Class and céilí series information

Our class schedule varies somewhat, so if you’re not already a “regular,” the best tip we can give you is to call us at (601) 291-3378 or drop us a line by contacting maggie@jacksonirishdancers.org before you come to your first class. We can give you the updated schedule and answer any questions. But here are some FAQs.

When are the classes?

We offer céilí and set dancing classes (social dances for a group, ages 12 to adult); we generally meet on Thursday evenings from 5:45 to 7 p.m. at the Ole Tavern on George Street (you may know it as George Street Grocery) in downtown Jackson. Classes are sometimes followed by an informal Irish music session with local musicians, so feel free to bring your fiddle or whistle along or just come to watch and listen. Check out our social media pages for details — beginners are welcome!

Currently, we are not able to offer solo dance classes or classes for children, but we would love to hear from you if you are interested in either of those. We’d love to be able to add these back to our list of offerings if enough inquiries are made!

How much are the classes?

Thursday classes are free to JID members, except for workshops with visiting instructors, which carry an additional fee. With very few exceptions, our classes are beginner-friendly! Your annual membership fee serves as a registration fee and supports everything we do. An annual membership is $25 for a family (required if your dancer is under 18) or $15 for an individual. Membership forms are available here, or you can click the GET INVOLVED button on the navigation tool to register online.

Who should come to classes?

To join our classes, you don’t need to have any Irish dance experience, and you don’t need a partner. We accept students starting at age 12 for céilí and set dancing, and our group includes all ages from kids to none of your business.

Who teaches the classes?

Our performance director and principal instructor is Catherine Bishop, MFA, TCRG. The “TCRG” certification means that Catherine has been qualified based on a rigorous exam to teach traditional Irish solo and group dances by the Dublin-based Irish Dance Commission. She also has MFAs in dance (ballet and ethnochoreology, the anthropology of traditional Irish dance) from SMU and from the University of Limerick, Ireland, where she studied as a Fulbright scholar. Other members of JID with teaching experience pitch in to teach our free weekly classes, as well. And, from time to time, we offer workshops or master classes with visiting instructors.

What can I expect from classes?

As is traditional, Irish dance classes are taught using a “one-room schoolhouse” model. You’ll join a class with dancers of all ages and varying skill levels. It’s a great workout, a fun way to meet some people you otherwise wouldn’t, and will also give you some background information on the rich history of Irish dancing.

What should I wear to classes?

Wear comfortable clothes that you can move around in, and clean, smooth-soled shoes (a ballet shoe, a smooth-soled lace-up, etc.). Irish dancing is high-impact, so shoes with some support may help! If you don’t have a pair of smooth-soled shoes, a clean pair of sneakers or even just socks will work for the first class or two. If you decide you enjoy this, your instructor will give you information on where to buy shoes designed for céilí dancing. For set dancing, any smooth-soled, securely fitting street shoe is appropriate.

What to bring to classes?

If you haven’t already joined JID as a member, bring your completed membership form and your membership fee (cash or check payable to Jackson Irish Dancers or we’ll accept Venmo or similar payment methods at the class). If you’d prefer to pay online, that can be done here. You also need to bring a completed release form for each dancer, which is required by our insurance. Bring a water bottle if you wish. We look forward to seeing you!

What else do I need to know?

Irish dancing is fun for all ages, and it’s also high-energy and high-impact. As with any new fitness activity, you are encouraged to check with your doctor before beginning if you have any special health concerns. We will request that you complete a release form before beginning.

What’s a céilí?

Céilí (pronounced “KAY-lee”) is Irish Gaelic for “gathering,” but it usually means “gathering with dancing and music.” Our definition is that it’s good old-fashioned fun. We love to offer a céilí from time to time, sometimes with live music from our friendly local musicians. Watch our social media for news about upcoming events like this!