INTRODUCING THE 2024 RECIPIENTS OF THE GLOBAL IRISH DANCING TEACHER AWARDS

Supported by our sponsors—Set the Stage with Butke Awards, Feisty Fitzy, Harlequin Floors USA, and CIE TOURS —these awards celebrate the lasting impact these teachers have on their dancers and the broader Irish Dance community.

Honoring a Legacy of Impact

Irish Dance teachers do more than teach—they mentor, inspire, and create a sense of belonging for their dancers. Great teachers push dancers to achieve their best while fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels supported and encouraged. They serve not only as instructors but also as role models, shaping the lives of their dancers both on and off the floor.

Dance offers profound benefits for people of all ages. Studies show that dance improves physical fitness, coordination, and flexibility while also enhancing cognitive function, memory, and focus. For children, dance fosters social skills, teamwork, and creative expression, while adults benefit from stress reduction, emotional well-being, and a sense of accomplishment. The discipline of Irish Dance, with its intricate footwork and demand for precision, encourages perseverance, confidence, and resilience—qualities that dancers carry into every aspect of their lives.

This year’s honorees exemplify the transformative power of Irish Dance education. Whether mentoring competitive champions or nurturing students who dance for personal growth and cultural connection, these teachers bring out the best in their dancers.   

Global Excellence in Teaching Award Recipients 2024

1. Rita O’Shea (O’Shea-Chaplin Academy, Boston, USA)

Celebrating an extraordinary 70 years of teaching, Rita O’Shea is a cornerstone of Boston’s Irish Dance community. A Galway native, Rita founded the O’Shea-Chaplin Academy in 1954 and has trained thousands of dancers, including over 30 certified teachers and adjudicators.

“Rita taught me to believe in myself,” shares Aidan Hurff, a World Champion. “Her support on and off the floor has shaped not just my dancing career but my life.”

Beyond competitions, Rita’s dancers frequently perform at cultural festivals and charity events, bringing Irish traditions to the broader community. At 87 years old, Rita continues to inspire through her passion and dedication to her dancers.

2. Anne Kidd (Kidd School of Irish Dance, England)

Anne Kidd has spent over 60 years fostering Irish Dance in the Midlands. Known for her dedication and energy, Anne continues teaching weekly at 80 years old, inspiring dancers of all ages.

“Anne is always there, teaching or even demonstrating steps herself, which is incredible at her age,” says student Alannah Kinsella. “She’s created a place we can all call home.”

Anne’s dancers have achieved competitive success and performed at events like the St. Patrick’s Day parade. Her senior team was recently featured on Irish Dancing Magazine’s April 2024 cover, highlighting her legacy and influence.

3. Gerard Carroll (Carroll School, Tyrone & Armagh, Ireland)

Gerard Carroll’s teaching phlilosophy goes beyond technique, emphasizing mental health and camaraderie among his dancers. Based in Tyrone and Armagh, Gerard integrates mindfulness practices into his lessons, ensuring that dancers develop resilience alongside their skills.

“Gerard has created a space where we feel supported in every way,” says dancer Aine McGrath. “He doesn’t just teach us how to dance; he teaches us how to face challenges with strength.”

Gerard’s dancers have earned top placements in competitions, but his focus remains on building a strong, inclusive community where everyone feels they belong. His holistic approach to Irish Dance sets his school apart.

4. Sean Beglan (Beglan Academy, Wisconsin, USA)

Sean Beglan, a former Riverdance lead, brings world-class performance experience to his teaching at the Beglan Academy. His academy is known for fostering an inclusive and vibrant environment where all dancers, including an extraordinary 20 boys, thrive.

Sean’s dancers excel in technical precision and artistry, with many earning top accolades at regional and national competitions. His ability to inspire confidence and passion in his students ensures they not only succeed on stage but also grow as individuals. Sean’s leadership and dedication have made his academy a cornerstone of the Wisconsin Irish Dance community.

5. Emma Bonner (Emma Bonner Academy, Derry, Northern Ireland): Emma focuses on accessibility and inclusivity, offering free toddler classes and a dancewear recycling program. Her dancers frequently perform at community events, bringing the joy of Irish Dance to diverse audiences. Emma’s efforts ensure that children from all backgrounds can enjoy the art of Irish Dance.

6. Serena Conlon (Cairdeas Academy, England): Serena champions adult Irish Dance, creating an inclusive and supportive environment for dancers aged 16 to 70. Her innovative teaching style has revitalized interest in Irish Dance for adults seeking joy and connection through movement. Cairdeas Academy is known for its welcoming spirit and dedication to lifelong learning.

