The Emerald Isle Highland Dance Festival

About

The Emerald Isle Highland Dancing Festival will commence on Saturday 27th July 2024, and will be held in Nendrum College, Comber. The programme will begin with a familiar style competition, where we will welcome large numbers of dancers from all countries, age groups and abilities. The schedule will be split into several sessions with young dancers competing in the morning & senior dancers performing later in the afternoon.

The day will conclude with a Special Choreography Showcase inviting dancers to perform with a set theme of music. This will be unique, new experience for local Highland Dancers, as we encourage creativity beyond the usual solo, military-fashioned competitions they have seen in the past.

Events continue Sunday 30th July 2024, where we will witness the best Premier dancers compete in the All-Ireland Confined Highland Dancing Championship and the Emerald Isle Open Highland Dancing Championship. Dancers are expected to travel from countries near and far. The event is strategically placed in the calendar to attract dancers that will already be on route to Scotland for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo or the World Highland Dancing Championships.

Each session is completed with a prize-giving ceremony, and we will not be presenting "normal" trophies for every group. Every dancer will receive a commemorative gift, plus some prizes will be local crafts and artwork to showcase local artists and landmarks to our overseas visitors. This will utilise the natural and cultural assets of the borough.

Finally, on the 3rd day of the festival, dancers, teachers and volunteers are encouraged to learn new skills at a series of inspirational workshops led by Former World Champions. This non-competitive, fun and friendly environment will support positive community involvement that will benefit the mental and physical health of all participants.

This event is Grant Aided by Ards and North Down Borough Council's Community Development Department.