Which class to join?

I’ve never danced before - can I join?

Absolutely! We run absolute beginners courses through the year which take you through the very basics. Sadly our upcoming courses are fully booked and our waitlist is also closed for the time being, but follow on Instagram and sign up to our newsletter to hear about upcoming opportunities for absolute beginners.

If you already have some of the basic footwork of Irish dancing, you can try out our all-ability Ceili classes on Tuesday nights!

If you don’t have any experience of dancing or Irish dancing, we kindly ask that you take part in an absolute beginners course before joining any regular beginners class, so that we can keep the class level right for everyone!

I remember some steps from when I was a child - which class should I join?

Our booking website includes descriptins of each class and links to videos to give you a sense of the choreography taught at each class level.

I used to compete at an advanced level or teach but just want to dance for fun, is that okay?

Absolutely! Lots of our intermediate dancers used to compete but now just do it for fun. Come along to our Monday evening class, our Wednesday 8pm or our Ceili class on Tuesdays.

Who can join?

What ages can join?

18+. We’ve had dancers from 19 into their late 60’s so far!

I’m worried I’m out of shape and won’t be able to keep up - can I still join?

Yes yes yes! You can stop and start whenever you fancy throughout the class. No pressure and never any judgement! It’s all just for fun.

I dance/teach/judge for a specific competitive commission - can I join?

Absolutely. We have no competitive associations and everyone is welcome.

I have a disability or health condition that requires a specific access requirement - what should I do?

Drop me an email hello@jigandaswig.co.uk and we can support! We also have an option on the sign-up form to flag any accessibility requirements.

Is this a safe space for me?

We welcome all dancers regardless of gender/gender identity, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, religion, age (18+) or employment status. Harassment or bullying won’t be tolerated and by attending any of our events in any capacity (whether you are a professional or a first time dancer) you agree to treat all participants with care and respect and to abide by our code of conduct.

How can I book?

Take a good read of our Booking FAQ’s which should answer all your questions. Booking terms are also included on our booking page.

How much are classes?

£10 for one hour or a discount if you book a 12 or 18 week pass each term. One-off workshops and taster sessions may cost more.

How many classes do I need to book?

You only need to sign up to one class at time for a weekly classes. This means you can test it out and decide which level suits you best!

Do you offer free taster sessions?

We do not offer free taster sessions but do have one-off classes throughout the year for people to book a ticket for to try us out!

Do you teach on Thursdays, Fridays or weekends?

Not at the moment, but planning to introduce more classes i the summer of 2024.

Can I book a private class?

We don’t currently offer private classes for individuals but do offer private group classes and performances for workplaces, hen parties and special events! Send us in an email for more info.

What should I wear?

Do I need to wear Irish dancing shoes?

Not at all. You can wear trainers/jazz shoes/ballet shoes/dance trainers. If you have Irish dancing light shoes or heavy shoes, bring them along! On Monday nights, we do not use heavy shoes.

We recommend everyone wear shoes of some form (rather than socks), to avoid accidents and injuries.

I want to get some shoes - what would you recommend?

Soft shoes - Ladies

Soft shoes - Gents

Heavy shoes

Dance trainers - can be used for light and heavy shoe

Note: We don’t teach gendered choreography - wear whatever shoes you want! The most basic version of each shoe type will work just fine, no need to spend a lot!