Symbolism of Irish dance steps?

Question

Can anyone refer me to more information or tell me about the symbolism of Irish dance steps?

Answer 1

Well, the steps refer to the ancient tradition of walking the Giants Causeway - a stair-like volcanic structure created thousands of years ago .

It is also written in Irish lore that a similar technique was used to daze/disorientate leprechauns, making them easier to capture. The belief then was that leprechauns, who, because of their stature are closer to the ground would be stunned by the vibrations.

Answer 2

There isn't any. It's just dancing.

Be aware that the Irish are very good at making up stories for the benefit of gullible foreigners - particularly ones about leprechauns and the giant's causeway.

Answer 3

Here is the links to some history of Irish dancing.

http://www.irelandseye.com/dance.html

http://www.helium.com/items/282370-beyon...

I've not heard much about particular symbolism to the steps.  More so I've heard about the symbolism of the costumes that step dancers wear, particularly the dresses for the girls that are often ornately decorated with Celtic symbols, and the colors/designs indicate which dance troup they're with and what level they're at and that kind of thing:

http://www.irelandseye.com/aarticles/cul...

http://www.crawfordirishdance.com/links....