Irish Dance Competition Etiquette: A Guide for Dancers and Parents

Irish dance competitions are generally friendly, welcoming and supportive places.

Whether you're attending your first feis or your fiftieth, a little courtesy and consideration can help make the day more enjoyable for everyone. While every competition has its own rules and procedures, there are also a few unwritten rules that experienced Irish dance families tend to follow.

Respect the Seating

Every feis has that family.

They arrived at 8am, claimed an entire row of seats and barely use them most of the day, leaving a small child watching an Ipad in charge of guarding the seats.

Feiseanna can become busy, particularly later in the day. Try to keep bags, costumes and personal belongings organised and leave space for other families where possible.

A little consideration goes a long way when everyone is trying to find somewhere to sit.

Keep Walkways Clear

Irish dancers travel with an impressive amount of equipment.

Try not to block doorways, corridors, stairways or walkways. Remember that dancers in full costume may need to move quickly between stages.

No one wants to explain to the first aider that they were taken out by a rogue hair roller escaping from someone's wig bag.

Respect the Stage Area

Every dancer deserves the chance to perform without unnecessary distractions.

Avoid standing directly in front of the stage, walking across performance areas or holding loud conversations close to dancers who are competing.

A few moments of concentration can make a big difference to a nervous dancer preparing to perform.

Save the Catch-Up for Later

One of the nicest things about Irish dancing is catching up with friends from other schools.

However, the middle of a busy doorway or directly in front of the results table is rarely the ideal location for a reunion.

A quick glance around before settling into conversation can save a surprising amount of congestion.

Be Mindful With Photography and Video

Always follow the rules of the competition.

Many feiseanna have specific policies regarding photography and video recording, particularly where children are involved. If you're unsure, check with the organisers before recording.

Celebrate Success Gracefully

There is nothing wrong with being proud of your dancer.

Celebrate their achievements, take photos and enjoy the moment. However, remember that while one dancer may be celebrating, another may be disappointed with their result.

Good sportsmanship is one of the most valuable lessons Irish dancing teaches.

Handle Disappointment Well

Not every competition goes to plan.

Even the most successful dancers have difficult days. Sometimes a dancer forgets a step, sometimes they make a mistake and sometimes the results simply don't go the way they hoped.

Try to focus on effort, improvement and enjoyment rather than placings alone. Dancers often learn more from challenging days than easy victories.

Respect Volunteers and Organisers

Feiseanna rely on an army of volunteers, teachers and organisers.

The person answering questions at the registration desk probably didn't write the timetable, choose the venue or decide when your competition would run.

A little patience, understanding and a simple thank you are always appreciated.

Leave the Venue as You Found It

Competition venues are often hired from schools, sports halls and community centres.

Dispose of rubbish properly, clear away food packaging and leave your area tidy when you leave. Small actions from lots of families help ensure organisers can continue using these venues in the future.

Remember That Everyone Was New Once

Every experienced Irish dance parent remembers attending their first feis.

Nobody arrives knowing where Stage 2b is, what a recall means or why they suddenly own enough hair products to open a small salon.

If you see a new family looking slightly bewildered, a friendly smile or helpful suggestion can make a huge difference to their day.

Enjoy Being Part of the Community

One of the best things about Irish dancing is the sense of community.

The dancers standing beside each other today may become lifelong friends. The parent sitting next to you may become the person who lends you safety pins, hairspray or a spare pair of poodle socks when you need them most.

Irish dancing is competitive, but it is also a community built on shared experiences, friendships and mutual support.

A Positive Feis Experience Starts With All of Us

Good etiquette isn't about following a long list of rules.

It's simply about showing consideration for other dancers, families, teachers, volunteers and organisers.

By treating others with kindness and respect, we can all help make Irish dance competitions enjoyable experiences for everyone.