Ierland in De Dans

An Irish céilí is a traditional, social form of group dance with live music, which can still be experienced in Ireland today at all kinds of festive occasions. The workshop consists of a varied programme led by the enthusiastic and knowledgeable caller Rosalie Wagenaar. Rosalie knows all about the various dance figures and explains them in a very accessible way, so that everyone, young and old, experienced and beginner, can join in.

Of course, an Irish céilí calls for a céilí band, and there will be one. We'll dance to live music played by Hilke Broodtaerts on fiddle, Rozanne Ebenau on guitar, and Erik de Jong on accordion. These experienced musicians play together regularly, including during the Irish sessions at O'Ceallaigh's Irish Pub in Groningen.

Nothing is as enjoyable as playing for dancers; after all, Irish music is a social event for musicians, dancers, and audience alike. The band members and their caller are hoping for as many enthusiastic participants as possible, to be swept up in one big, atmospheric céilí to swinging Irish tunes.

And of course, you're also more than welcome to come and watch and listen!

In collaboration with St. Folk

Rosalie Wagenaar first came into contact with Irish dance as a young child through Michael Flatley's show Lord of the Dance. After years of competing at a high level and performing as a professional dancer, she opened her own dance school in 2014. Rosalie is one of only five certified Irish dance teachers in the Netherlands for the CLRG organisation.

The band consists of three local musicians: Hilke Broodtaerts on fiddle, Rozanne Ebenau on guitar, and Erik de Jong on accordion. They know each other through O'Ceallaigh's Irish Pub in Groningen. They perform together regularly throughout the country, and also frequently accompany Irish/Scottish dance events, such as this one at Noorderzon.