Céilís

Originally the main focus of the Branch was the regular music sessions. During the period 1970-1974 Donncha Ó Muíneacháin RIP, who had a keen interest in dancing, held dancing classes under the auspices of Craobh Seán Treacy CCÉ. The first class was held on Thursday 12 November 1970 in Brú na nGael, 6 North Great Georges St, Dublin. Later the venue was changed to 44 Parnell Square. Mostly céilí dancing was taught at these classes but some country sets and step dancing for those who were interested were gradually introduced.

The Branch therefore has had a strong tradition of dancing and has been well represented by adults and the 3 categories of under 18.s in the céilí and set dancing competitions of the Dublin and Leinster Fleadh Cheoil over the years.

The Branch, together with Naomh Mearnóg GAA Club, Portmarnock, has been involved in the organisation of this céilí on the 3rd Friday of every month for deserving charities. Donncha Ó'Muíneacháin, R.I.P. was closely associated with the running of this céilí, and it has been continued in his memory.

Venue: Naomh Mearnóg GAA Club, Portmarnock         Cead Isteach: €10

Look up the Diary Dates section of the website for the latest dates and céilí bands playing.

Video of Two-hand Dances for Sale
"Beirt Eile" is a VHS video of two-hand dances produced by Donncha Ó Muínneacháin, RIP, for Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. The purpose of the video is to meet the growing demand for more variety at céilithe, at which sets and/or other céilí dances (mostly sets) predominate. The idea sprung from a Comhaltas workshop in two-hand dances in Cois na hAbhna, Ennis, Co. Clare in November 2003.

The video is 32 minutes duration and the twelve dances are demonstrated by Donncha and Brenda Hogan with assistance from many others.

The dances featured on the video are:
2-hand reel, 2 hand jig, Stack of Barley (3 versions), Siamsa Beirte (a 2-hand hornpipe), Shoe the Donkey/Verse of Vienna, the Schottische, The Peeler and the Goat, Highland/Fling (2 versions) and the odd one out - a three hand Highland

Copies of the video are available from Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Cearnóg Belgrave, Baile na Manach, Co. Átha Cliath, or The Treasurer, Craobh Seán Treacy CCE, price €17.00