Few things are as joyous and magical as dance. And few countries revel in movement more than Ireland. Irish dance is a blend of traditional forms and sprightly music, both of which are brought to life at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, January 24, 2025. “JIG,” is a Trinity Irish Dance Company (TIDC) production that welcomes dancers, musicians and the audience to celebrate the power of vibrations, rhythm and movement.
A New Spin on Irish Dancing with the Trinity Irish Dance Company’s ‘JIG’
Many of us have seen the distinctively Irish dance style of lowered arms and flying feet. But with the Trinity Irish Dance Company, founded in 1990, progressive Irish dance has evolved to use the style as both instrument and metaphor of passion, flair and precision. No longer centered exclusively on the rigid form, TIDC founders increased the vocabulary of movement into something new and special.
“JIG” is in only the second season of its touring career. Despite being a new show, it showcases all the TIDC elements we’ve come to know and love. Associate Artistic Director, choreographer and dancer Chelsea Hoy has been with TIDC for 10 years and grew up in the Irish dancing world.
Hoy says their shows are beloved by 8-year-olds and 88-year-olds alike. “Founding Artistic Director Mark Howard created ‘JIG’ to double down on Trinity Irish Dance Company’s unique ability to connect with audiences, breaking the fourth wall and providing authentic experiences through innovative music and movement,” she adds.
Dancing Across the Country Spreads Joy and Delight this Winter
The January 24 stop at the Washington Center is part of a six-city winter tour. The troupe will perform in Utah, Ohio, Oregon, Washington and Massachusetts along the way.
Taking the stage are four musicians and ten dancers. Hoy says their show has been called dance for music lovers and music for dance lovers.
Fronted by Killarney-raised, New York-based singer songwriter BRENOSHEA (Brendan O’Shea) the TIDC band is comprised of All-Ireland fiddle and bodhran champion Jake James, along with Chicago musicians Chris Devlin (guitar/vocals) and Steven Rutledge (percussionist/vocals).
That eclectic quartet combines with an international cast of ten virtuosic dancers including Hoy, Toronto-based solo world champion Patrick Grant and Mexico’s most accomplished Irish dancer Francisco Lemus. Lemus was just named to Dance Magazine’s 2025 ‘25 to Watch.’ The company is rounded out by percussive powerhouses Saori Nakasone Nakamurakari, Anna Gorman, Lydia Fredrick, Rachel Olson, Aubrey Chann and Micah Roby.
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The “JIG” team works with venues to make sure the stage is marked to specific dimensions for their performers. This ensures a consistent artistic experience, says Hoy, with a big pinch of “things will turn out,” their touring community’s mantra.
You can sign up for the TIDC newsletter to track their adventures on the road or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
The Washington Center show kicks off at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, January 24, dancing shoes not required. You can purchase tickets online or at the Box Office which is open from noon until 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. They’re also open two hours before any ticketed performance. Call 360.753.8586 or email boxoffice@washingtoncenter.org with questions.
If dance is your passion, check out Ballet Northwest’s “Classical Duets” on January 12 or “The Aluminum Show” on January 19. For a percussive fusion experience from this side of the pond, don’t miss “The Pack Drumline” with their dynamic beats and high-energy rhythms.
Historians believe that the Irish dancing technique of downward held arms began simply as a preference by 18th century dancing instructors who found it more dignified. But today Irish dance is synonymous with Riverdance and the Trinity Irish Dance Company who’ve breathed new life into the form as they escorted it into the 21st century.
So, combat the winter doldrums with a night to remember, thanks to a sprightly tune and energetic “JIG.” You’ll have plenty of fun without needing luggage, your passport or a sturdy handmade Shillelagh to brave the Emerald Isle’s stunning beauty.
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