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Irish Dance Organizations Guide
- IIDA
- Oct 16, 2024
- 5 min read
A Guide to Irish Dance Organizations: Preserving Tradition, Promoting Culture
Irish dancing has captivated the hearts of many, from competitive dancers to casual enthusiasts. A number of organizations worldwide help regulate competitions, maintain traditions, and provide resources for dancers of all ages. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the main Irish dance organizations and what sets them apart.
1. An Coimisiún Le Rincà Gaelacha (CLRG)
Overview
Closed Platform (Must be a certified member to participate)
Website:Â CLRG
The CLRG, also known as The Irish Dancing Commission, is the largest and oldest organization governing Irish dance. They organize prestigious competitions, including the World Irish Dancing Championships (Oireachtas Rince na Cruinne), and oversee certification for teachers and adjudicators.
Key Activities:
Organizes local, regional, and international competitions
Offers teacher and adjudicator certification
Maintains a strict set of guidelines for both competitive and non-competitive Irish dancing
Why Dancers Choose CLRG:
With its rich history and global influence, the CLRG is often seen as the "gold standard" in Irish dancing. Its competitions are among the most coveted, and many schools affiliate with it for its wide reach and resources.
2. Cumann Rince Náisiúnta (CRN)
Overview
Open Platform
Website:Â CRN
CRN, or The National Dance Association, was formed by teachers who sought a more inclusive approach to Irish dancing competitions. The organization focuses on developing talent and offers a less rigid, more approachable structure for dancers.
Key Activities:
Promotes inclusive competitions at all levels
Focuses on encouraging dancers' development over strict competition rules
Provides scholarships and educational opportunities for young dancers
Why Dancers Choose CRN:
CRN’s flexible approach appeals to those looking for a balance between competitive dance and artistic expression. The organization promotes a community atmosphere, with an emphasis on helping dancers grow rather than solely focus on winning.
3. Cumann Náisiúnta Rince Gaelacha (CNRG)
Overview
Open Platform
Website:Â CNRG
CNRG, or The National Irish Dance Association, is one of the newer organizations on the Irish dance scene. It was created to provide a modern, transparent, and dancer-friendly alternative to the established governing bodies. CNRG places a strong emphasis on fairness, dancer wellbeing, and flexibility within the competitive world.
Key Activities:
Hosts a variety of competitions, with a focus on fair and transparent judging
Provides training and certification for teachers and adjudicators
Promotes inclusivity and supports dancers of all levels, ages, and backgrounds
Why Dancers Choose CNRG:
CNRG is appealing to dancers and teachers seeking a fair and inclusive competitive environment. It’s particularly popular among those who may have felt limited by the more traditional structures of other organizations. CNRG is known for promoting dancer wellbeing and a friendly, supportive atmosphere at its events.
4. An Comhdháil Na Múinteoirà Le Rincà Gaelacha (An Comhdháil)
Overview
Open Platform in North America Only
Website: An Comhdháil
An Comhdháil, known as The Congress of Irish Dance Teachers, places a strong emphasis on the cultural heritage and teaching aspects of Irish dancing. It provides an alternative competition system, distinct from CLRG, and prioritizes traditional Irish dance elements.
Key Activities:
Hosts national and international competitions
Encourages educational programs on the history and culture of Irish dance
Promotes community engagement through local Irish dance schools
Why Dancers Choose An Comhdháil:
Dancers and teachers who value tradition and teaching over intense competition find An Comhdháil appealing. The organization also supports small, local dance schools and celebrates the cultural aspects of Irish dance.
5. Cumann Rince Dea Mheasa (CRDM)
Overview
Open Platform
Website:Â CRDM
CRDM, or The Respectful Irish Dancing Association, was created to offer dancers and teachers an alternative to the more established governing bodies. It aims to create a fair, transparent, and respectful environment in the Irish dancing world.
Key Activities:
Focuses on dancer well-being and respectful conduct at competitions
Organizes a range of competitions, both nationally and internationally
Certifies teachers and adjudicators with an emphasis on ethical standards
Why Dancers Choose CRDM:
CRDM is known for its fair judging and respectful atmosphere. It appeals to dancers who may have had negative experiences elsewhere and seek a more supportive, community-focused environment.
6. World Irish Dance Association (WIDA)
Overview
Open Platform
Website:Â WIDA
WIDA focuses on promoting Irish dance across Europe and around the world. They offer a more open, accessible approach to competitions, including opportunities for adult dancers and non-traditional schools to participate.
Key Activities:
Hosts international competitions, especially in non-Irish speaking countries
Encourages participation from dancers of all ages and skill levels
Offers teacher training and certification
Why Dancers Choose WIDA:
WIDA’s global perspective and flexible competition system make it an appealing choice for international dancers and adult competitors. It’s a great option for those outside of Ireland or those who are new to Irish dance.
7. Open Platform Irish Dancing Federation (OPIDF)
Overview
Open Platform
Website:Â OPIDF
The Open Platform Irish Dancing Federation (OPIDF) was established to provide an inclusive space for all dancers, regardless of their school or organizational affiliations. OPIDF promotes openness in Irish dance competitions by allowing dancers from any background to compete. This flexibility fosters a creative and welcoming atmosphere for dancers worldwide, encouraging participation while still respecting the traditional roots of Irish dance.
Key Activities:
Organizes open platform competitions worldwide
Promotes inclusivity, allowing dancers from all affiliations to compete
Offers a space for non-traditional and experimental Irish dance styles
Why Dancers Choose OPIDF:
OPIDF is ideal for dancers who want to compete without being bound to a specific organization. Its open platform approach attracts those who seek flexibility, inclusivity, and the freedom to express their unique styles while celebrating the traditional essence of Irish dance.
8. Rince Tuatha Nua (RTN)
Overview
Open Platform
Website:Â RTN
Rince Tuatha Nua (RTN) was established with the goal of offering a fresh and innovative approach to Irish dance. RTN places a strong emphasis on fairness, transparency, and flexibility in its competitive events. The organization promotes a welcoming environment where dancers of all backgrounds and abilities can participate without restrictive regulations, fostering a more open and creative atmosphere.
Key Activities:
Hosts regional and international competitions with open participation
Provides teacher and adjudicator certification programs
Encourages innovation and flexibility in choreography while maintaining traditional Irish dance elements
Why Dancers Choose RTN:
RTN appeals to dancers who value an inclusive, open platform that allows for more flexibility in competition. Its focus on fairness and transparency, combined with an openness to innovation, makes it an attractive choice for dancers seeking a modern, yet still culturally rooted, Irish dance experience. With so many organizations it can be difficult to find the right fit for you and your school. If you would like help connecting with a representative from an organization please contact us and we will be happy to help. All information on Organizations taken from website text. If you are on the board of a governing body and would like information changed please contact us to update your organization information.