University of Limerick’s
Irish World Academy
For those who envision going “pro” in the Trad Irish music or Irish Dance world, the University of Limerick offers a noteworthy Bachelor of Arts degree that has produced numerous success stories over the years.
Recognizing the need to educate students in the art of Irish Music and/or Dance along with essential business skills, the BA program at the University of Limerick is a unique degree for those interested in the arts. The four-year bachelor’s degree is designed to provide dancers and musicians the skills to succeed from an accredited and respected university in the heart of Ireland.
According to the school's website: With nearly 12,000 students, including more than 2,000 international students each year, the University of Limerick is a young and enterprising university with a proud record of innovation in education and scholarship.
A survey of Irish students recently voted UL Ireland’s most popular university with a satisfaction rating of 85%. Limerick City is set at the origin of the Shannon, Ireland’s longest river. The city has an updated waterfront and vibrant business district.
The University of Limerick’s Irish World Academy program is unlike any other. World Champion, Zoe Griffin graduated from the program in 2017.
“I was very fortunate to have been able to work with well-known choreographers such as Francis Ward, Michael Ryan and Ciara Sexton and also be given opportunities such as dancing with the Chieftains and performing at Michael Flatley’s honorary doctorate ceremony."
Zoe pictured at the 2017 World Irish Dancing Championships
Today, Zoe is pursuing her teaching certification and assisting dancers at the Scoil Uí Ruairc in the Munster region along with working as a certified Personal Trainer.
“Interviewers always ask about my degree and they are so interested in it. Having an Arts’ Degree opens so many doors and because of my degree I was offered the job I am in now.”
Michael Donnellan, a World Champion dancer and former lead of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, earned a Masters’ degree in Dance performance from the University of Limerick.
The traini
ng from the Irish World Academy along with his extensive dance show and choreography experience has propelled him to success in the highly competitive world of professional shows. He is currently at the helm of his dance show Danceperados of Ireland.
It is noteworthy that Donnellan has achieved what few others in the industry have been able to accomplish; a show that has successfully “made it” internationally.
With his show touring for the past six years, Donnellan has proven his ability as a master of showmanship and production. On October 18th Danceperados of Ireland is celebrating its 1000th show at the prestigious glór Theatre in Ennis, County Clare.
The number of successful students from this unique program is truly remarkable. For those seeking training in the heart of Ireland along with learning from the best in the business at a prestigious University, check out the University of Limerick’s Irish World Academy at www.irishworldacademy.ie.
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