ABOUT THE STUDIO:

In 1996 Scoil Rince O'Ceallaigh and Scoil Rince Ni Fhearraigh joined forces to introduce The Irish Dance Studio to the York Region area.  The directors, Yvonne Kelly and Joanne Vanderloo, have been involved in Irish dance since their early years of competing and then teaching in their own studios.  Combined, they have been teaching Irish dancing for more than 35 years and have produced Canadian and Mid-West United States champions, as well as North American, All Ireland and World Championship finalists.

As well as competitions, the studio also participates in other activities such as the St. Patrick's Day parade, Skydome & Harbourfront performances, St. Patrick's Day performance at the Air Canada Centre for the Raptor's half-time show, and community events with the Knights of Columbus, both Toronto and Newmarket councils.  Students are also encouraged to participate in volunteer shows for nursing homes, hospices and multi-cultural events.

The Irish Dance Studio, while enjoying success in the competitions, understands that competition is not for everyone.  With this in mind, we have provided a recreational program for the first time dancer.  While the students learn the same dances as the competitive division, this program is an ideal way to introduce students to Irish dance in a relaxed and fun environment.

Boys and Girls can join the studio starting at age 3.  We have year-end performances for the junior and senior divisions.  The juniors perform in 1-hour shows in a relaxed atmosphere, where family and friends can take pictures and videos.  This gives our young students a great chance to get on stage and gain experience performing in front of an audience, without the pressure of a larger, more professional show.  Our three senior performances are held at the Newmarket Theatre, where students learn, hands-on, what is involved in dancing on a more professional level. 

Our ultimate goal is to provide young people with an appreciation for the Irish dancing experience, both musically and technically.   In an encouraging, enjoyable atmosphere, we strive to develop an individual's personal strengths on a student-by-student basis to motivate young dancers to be the best they can be!