🍀 BGO x Jig & a Swig: St Patrick’s Irish Dance Taster

Ready to channel your inner Riverdance icon… without the pressure, the perfectionism, or the terrifying toe shoes? 😅

Join Big Gay Out and Jig & a Swig for a 90-minute Irish dancing taster session built specifically for absolute beginners. This is a relaxed, supportive space where we’ll learn the fundamental footwork, build confidence step-by-step, and finish with some iconic choreography inspired by Riverdance and Lord of the Dance. ⚡🕺

Whether you’ve got two left feet, zero rhythm, or you’re already suspiciously good at a heel-toe moment, you’re welcome here. Come for the movement, stay for the craic and the community vibes. 🌈✨

👟 What to expect

• Beginner-friendly intro to traditional Irish step dancing basics
• Easy-to-follow progressions (no pressure, no judgement)
• A fun finish learning a routine with big St Paddy energy 🍻
• Plenty of chances to laugh, sweat, and meet new people

🎓 Your instructor

Led by Joshua Ruddock, a former World Champion solo Irish dancer, guiding you through the steps in a low-pressure, supportive way.

🤝 Hosted in partnership

• Big Gay Out (BGO): a vibrant London community for gay, bi, trans, and queer men to connect through shared experiences. Allies very welcome 🫶
• Jig & a Swig: London’s largest adult Irish dance community, founded by former Riverdance cast member Jessie Leach, bringing movement + community + maximum craic 🇮🇪🔥

📍 Essentials

• Level: Absolute Beginner
• Wear: Flat shoes (trainers are perfect) + comfy clothes you can move/sweat in 👟
• Location: Living Space, a short walk from Waterloo station 🚶‍♂️
• Refunds: Taster sessions are non-refundable

Come learn the basics, get your heart rate up, and leave with a routine you can absolutely whip out at St Patrick’s celebrations (whether anyone asked or not). 🍀💚

❓ FAQs (10)

1. Do I need any dance experience?
   Nope. This is absolute beginner level, built for people starting from zero.
2. What should I wear?
   Comfortable clothes you can move in (and sweat in) + flat shoes. Trainers are ideal 👟
3. Do I need special Irish dance shoes?
   No. Please don’t. Trainers are perfect for this taster session.
4. How long is the session?
   90 minutes of learning, moving, and unleashing your inner legend 🕺
5. Where is it happening?
   At Living Space, a short walk from Waterloo station.
6. Will we actually learn a routine?
   Yes! We’ll cover the basics, then finish with iconic choreography inspired by Riverdance/Lord of the Dance ⚡
7. Who is the instructor?
   Joshua Ruddock, a former World Champion solo Irish dancer (so yes, you’re in safe feet).
8. Is this a BGO-only event?
   It’s hosted with BGO, and allies are very welcome 🌈🫶
9. Is it intense? I’m not super fit.
   It’s high-energy, but paced for beginners. Take breaks whenever you need, no pressure.
10. Can I get a refund if I can’t make it?
    Please note: taster sessions are non-refundable.