Step Lively

Do a little research into traditional Irish step-dancing, and the novice will quickly be baffled. Reels, jigs, slip jigs, horn pipes, set dances, ceili dances — there are a multitude of styles, tempos, rules and requirements. But how much do you need to know to enjoy an afternoon of step-dancing? Even complete ignorance of what sets the slip jig apart from the jig won't preclude you from being dazzled by the power, precision and beauty of these ancient dances. St. Louis Irish Arts has been training St. Louis youth in Ireland's cultural arts since 1972, and today at 1:30 p.m. at the Missouri History Museum (Lindell Boulevard and DeBaliviere Avenue; 314-746-4599 or www.mohistory.org), you can enjoy the years of hard work with a free performance of traditional Irish step-dancing. Maybe you'll be inspired to give it a try yourself — check out www.slia.org for information on how you can learn to cut a rug. Or horn the pipe.
Sun., March 18