Learn a Traditional Irish Solo Set Dance: “Three Sea Captains” with Kelly Smit

This session features “Three Sea Captains” – a traditional Irish solo set dance done in a style similar to tap dancing, with specific steps danced to a specific tune. Experience with tap, Irish step, or sean nós dance is recommended for this particular dance.

The “Three Sea Captains” is done to its own unique jig music and fixed, standardized choreography. The dance and its tune commemorate the famous naval Battle of Navarino in 1827. The “three sea captains” refer to the commanders of the allied British, French, and Russian fleets who defeated the combined Turko-Egyptian forces during the Greek War of Independence. According to Irish dancing folklore, the steps and figures of the dance were originally meant to mimic ships lining up for battle, followed by a turning maneuver and a return to base.

Cost: $5 per class – pay in cash at the door or online in advance.

Tip: Wear supportive shoes with a smooth, hard sole (not athletic shoes).

About the Instructor: Kelly Smit has been teaching and performing Irish dance for over 15 years, learning from and sharing steps with dancers across the US and Ireland. You’ll often catch her dancing up a storm at Baltimore’s trad music sessions!

Come learn a piece of Ireland’s living dance tradition – and have fun doing it!

About the Venue: The Clubhouse is a 100-seat, intimate performance space located in the heart of the Catonsville Arts District. Recently acquired, it is owned and operated by the Baltimore County Arts Guild and serves as a center of the arts in Baltimore County. Additional classrooms provide space for classes and workshops. Rentals: www.bcartsguild.org/clubhouserentals