7. Dympna Devoy (DeVoy Academy, Canada): Known for her inclusive and family-oriented approach, Dympna creates a supportive space where dancers of all ages and abilities can thrive. Her academy emphasizes the importance of cultural connection and community spirit. Dympna’s dedication has made Irish Dance accessible and meaningful for her students.

8. Rachel Franzen (Irish Dance Arabia, Qatar): Rachel bridges cultures by introducing Irish Dance to new audiences in the Middle East. Her academy fosters global connections while celebrating the art form’s rich traditions. Rachel’s innovative approach has brought Irish Dance to a diverse and enthusiastic community.

9. Cara Justice (Jackie Flynn Academy, USA): Known for her advocacy and inclusivity, Cara inspires dancers of all ages and abilities. Her academy provides a supportive environment for dancers to grow in confidence and skill. Cara’s commitment to creating a welcoming space has made her an integral part of her dance community.

10. Caitlin Kelly (Kelly Academy, USA): Caitlin’s academy is a hub of activity, with over 65 performances annually, bridging tradition and community outreach. Her dancers develop confidence and poise both on stage and in everyday life. Caitlin’s dedication ensures her students embrace Irish Dance as a lifelong passion.

11. Tanya Cunningham (Cunningham Academy, Austria & Bulgaria): Tanya has expanded Irish Dance into new regions, creating vibrant communities of dancers in Austria and Bulgaria. Her dedication ensures dancers from all backgrounds can experience the joy and discipline of Irish Dance. Tanya’s work highlights the universal appeal of Irish culture.

12. Billy Petrocelli (Petrocelli Academy, USA): Known for his boundless enthusiasm, Billy has created a vibrant and dynamic community of Irish dancers. His dancers regularly perform at cultural festivals, sharing the beauty of Irish traditions with local audiences. Billy’s approach emphasizes joy, connection, and excellence in Irish Dance.

13. Miriam Lee (Lee-Byrne Academy, Dublin, Ireland): A World Champion and former Riverdance dance captain, Miriam brings competitive expertise and artistic vision to her academy. Her dancers achieve top honors at prestigious competitions and performances. Miriam’s dedication inspires excellence both in and out of the studio.

14. Tara Kennedy (Scoil Rince Tara Kennedy, Ireland): Tara combines competitive excellence with a focus on teaching life skills such as resilience and teamwork. Her dancers thrive in an environment where self-belief and camaraderie are core values. Tara’s influence extends beyond the studio, leaving a positive mark on her community.

15. Alisa Dosch (Clan Rince School, USA): Alisa’s teaching balances technical growth with personal development, encouraging dancers to reach their full potential. Her academy promotes a love of Irish Dance while fostering discipline and creativity. Alisa’s efforts ensure her dancers leave with lifelong skills and a deep appreciation for the art form.

16. Alyssa Harling (Harling School, Chicago, USA): Alyssa combines creativity and discipline in her teaching, inspiring her dancers to excel on stage and in life. Her school is a cornerstone of Chicago’s Irish Dance community, frequently performing at local events. Alyssa’s efforts ensure that Irish Dance remains vibrant and celebrated in her city.

17. Veronica Lilja (O’Hare School, USA): Veronica fosters teamwork and technical skill while emphasizing personal growth and inclusivity. Her academy provides a welcoming environment where dancers of all abilities can flourish. Veronica’s teaching style inspires confidence and joy in her students.

18. Mary Moran-Mooney (Nashville Irish Step Dancers, USA): With over 30 years of teaching, Mary has brought Irish Dance to stages like the Grand Ole Opry. Her dedication to cultural preservation and her nurturing teaching style have created a lasting legacy in Tennessee. Mary’s dancers excel in both performance and building strong community connections.

19. Olivia Murray (Murray Dance Academy, Armagh, Ireland): A World Champion, Olivia inspires her dancers with joy and determination, instilling resilience and hard work in her academy. She emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring every dancer feels supported while pursuing their goals. Olivia’s leadership leaves a profound impact on the Irish Dance community in Armagh.

20. Kerri Smith (Lenahan-Smith Academy, USA): Combining technical expertise with compassion, Kerri fosters growth and confidence in her dancers. Her academy provides a nurturing space where dancers thrive competitively and personally. Kerri’s students consistently shine on stage while building self-belief and teamwork skills.

21. Janice Young (Young Academy, Montreal, Canada): Janice creates a family-like atmosphere at her academy, prioritizing mental well-being alongside technical achievements. Her dancers grow into confident individuals who succeed both on stage and in life. Janice’s inclusive and supportive teaching style makes her a beloved mentor in Montreal.

Read More About These Teachers

Explore the full stories of these inspiring educators in the Mid-December/January issue of Irish Dancing Magazine.

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