Dance is for everyone

such an expressive form, you can only say so much with words”.

Regarding the festival she said: “Many dancers especially in rural areas are on their own in the studio... we thought it would be lovely to share each other’s practice in a non-competitive manner and show that dance is for everyone.”

The participatory nature of the festival was evident with workshops and dance performances as well as a commissioned piece performed by residents of the Dingle Camphill Community and directed by Zoe Uí Fhaolain.

Maria spoke of the generosity of all the performers and the people who supported the festival, giving special mention to Malcolm George of Beehive theatre, Bosco Ó Conchúir, and Caitríona Fallon of Siamsa Tíre who provided technical support and equipment.

The festival was conducted through the medium of Irish and this was enhanced by the inclusion of dancers Ríonach Ní Néill and the internationally acclaimed dancer from An Rinn Gaeltacht and choreographer of ‘The Casement Project’ Fearghus ó Conchúir,.

The festival was “everything we ever dreamed of,” said Maria.

Director of An Lab Aine Moynihan thanked the Board of an Díseart for making their premises available after An Lab had to move out of the former CBS. She also acknowledged the great work of festival directors Nick Bryson and Maria Svennsson as well as the participating dancers, technicians and local people whose support was critical to the success of the festival.