Just back from playing at the WIDA Irish Open 2012..
I spent this weekend in the Pillo Hotel in Ashbourne, Co. Meath, Ireland playing the music for the WIDA (World Irish Dance Association) Irish Open 2012. The event, organised by Kevin Lyster, proved very popular attracting dancers from numerous countries to compete to win the championship titles.
This was my first time playing for a WIDA féis so it was quite exciting for me. The pick-up system was challenging as there are no breaks in the music between dancers on stage.
Saturday saw all the grade competitions over a mammoth 12 hours! Sunday was slightly more relaxed with all the championships taking place. The weekend came to an end with the céilí competition which was very exciting to play for and watch. I then got to sit back and relax whilst the figure and show dance competitions took place. Theses were most inventive in their choreography and very enjoyable!
The final leg of the WIDA Irish Open was the Parade of Champions, this is where the championship winner from each age group gets to perform a step in front of everyone to celebrate their titles. There’s a wee video of this below for anyone who fancies a look!
Well done to all the dancers that competed and a big congratulations to Kevin and everyone involved in making the event such a success! The picture above is of myself and Kevin towards the end of Sunday’s competition. The flags behind us represent all the countries taking part over the weekend. This was such a lovely féis to play for. I had a fantastic time over the weekend and am looking forward to playing at the next WIDA féis in Banbridge, Northern Ireland in January 2013!!