Jean Butler's Irish Dance Masterclass (DVD, 2005)

Even though it states "Masterclass" in the title, this DVD can be used by anyone. I have never had ANY training for this type of dance but Jean's instructions are explained and shown very well in the video glossary. It does get harder as the DVD goes on. But this is done so that the DVD grows with you as you get better with practice. There are so many features that not only are interesting to watch but enable you piece them together to get the perfect routine/practice for you not only by the level you start at, but also by the level you eventually will become. Fantastic DVD!

We bought this for our 16 year old daughter. She would like to take Irish dancing and we wanted to make sure this is really what she wanted before we invested in classes, shoes, etc... She loves the video and watches it daily. It is simple enough for the beginner but also challenging as one advances. I really like the warm up at the beginning of the tape. It is also very informative. Jean Butler does an outstanding job in this DVD and she is an excellent role model for young people. We are very pleased with this DVD and would recommend it. I wish I would have bought this DVD years ago.

This DVD is absolutely packed with enough practice to keep one busy for years. We especially appreciate the step by step demonstration of each movement in the glossary. Each practice set starts with a very easy to do and fun warmup and streches. There are so many sections to practice each step, we have only gotten through the first five or so, and have plenty to practice with that. My kids are having a great time learning with this DVD, it is the best for exercise, since they have fun with something so good for coordination. It does not require very much space. You can even practice these steps in sock feet, on a carpet. I highly recommend this DVD, and also would recommend getting the "RIVERDANCE THE SHOW" movie to go along with it, for inspiration just how neat this can be!

I am not a trained dancer and thought I could pick up a few steps watching the Irish Dance Masterclass. For a non-trained dancer, I thought it was a bit too complicated. For a trained dancer, it's probably do-able. I didn't like the free-style dance she performed, but I did enjoy watching Jean and her associates dance as a group.

This is a fast, fun workout designed for the more experienced Irish Dancer. The Masterclass progresses from toe and balance work to more advanced tip and fast treble work. If you can keep up with it (and it took me quite a few tries to be able to!) its great exercise and lots of fun.