Máirt

Máirt is a traditional Irish dance performed by a group of dancers, typically eight in number, with four men and four women. The dance is characterized by its intricate footwork, precise timing, and the use of hand gestures to convey the rhythm and story of the dance. Máirt is danced in a circular formation, with the dancers facing inward, and the dance is typically performed to live music.

The dance is named after Máirtín Ó Cadhain, an Irish dancer and choreographer who is credited with developing the modern form of Máirt. The dance is often performed at social events, cultural festivals, and competitions, and is considered a symbol of Irish cultural heritage.

Máirt is known for its technical demands, with dancers required to perform complex footwork patterns, such as the "sliotar" (a quick, sharp movement of the foot) and the "cabhrán" (a quick, sharp movement of the heel). The dance is also known for its use of hand gestures, such as the "sliotar" (a quick, sharp movement of the hand) and the "cabhrán" (a quick, sharp movement of the wrist), which are used to convey the rhythm and story of the dance.

Máirt is typically performed to live music, with the dancers' movements synchronized to the rhythm of the music. The dance is often performed in sets, with each set consisting of a number of dances, such as the "Ceol Rince" (a lively dance) and the "Ceol Mór" (a more complex dance). The dance is also known for its use of traditional Irish music instruments, such as the fiddle, the flute, and the bodhrán.

Máirt is a popular dance in Ireland and is taught in dance schools and clubs throughout the country. The dance is also performed by Irish dance groups around the world, and is considered a symbol of Irish cultural heritage. The dance is typically performed in a traditional Irish costume, which includes a bodice, a skirt, and a shawl, and is often accompanied by traditional Irish music.