Dancing at the crossroads in Carney
The heyday of that old Irish tradition of dancing at the crossroads might have been in the mid-twentieth century, but if anywhere can revive the custom, it is Carney village. On the evening of Saturday, August 15, there are plans to transform the little rural settlement – which is now equipped with a stunning new mural featuring a childhood Shane MacGowan – into a hive of music, dance, food and general merriment. A very special evening of “dancing at the crossroads” has been arranged, and it promises to be a memorable occasion.
Anyone who has ever wandered by Carney will have been struck by the warm and welcoming atmosphere and also by the rustic rural nature of the place. The location lends itself to an event like this.
The free, family-friendly evening will feature a variety of workshops on everything from dancing to playing the tin-whistle.
There will be a selection of rather novel dances, including a cake dance, a freestyle brush dance and a more traditional set dance. There will be no shortage of music either. Local musicians Keelan McGrath, Leah Grealish and friends will be on hand to provide the soundtrack, while there will be an open trad session later in the night.
Described as “a celebration of tradition and community”, the organisers are inviting anyone and everyone to attend, irrespective of whether they are local or not.
Those who play an instrument are encouraged to bring it with them and contribute to the music, while dancers of all abilities and none are also welcome. Of course, there will also be plenty of good food, interesting conversation and warm company – as there always is in Carney.
Starting at 5pm and extending well into the night, local organisers are anticipating a sizable and vibrant crowd.
The idea for the event was conceived some time ago and organisers are delighted to finally be bringing it to fruition.
It is a fabulously creative endeavour which both enhances the area’s reputation and revives a once-popular pastime that was once a regular occurrence in rural Ireland.