Do I have to be Irish to take Irish dance lessons?

Anyone can Irish dance and we are an all-inclusive dance academy! The Irish Dancing community has expanded throughout the world into places such as Japan, Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, and throughout most of Eastern Europe as well as Russia. There are professional Irish dance companies that tour all over the world, such as Riverdance, Heartbeat of Home, and Lord of the Dance, which help to expand interest in Irish dance and music.

How old does my child need to be to begin classes?

Children can start as young as 3 and we offer a Tiny Tots class specifically for 3-4 year olds. It is a half hour class, which takes place once a week. Children are introduced to Irish dance music, rhythm, stretching, jumping, and the coordination required to learn the basics of Irish dance.

For children 5+ they start in Beginner where they learn much the same that the tiny tots do, but at a quicker pace along with the basic steps and dances required for entering their first competition.

Where and when can I register?

Our dance season runs from September through to June with additional summer classes and camps available throughout July and August. Registration for the 2020-2021 dance year is now available. Please contact us to register!

What is the class schedule?

Classes at McGough run Monday through Thursday, coupled with private lessons/bootcamps on Fridays and Saturdays, and the occasional Sunday FunDay!

What does my child need to wear/bring to class?

Tiny Tots are required to wear a t-shirt, black shorts, white socks (fold over preferable to anklets) and hair tied back if long enough to do so. For shoes, Tiny Tots do not need to purchase Irish Dance Soft Shoes, instead they are permitted to wear snug black ballet slippers.

Beginners are required to purchase a McGough T-Shirt, and wear black shorts, white socks (fold over preferable to anklets), and have hair tied back if long enough to do so. At this level, dancers must wear proper Irish Dance Soft shoes which can be purchased second hand or from local Irish dance supplier Fays Shoes. We will let you know when your child requires Heavy Shoes, which are also available new or second hand. ​

Please note: One water-bottle per child is permitted in the studio for all class levels.

How much is tuition?

We have a yearly family registration fee of $50. For yearly tuition pricing, please contact us as pricing is based on dancer level.

What is a FEIS?

A feis (pronounced feh-sh) or feiseanna (pural), is an Irish term meaning traditional Gaelic arts & culture festival and is commonly used for referring to Irish Dance competitions.

Will my child compete?

We offer two tracks at the McGough Academy: recreational and competitive. However, many competitive dancers enjoy the recreational classes and show opportunities, coupled with the wonderful school camaraderie we have developed throughout the past decade. At the McGough Academy, we help you design your track to where you want to go. There is no “one size fits all” and everything is customizable.

Will my child have the opportunity to perform?

Yes. Even within the first year of dance, all dancers have the opportunity to take part in our McGough Christmas Performance held each year in December. They will also get the opportunity to perform at dance outings for nursing homes, Saint Patrick’s Day events & parades, and end of the year recital. We have found that participating in shows is an excellent opportunity to build confidence and create a sense of community.

Can I observe classes?

We do not have parents observe classes as it distracts the dancers and their classmates. It is important for the dancer’s attention to be kept on the dance teacher and the task at hand. Most importantly, we are strictly following CDC guidelines for Covid-19 and minimize person to person contact in the studio. Therefore, we have a strict drop off/pick up policy for parents. But do not worry, parents & family members will get opportunities throughout the year to see their dancer perform whether on stage at a competition or at an outing/performance.