Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by introducing the kids to a tradition that will also keep them fit. Irish stepdancing, a unique and culturally rich style of dance for those with or without Irish ancestry, features leaps and rapid leg movements that require flexibility and strengthen the inner core. Dances are usually performed solo or in groups of two, four or eight to the lively sounds of traditional Irish music, which is often reminiscent of Celtic folklore, history and a celebration of the seasons.
To get a taste of Irish dancing, watch several local dance groups perform at the North Texas Irish Festival, at this annual event celebrating Irish and Celtic heritage, March 1–3 at Fair Park. Join free dance workshops held throughout the weekend and the ceili, a traditional Irish party, from 7:30–10:30pm on Saturday.
Emerald School of Irish Dance
The Emerald School offers weekly classes at three locations with TCRG certified dance teachers, a certification by the Irish Dancing Commission in Dublin, Ireland. Classes for boys and girls ages 5 and older start at $50 per month, and you can join classes at any time or at the beginning of summer or fall sessions.
Dallas, 972/874-0360
Arlington, 972/874-0360
Lewisville, 972/874-0360
emeraldschool.com
Maguire Academy of Irish Dance
Tour Maguire’s newly refurbished studio in Dallas and get the first lesson for free from TCRG certified instructors. The academy offers weekly classes for boys and girls ages 4 and older starting at $60 per month.
Dallas, 469/855-5435
maguireacademy.com
McTeggart Irish Dancers of North Texas
TCRG certified instructor Christie New offers one-long classes for various levels of dancers each Saturday at Doubletake Dance Studio in Bedford, with advanced classes starting at 10am. Classes are open for boys and girls as young as age 4 at $75 per month.
Bedford, 817-240-9600
mcteggartntx.org
