DANCES ADD IRISH FLAIR TO AREA SCHOOL

JACKSON, Mo. -- The popping sounds of fiberglass-toed shoes and the stiff-statured form that jigged across the South Elementary School cafeteria floor Tuesday indicated St. Patrick's Day is near.

Southeast Missouri State University student observer Sara Fitzpatrick performed traditional Irish dances and answered questions about the Irish culture to complete the students' study of Ireland.

Fitzpatrick's father was born in Ireland and immigrated to the United States.

During her performance, Fitzpatrick wore a traditional Irish costume and performed an Irish reel, treble reel and traditional Irish jig. The Irish reel, which Fitzpatrick performed first, was done in a slipper-like shoe, and students focused on her leaps and quick movements.

However, after she switched into a clog-like shoe that sported fiberglass toes and heels "to give the dance more sound," students' expressions changed from mild to keen interest.

While they noticed her upward-turned eyes, stiff form and arms held close to her torso, it was Fitzpatrick's feet that held their attention.

"That's what you're supposed to notice," she told students between performances. "If I were to put my head down or move my arms in competition, I would lose points because it would take attention away from my feet."

Fitzpatrick, 20, has performed traditional Irish dances as part of St. Patrick's Day celebrations since she was 5. Her performances have included competitions across the nation and in the World Championships of Ireland.

Although she doesn't dance competitively any longer, she said annual parades and family get-togethers help her to keep her form.

"My sisters and I have always done this, and it's so much fun, especially on St. Patrick's Day," she said. "We dance all day."

Samantha Lunsford, 11, was among those who attempted the jig at the end of Fitzpatrick's performance. She proclaimed the dance "easier than I thought" and said she might try it after her family's holiday dinner this year.