in competition.

Feis- (See above description)

Oireachtas - (or-ROK-tuhs) Regional Irish step dancing championships.  The New England region hosts its regional oireachtas in the third weekend of November each year.  Information about this competition may be found at www.idtane.com.