The dancers of the Irish International Dance Company are mainly English and Irish and they train at our dance centres in London and Dublin. Here they are taught the highest levels and techniques of Irish dance. They also receive specialist training in the other dance styles featured in Spirit of the Dance, including Salsa, Flamenco, Tap and Jazz. Many of our dancers start at an early age, some as young as six years old. It's the sort of life fantasised by many kids who spend up to two hours everyday perfecting complex Irish dance steps. People always ask us if the dancers love what they do, and the answer to that becomes obvious when you see the vitality and sheer electricity that generates from the stage during the show. Their enthusiasm and energy shines as they dance, and you can see just how much they love it. The minute they walk on to that stage, they become totally immersed in their performance and give out everything they've got, because that is where they want to be. Our dancers rehearse everyday because it is vital that the precision and accuracy of all the dance steps is maintained to the highest level. Stamina is also an important consideration, and daily rehearsals help to maintain our dancers' strength and fitness, they have to be in peak condidtion for this sort of job. To keep injuries to a minimum the dancers warm up before each show and cool down afterwards. Part of being a dancer is learning how to look after your body. Dancers normally get two massages a week to help relax their muscles while getting regular updates on the best way to look after themselves. Many dancers have lost count of the number of countries they have performed in. On tour accomodation tends to be four or five star hotels, all expenses paid and an opportunity to see so many different places all around the world. Being a dancer on the show is highly rewarding , yet very demanding but it's worth it as there aren't many jobs where you receive a standing ovation. One of the best descriptions of the energy and dedication of our dancers was best summed up by a British newspaper that said "They sound like a runaway express train and their frenzied skill and military precision sends shivers down your spine. Not one Irish dance shoe steps out of line as the thunderous feet of the Irish Dance International Company perform as one, with a thrilling, foot-stomping excitement that leaves you gasping for breath". There is something absolutely riveting about the sight of loads of people dancing in perfect synchronicity. more >> home >>