Irish Dance Tradition Spreads to Southern France with New Cultural Club
A Galway native launches Castres Ceili Club in southern France, bringing authentic Irish dance traditions to the local community through monthly gatherings and live music sessions.
Irish dance instructor leads traditional ceili dance session at The Quay Irish pub in Castres, France
Galway Native Brings Celtic Heritage to Castres Through Traditional Dance
In a vibrant celebration of Irish cultural heritage, Aoibheann Donnellan, a Galway native, has established the Castres Ceili Club in southern France, creating a bridge between Celtic and French cultures through traditional dance.
The initiative, launched in September, aims to introduce authentic Irish ceili dancing to the local community, demonstrating how Irish cultural exports continue to captivate international audiences.
Traditional Dance Meets Modern Community Building
"I created the Castres Ceili Club to share my passion for traditional Irish dance and music, bringing a piece of my Irish heritage to my adopted home," explains Donnellan, who has partnered with experienced instructor Pat Pallu from Tarbes.
The objective is to transmit culture, music, and traditional dance while creating a festive, friendly, and family atmosphere for everyone.
Monthly Gatherings at The Quay Irish Pub
- Ceili dances (ballroom style)
- Set dancing (quadrille formations)
- Live Irish music sessions
- No experience required
The initiative mirrors the success of other Irish cultural events across Europe, showcasing the enduring appeal of Celtic traditions beyond Ireland's shores.
Upcoming Events
Monthly sessions are scheduled for October 25, November 29, and December 13, with a discovery price of €10 per person. The events run from 3 PM to 9 PM at The Quay Irish pub, featuring both dance instruction and live music sessions.
Van Morrison
Irish journalist exploring the intersections of politics, culture, and identity across Ireland and the wider Celtic world.