The Worlds from the Teacher's point-of-view
With the World Championships wrapping up in Belfast and most of our dancers back home, Culkin School TCRG Nicki Elliott has taken the time to write a brief journal of her trip.
Read about the Culkin School's Worlds experience after the jump....
April 9, 2006
It's Sunday morning and I met Cierra and her dad at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast. We met two hours before Cierra's competition started so that I could get her wig and makeup on. I was nervous--I wanted Cierra to look perfect! Thanks to Cierra's mom for "training" me. I can finally relate to what the Mom's have to go through before each Feis -- now you can come to me for help!
Tuesday, April 10
This morning is Kelly's turn to dance! I met Kelly and her family early in order to help with her wig and makeup... really, I'm turning into a pro! Kelly had 138 dancers in her competition -- we had some time to wait for her rotation so we took our time getting ready and warming up. We managed to have some fun (with Phillip's mom) between dances, too.
Wednesday, April 11
This morning is Phil's day to compete. It is a much different atmosphere than the past few days. The boys take no time at all to get ready -- they have it made! Phil looked great in his new teal shirt and tie. We managed to watch all 3 rounds of this competition -- it was by far some of the best dancing we've ever seen!
Outside the Dance Hall... and a few days off!
Belfast is an amazing city. Years ago photography was restricted because of the political issues and problems that are now in the past. I couldn't believe how much the city has changed and continues to change. The military barracks are being torn down and new businesses are being built. The people of Belfast couldn't have been more welcoming of the Irish Dancers invading their city. They advertised the championship all over the city.
After spending a full four days literally from morning until night watching absolutely amazing dancing, I was kidnapped by the Culkin clan. We were lucky enough to have a visit from Sarah J! Sarah and her Dad made it up to Belfast to support the Culkin dancers. We first went to the Giant's Causeway -- with one quick diversion to Bush Mills in order to purchase some bottles of whiskey to bring back for my Dad and Mr. Stacy! We then stopped Dunluce Castle, which was beautiful. We couldn't have gotten more lucky with the weather. Look how blue the skies are.
During the week, we heard that Sean had traveled to Ireland with his parents as sadly, one of his Aunts had passed away. Sean stayed in Ireland for about a week in order to visit his family. During our trip to Westport, we realized that we'd be passing right through Sligo town, which is only a few miles away from Easky, where Sean was staying. We gave him a "ring" and met up at the Beach Bar in Aughris. We had a quick pint with Sean and his family. The dancers were excited to see him and tell him all about Belfast and their dancing. We were sorry he wasn't with us in Belfast.
On our way to the Beach Bar, we saw one of the prettiest rainbows ever! You can see Benbulben Mountain in the background.
Our goal was to make it to Clare Island -- and we did it! We really did get lucky with the weather once again! If it is too windy or a heavy storm hits, no ferries are permitted to cross over from the mainland. We took our chances and took the ferry from Roonagh -- we were all a bit green in the face -- the water was incredibly rough. After visiting here, I can understand why the Sawdoctors sing about this enchanting island. We met a man who knew the Sawdoctors personally and he took the time to point out the house in which they recorded a recent CD. Here are some gorgeous pics of the island, including the Sawdoctors' house!
"Will you meet me on Clare Island
Summer stars are in the sky
We'll get the ferry out from Roonagh
And wave all our cares goodbye"
by: THE SAWDOCTORS
Saturday, April 16... Back to Belfast
After my little break, I traveled via bus back to Belfast. Kate and her husband Tim had arrived for her competition. We held an evening practice the night before and took a minute to check out the stage Kate would be dancing on. It is important for all dancers to map out their "plan" in their heads.
The next morning we met at the hall for the last day's events. Kate was in the last solo competition of the week, so things were winding down. Her group was quite large and very competitive—nearly 100 dancers!!
I want to say congratulations and thank you to Cierra, Kelly, Phil and Kate for representing the Culkin School with such grace. Each and everyone one of them danced their absolute best and looked incredible on stage. I couldn't have been prouder to be in Belfast with them. My goal for everyone was to learn something and to see what kind of dancing is being done. I feel that everyone took something away from this amazing opportunity, which will help them and their teammates in the future!
