The four Irish dancers in my clan performed in their first feis this weekend.  It was the annual school feis so a bit of an introduction to the larger open feis competitions that will come.  

You can see that there were some nerves the first time out on the big stage.  We had to laugh when editing these because if you notice the little girl off the right had the exact same posture. 

However some people were able to very quickly put those to rest and came to embrace the spotlight. 

 A lot. Ahem. 

They were told not to expect to place in their first feis but managed to secure four trophies and several second and third medals between them.  I maintain it is those dominant Irish genes shining through. ; )  

 

The world of Irish dance is exhilarating and addictive.  Flashy costumes, intoxicating music, legs flying, faces crowded around the screen surfing for wigs and dresses last night, and  reels and jigs populating the ipod menus.  No question, they are hooked. And it looks like they are recruiting another little brother. 

"Dear angel, Ever at my side 

Be there today, my feet to guide. 

Help me dance high, and light, and free, 

So everyone will be proud of me. 

May the judges be fair and the stages be spacious. 

In winning and losing let me be gracious, 

So that every dance I'll remember with pride. 

And angel, please keep my shoelaces tied."

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