Competition Resource Links
Find everything you need to prepare for your next event right here.
Access your dancer’s class videos, choreography breakdowns, and step reviews here. The page is password protected. The current password is listed in the dance studio.
Listen to the right tunes to practice at home. The page is password protected. The current password is listed in the dance studio.
Get ready for your next grade exam with our step-by-step theory and footwork guides. The page is password protected. The current password is listed in the dance studio.
Competitive Dancing FAQ’s
Whether you are prepping for your very first local Feis, wondering about CRDM USA advancement rules, or trying to figure out when it’s time for a solo dress, we’ve got you covered. Explore our community FAQs below to find clear answers, expert tips, and helpful resources to keep your dancer stepping out with confidence.
A feis (pronounced “fesh”—pluralized as feiseanna or simply feises) is a traditional Irish dance competition.
Historically, the word comes from the Irish Gaelic term for a festival, gathering, or cultural celebration. Centuries ago, a feis was a community gathering that included Irish music, storytelling, poetry, and dance.
Today, while some large events still include traditional music or baking competitions, a feis is primarily focused on competitive Irish step dancing.
Visit CRDM USA’s Feisanna Information page to view upcoming feisanna in your area.Today, while some large events still include traditional music or baking competitions, a feis is primarily focused on competitive Irish step dancing.
If your dancer is ready to take the stage, please reach out to Miss Amelia! She will gladly guide you through the registration process, help you navigate the system, and let you know exactly which competitive levels and dances to select for your dancer.
CRDM USA is the newest branch of CRDM.
Cumann Rince Dea Mheas (CRDM) translates to “Association of Right Respect.” Founded in Ireland, CRDM places a massive emphasis on fairness, affordability, inclusivity, and a welcoming community culture. While it maintains high technical standards similar to other organizations (like CLRG or An Comhdháil), CRDM is known for its friendly environment, clear grading structures, and being open to independent teachers and schools.
Beginner A: Focuses on basic steps, timing, and posture in light shoes.
Beginner B: Introduces more complex rhythms and the introduction of heavy shoes.
Intermediate: Where execution, speed, and performance style become critical.
Preliminary: The second-highest tier. It is designed for dancers who have met the specific grade requirements but have not yet won a major Open Championship.
Open Champion: The highest level, where dancers compete with intricate, custom choreography at major regional and World Championships.
At the Nicholl Irish Dancers, eligibility for the World Championships is open to dancers who have advanced to the Open level. Because this major event requires an elite standard of performance, qualification is ultimately at the teacher’s discretion, based on the dancer’s consistent hard work, dedication, and technical readiness in class.
In the lower beginner tiers, dancers typically wear their school costume or standard black athletic wear, depending on the specific Feis rules. This keeps the focus entirely on footwork and timing. At the Nicholl Irish Dancers, we allow custom solo dresses once the dancer advances into the intermediate and higher grades.
Yes, CRDM enforces age-appropriate appearance rules to protect younger dancers. Generally, makeup and artificial tanning are strictly prohibited for dancers in the youngest age brackets (usually under 10 or 11 years old, depending on the specific feis rules). As dancers move into older age groups and championship levels, subtle makeup and traditional Irish dance wigs are permitted to complement the stage attire, but the organization heavily emphasizes a neat, tidy, and modest presentation.
The best role for a parent at home is “encourager” rather than “coach.” Focus on providing a safe, flat practice space (a small piece of plywood or dance vinyl over carpet helps protect joints). You can help them practice by clapping out rhythms, timing their music, or recording video from a straight-on angle so they can review their own posture and foot placement alongside their teacher’s feedback.
Other Resources
Competition Tips
Check out Irish Dancing tips from the Irish Dance Globe. A great resource for dancers in the competitive dance world.