Irish Dance Celi

There will be two parts to this post.  Because it was an amazing night for our family.  Beyond words, amazing.  But first the Celi.

(a quick run through before it started)


Pronounced (K-Lee) , the Celi is a very old Irish tradition.  Social dances were an important part of Irish Dance heritage.  And the dances themselves, in that social setting are called Celi's.

(Hair before the Celi takes some time and some fun)


In March of each year the school of Irish Dance that Abigail attends celebrates the learning that they have done at their Celi.  It's a time to sit back and enjoy all of their hard work.  And it's a time for having fun.

(She was so excited it was so hard for her to hold still when there were friends to run off with)


(It was her first year wearing the Coogan School Uniform instead of a simple plaid skirt)


When she started (age five) I thought it would be a dance recital.  But this is very different.  Instead of stilling and facing a stage,  families are seating around decorated round tables with laughter and food.



This year we brought so many yummy foods to enjoy through the dancing.  Scott's Mom and my Mom too!

I baked a Tennessee Fudge Pie



And Scott grilled at home rolls with olive oil and made chicken, cilantro sandwiches.







The afternoon started the the New York Irish Show Band while the girls were all getting ready.  There was dancing (and eating) and talking.



And they the girls danced.  I loved loved watching Abigail dance this year.  She really made tremendous growth in her skills and in her love for dancing this year (more on this tomorrow)

She had a complicated soft shoe dance.

(I love this look on her face. Ready. Waiting for the music to start. Standing perfect. Eyes focused. Determined)


And up they go.





(I love her here too. Up on her toes. Arms straight at her side)


Her first group dance.







She smiled and loved it the whole time.  And we loved watching her!

More More More tomorrow!