The 44th World Irish Dancing Championships is currently being held in London. More than 5,000 hopefuls are expected to battle it out during the eight-day event.
The "Olympics" of Irish dancing runs from 13 to 20 April. Getty Images' photographer Dan Kitwood captured the atmosphere during the first few days of competition.
Dan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesA competitor has her foot massaged by her father before performingDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty ImagesDan Kitwood/Getty Images
