FEATURES OF IRISH STEP DANCE MODIFICATION : FROM FOLKLORE TO GLOBAL SHOW

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to trace the evolution of Irish dance and identify the influence of dance shows on its
professionalization, as well as to investigate the transformations of Irish folk dance in the performing arts.
Research methodology. Research methodology. The method of analysis and synthesis, the cultural-historical method
(to consider the development of Irish dance in historical retrospect), the typological method (to identify choreographic
vocabulary typical of Irish dance), the method of comparative analysis (to identify common and distinctive features between
authentic and folk-stage forms of Irish dance), the method of theoretical generalization, etc. were applied.
Scientific novelty. The path of development of Irish dance from traveling masters of the 18th century to
commercialized shows of the first quarter of the 21st century is considered. The transformation from Irish steppe to the
extravagant theatrical dance show Riverdance is traced. The role of dance in the formation of Irish identity in the conditions of
European modernization is specified and it is found out how dance became a part of globalized Irish culture and a tool for
branding the nation. It is stated that at the present stage Irish folk stage dance is a complex synthesis of choreography, athletics and light show. On the basis of art historical analysis, the features of the technique of performing Irish dance on the modern stage are revealed. Technical modifications that took place during the late 20th and first quarter of the 21 st centuries, in particular, body work, hand movements (broad movements borrowed from jazz dance and flamenco are an effective tool for
enhancing expression, which contributes to the dynamization and emotional saturation of the performance), increased
spectacle due to the complication of the performance technique and virtuosity of the performance (high jumps, large
movements around the stage, complex «clicks» at an atypical height), synchronicity of performance, synthesis of the
vocabulary of Irish folk dance with other choreographic languages (elements of classical dance and modern dance), etc. testify
to the specifics of the evolution of choreographic vocabulary under the influence of the demands of the modern global cultural
market.
Practical significance. Certain aspects and conclusions of the study can be used in further scientific development
of the issues of related to various aspects of Irish folk stage dance.