COMPETITION (FEIS) GUIDE
At Milwaukee Irish Dance, competing is completely optional. We support every dancer's individual goals and will help families decide if competition is the right fit.
What is a feis?
A feis (pronounced "fesh") is the Irish word for festival. While feiseanna (the plural of feis) traditionally celebrated Irish culture through music, dance, language, and art, today the term is most commonly used to describe an Irish dance competition.
At a feis, dancers perform individually in front of certified judges (ADCRG), who provide written feedback and award placements based on each dancer's performance. Competitions are held year-round, giving dancers opportunities to challenge themselves, track their progress, and celebrate their hard work.
Whether it's a dancer's very first feis or they're competing at the championship level, every competition is an opportunity to learn, grow, and have fun.
Why compete?
Competition is a great way for dancers to set goals, build confidence, and celebrate their progress. While competing is not required at Milwaukee Irish Dance, many dancers enjoy the challenge of improving their skills, receiving feedback from certified judges, and the opportunity to travel and participate in local, national, and international competitions.
When to start competing?
Every dancer’s competition journey is different. When you are interested in competing, talk with your teacher or our Competition Coordinator, Cara, at cara@milwaukeeirishdance.com. We will help guide you through the process and determine the right time to begin based on your skills, goals, and readiness.
How do I register for a feis?
Feis registrations are completed online by each dancer or family. Most competitions in our region (Mid-America) use registration platforms such as QuickFeis.com or FeisWorx.com, although some competitions may use other registration websites.
If you are unsure which feis to attend or need help with the registration process, reach out to your teacher or our Competition Coordinator, Cara, at cara@milwaukeeirishdance.com.
What should I wear?
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What happens when I get there?
Dancers check in, warm up, and compete two or three at a time alongside dancers from other schools. Competitions are organized by age and level.
Closer to the competition date, a stage schedule will be available with competition times and stage assignments. Dancers and families can use this schedule to know when and where they will compete. Your teacher and Competition Coordinator, Cara, are here to help guide you through the process and answer any questions along the way.
When you compete, you are representing Milwaukee Irish Dance. We expect our dancers to treat everyone with kindness and respect.
Results are only one small part of the competitive experience. The friendships you make, the memories you create, and the way you carry yourself are far more important than any placement!
Be someone others enjoy competing with.
