When most children start Irish dancing, parents are usually focused on finding a class, buying their first pair of pumps and helping their dancer enjoy their new hobby.
It often comes as a surprise to discover that there isn't just one organisation governing Irish dancing. Around the world, there are several different organisations, each with their own teachers, competitions, qualifications and championship events.
The good news is that for most beginners, the differences aren't nearly as important as they first appear.
What Is An Irish Dance Organisation?
An Irish dance organisation is a governing body that oversees certain aspects of Irish dancing.
Depending on the organisation, this may include:
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Teacher qualifications
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Adjudicator qualifications
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Competitions and championships
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Dance examinations
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Competition rules
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Codes of conduct
Most dancers belong to an organisation simply because their dance school is affiliated with it.
Why Are There Different Organisations?
Irish dancing has evolved over many decades and, like many activities, different organisations have formed over time.
Some organisations have been established for many years, while others were created more recently.
Each organisation has its own approach to governance, competitions and qualifications, but all share the common goal of promoting and developing Irish dancing.
Irish Dance Organisations You May Encounter
An Coimisiún Le Rincí Gaelacha (CLRG)
Often simply called "An Coimisiún", CLRG is the largest Irish dance organisation in the world.
Founded in 1930 by the Gaelic League, it established many of the structures that continue to influence competitive Irish dancing today.
CLRG organises the World Irish Dancing Championships (Oireachtas Rince na Cruinne) and has affiliated schools, teachers and adjudicators throughout the world.
An Comhdháil na Múinteoirí le Rincí Gaelacha (CRG)
Usually known simply as "An Comhdháil", this organisation was founded in 1970 and has a long history within Irish dancing and operates its own teacher qualifications, competitions and World Championships.
An Comhdháil schools can be found in Ireland, the United Kingdom and many other countries.
World Irish Dance Association (WIDA)
The World Irish Dance Association (WIDA) is a non-profit organisation devoted to promoting Irish dance around the world. Since its founding in 2004,
WIDA has developed a global presence and currently includes over 140 schools in 21 countries
Cumann Rince Dea Mheasa (CRDM)
CRDM is another Irish dance organisation with its own teachers, adjudicators and competition structure.
Many dancers and schools compete successfully within CRDM events throughout Ireland and internationally.
Cumann Rince Náisiúnta (CRN)
Cumann Rince Náisiúnta, CRN, was founded in 1982 and since its formation, has grown in strength and numbers and currently has a membership base in Ireland, the UK, across mainland Europe, USA, Canada and Australia.
Other Organisations
Depending on where you live, you may encounter other national, regional or independent Irish dance organisations.
The organisations listed above are simply some of the better-known bodies, but they are by no means the only organisations operating within Irish dancing.
The Irish dance landscape continues to evolve, and new organisations occasionally emerge while existing organisations continue to develop.
Does The Organisation Matter?
For most beginners, not particularly.
The quality of the teacher, the atmosphere of the class and whether your child enjoys dancing are usually far more important than the organisation itself.
Many excellent teachers can be found across different organisations.
When choosing a dance school, we would generally recommend focusing on:
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Whether your child enjoys the classes
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The teaching style
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The class environment
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The school's reputation
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Practical considerations such as travel distance and class times
These factors are often far more important than the name of the governing organisation.
Can Dancers Change Organisations?
In some circumstances, yes.
The rules surrounding transfers and dual registration can vary between organisations and may change over time.
If you are considering moving schools or organisations, it is always best to discuss the situation directly with your dance teacher, and/or an experienced parent, and check the current rules of the organisations involved.
Final Thoughts
The world of Irish dance organisations can seem confusing when you first encounter it.
Fortunately, most new dancers don't need to worry too much about the details.
The most important thing is finding a dance school where your child feels supported, enjoys learning and develops a love of Irish dancing.
The organisation behind the school may become more important as dancers progress, but for most beginners, enjoying the journey is what matters most.
Please note that this article is intended as a simple introduction for parents and dancers who are new to Irish dancing. It is not intended to be a comprehensive guide to every organisation operating within the Irish dance community.
We'd love to hear about your experiences and any advice you'd give to parents new to Irish dancing.