The World Irish Dance Association (WIDA) is a non-profit organisation devoted to promoting Irish dance around the world. Since its founding in 2004, WIDA has developed a global presence and currently includes over 140 schools in 21 countries – and continues to grow at a fast pace!
To promote Irish dance worldwide, WIDA organises competitions, examinations and workshops and strives to bring Irish dance into the hearts and feet of dance enthusiasts, both with and without prior knowledge of Irish dance.
A defining characteristic of WIDA is its friendly and welcoming culture which can be experienced at any WIDA event. Competition is limited to the dance floor, while off the stage every dancer, parent and teacher becomes part of one big WIDA family with a shared love for Irish dance.
Latest News
British Open 2020 Cancelled
We regret to announce that the British Opens has been cancelled due to the current situation with Covid-19. There will be automatic qualification for the Worlds for dancers who normally would have qualified at this event. We are planning an alternative event - more details to follow!
Wida Announcement
As of May 31st 2020 Elaine Walker will have completed her term in office as Interim President of WIDA and will be stepping down from the role.
She leaves the position with our heartfelt thanks for assuming the presidency in April 2016 at a difficult time and continuing to lead the organisation as a fantastic ambassador for Irish dance and WIDA.
A new structure will be established over the summer months to reflect the changing direction and focus of WIDA as we move forward, and an announcement will be made at the appropriate time as to who will be the president for the immediate future.
We are sure you will all join WIDA in thanking Elaine for her sterling efforts over the past four years and we are sure she will enjoy her freedom from the pressures of being the focus of so many questions and discussions about the rules and personalities of the WIDA family.
Workshops and Competitions During Corona
Unfortunately, due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation some of our events, workshops, and exam sessions are either cancelled or postponed. For the latest updates, please check our official Facebook page or get in touch with our regional representatives.