Workshop: Sean Nós Dancing with Becky Ní Éalaithe

Sean nós dance was born in the West of Ireland and is not subjected to any kind of prearranged choreography, on the contrary it is based on a relaxed and loose performance, in which feet are a few inches from the floor on which they slide and clap rhythmically and percussion is executed by an heel-toe movement of the shoes, rather than by a musical instrument.

Becky Ní Éallaithe is a sean-nós dancer and concertina player from the Connemara Gaeltacht, where she is immersed in a vibrant tradition of music, song, and dance. She developed her love for traditional arts by watching and learning from local dancers and musicians in her community, later continuing her studies at the Irish World Academy at the University of Limerick.

Becky performs as a musician, dancer, and singer at festivals and concerts across Ireland and internationally. Her dancing is defined by its rhythm and musicality, always seeking a deep connection with the music and the musicians she collaborates with. Her creative work weaves together music, dance, song, and language, leading to collaborations with artists such as Edwina Guckian and Colin Dunne. She has also performs with traditional music groups including the Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh Band and Birkin Tree.