Director Ruán Magan
Rated G
Score 5/6
Steps of Freedom explores the extraordinary story of how Irish dance evolved and how it became a global phenomenon. Relying on historical records, scholars, practitioners and musicians to trace the history and development of Irish dance.
Perhaps, just perhaps I should have at least watched a trailer for Steps of Freedom before I actually watched it. But somehow I think having an inkling of the depths that the filmmakers were going to go might have spoiled the movie watching experience for me somehow. I was actually a little surprised by the depth of history of Irish Dancing and how it is possible for modern dancers to trace the history of their dance all the way back to the 1700’s through their teachers. Perhaps it’s because I watch too many movies but when the Dance hall act was discussed I found myself reminded of Herbert Ross’ 1984 movie Footloose. There are reasons why you should see certain movies on a cinema screen, now I know that might not be possible for everybody with Steps of Freedom but I loved the impact of the footage when the film discussed Irish Dancing in prison. What I found to be particularly interesting was the discussion of the cultural connection between Ireland, Spain and Africa. It was also interesting to see how that connection between Africa and Ireland deepend in the United States of America. It was fascinating hearing about the connection Irish dancers at the time had with the Minstrel shows, I also liked hearing about the challenge dances and the account of the competition between William Henry Lang and John Diamond that was staged by PT Barnum in 1843.
