Danceperados of Ireland - Spirit of Irish Christmas

Spirit of Irish Christmas

Every country has its own special way of celebrating Christmas. Ireland is no exception. Danceperados of Ireland bring us closer to Irish Christmas traditions through their "Irish Christmas Show". They transport us into this unique time, which has many original customs, such as the "Wren Boys" - young men who blacken their faces, wear strange straw hats, and dress in rags. They go from house to house, sing special songs, and collect gifts. In ancient times, they were accompanied by a captured wren. This bird was considered an ally of the devil. It becomes clear: Irish traditions reach back to pre-Christian times.

Danceperados take us back to an era before the commercialization of Christmas and the ubiquitous Western Santa Claus. English colonial rulers once banned Catholic Mass, especially in the Gaelic language, accompanied by Irish folk music. There are ancient hymns in Gaelic sung at Christmas - they will be heard during the "Irish Christmas Show". These are joined by English-language Christmas carols. The "Wexford Carol", for example, is known worldwide.

Because many Irish people, both then and now, had to earn their living abroad, Christmas is always the time of year when all Irish people living abroad long to return home. They haven't seen their friends and families for a whole year, and now they are incredibly happy to celebrate together. The pubs are packed, whiskey and beer flow freely. Jigs and reels are played, some even with Christmas names, like "Christmas Eve". Wherever jigs and reels are played, people dance with passion... It becomes clear: an Irish step-dancing show with the motto "Irish Christmas" - that's a perfect match!