Think Pulse is the only group of dancers on campus? Think again! Shannon Curtin ’19, Cameron Lambert ’19, and Jasmine Lee ’18 are competitive Irish dancers with a lot of passion for their form of art. The dance style has it’s roots in a traditional Irish practice and is characterized by a stiff upper body and precise leg movements. Hard shoes, which make sound, and soft shoes, which do not, are both used in the modern-day sport.

Lambert, who dances at Comerford School of Irish Dance and has placed fourth in world Irish dancing competitions, says, “I like that it combines a sport and art together…There’s a lot of hard work that goes into it.” Curtin shared that she really loves releasing negative energy through dance. Though some may enjoy the performing aspect of the sport, she prefers being surrounded by friends while rehearsing in the dance studio. She and Lee dance at Tara Academy of Irish Dance at the open championship level. Lee has stayed with the sport through various fractures, twists, and sprains because of the amazing community she has experienced.

“My feet are dying, but I still love it,” she says playfully. Though injuries are common due to all the jumping and high-impact aspects, these three Irish dancers have a lot of love and respect for their passion.