The Academy of Performance Irish Dance
The perfect place to learn performance Irish Dance in Edinburgh!
Siamsoir does not just teach steps, we create opportunities and equip you with the tools needed to take on everyday life in a positive and productive way.
Experienced dancers from the troupe alongside the Director will host each weekly dance session, instructing you in technical and performance elements of Performance Irish Dance.
To get started at the Academy simply fill inand return the downloadable form in the column to right and come along to a session.
We can't wait to meet you!
Dance Sessions
At the Academy there is always more than one session leader in each session so if you need a little extra help then you will get the attention you need without paying for one to one tuition.
Each session consists of:
10 minute warm up
30 minute technical elements (soft shoe)
10 minute reflective session
30 minute technical elements (hard shoe) [Level one after three months]
30 minute performance session
10 minute cool down
[60 minute Siamsoir Performance Troupe session]
Sessions are from October to December and then January to June every year.
The Academy is open to those aged 16 and up (age is but a number!), complete beginners or those who have had a lot of experience in dance or Irish Dance.
Reflection Session
In addition to the expected instruction format, our Academy offers a unique ‘reflection session’. This is an opportunity to get to know the other dancers and learn more about you as a person, dancer and performer.
You will also gain positive thinking techniques and nutrition & exercise knowledge which will help you every day. The aim is to improve how you see yourself - because your opinion of who you are is the most important one.
Performances
Throughout the year there will be the chance for those who want, to perform the material that you have been learning in the Performance Sessions, in particular, at the annual 'Celtic Celebrations' music and dance evening each St Patrick's Day.
The end of year annual show in May will be a chance for you to showcase your new skills to your friends, family and colleagues and take part in the after show cast celebration that follows the performance.
Timetable
Level One
(complete beginners or those who have done a small amount of Irish. If you are unsure then come to the beginners class and we can take it from there)
Sundays - taster session 17th October, first class 31st October.
5pm - 7pm
The Halls, 6 Henderson Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6BS
Level Two
(for those who are reasonably accomplished Irish Dancers)
Thursdays - first class 21st October
6pm - 9pm
Leith Education Community Centre, 12a New Kirkgate, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6AQ
The Siamsoir Performance Troupe will rehearse after the Level Two sessions
- first session 30th September.
Prices
The Taster Session costs £1
(See the Events page for more information)
Classes cost £4
Annual membership to the Academy costs £20.
For this you get a welcome pack which includes:
- a cd of music to practise with
- a calendar of events for the year
- a progress sheet to measure your achievements
- a dancers conduct information sheet
- set choreography notation
Performance Troupe
Whilst at the Academy it is possible to apply for a position on the Siamsoir Performance Troupe.
At Siamsoir, the team spirit is the most important element of our strength as a Troupe. We work hard but we work together. There are no lead dancers and diva's are certainly not allowed! It is not always the 'best' dancer who is the best performer. A great performer is of more value to the Siamsoir team than a technically superior dancer.
The Siamsoir experience is a unique one and cherished by those who manage to attain a place on the troupe. It is an honour to be a part of this unique troupe.
The auditions are in October each year and every member of the troupe is expected to audition to gain a place.
Learn more about the Siamsoir Performance Troupe