Costumes

Costumes are the generally the responsibility of the individual. There are several costumes used by the school depending on the age and dancing level of the individual. Traditional Irish dress is represented in the school dress which features embroidery designs taken from the Book of Kells. This costume is worn by intermediate dancers for competition and performance as well as advanced dancers when taking part in group competition. Advanced dancers may also require a solo dress. Costume requirements can be discussed with Carlene for the appropriate choice.

The school uses the services of a seamstress Laura Early for preparation of school costumes.   These must be ordered well in advance as the preparation time is rather lengthy. Costumes can often be purchased second hand through families in the school who have outgrown them and are moving up in size. Again, Carlene may be able to direct you to someone wishing to sell a costume.

Shoes worn are the traditional Irish ghillie for soft shoe dancing and the hard shoe. These may be purchased through the following sources as well as at Feiseanna (Irish dance competitions) or in some Irish import stores in larger cities such as Boston. The Scottish ghillie which looks somewhat similar is NOT appropriate and is not allowed to be worn in Irish dance competition.

Click here to link to these shoe vendors:

RUTHERFORD PRODUCTS

FAY'S SHOES