Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about joining the McGinley School of Irish Dance? Whether you have a two-year-old who loves to move, a child interested in performing or competing, or you have always wanted to try Irish dancing yourself, we would love to welcome you! Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often from new dancers and families.

Who can join?

Almost anyone! We offer Irish dance classes for children beginning at age 2, as well as classes for teens and adults. No previous dance experience is necessary to get started.

Whether your goal is to dance recreationally, perform, compete, make new friends, or simply try something new, there is a place for you at McGinley.

When does the dance year start and end?

Our regular dance year begins the first full week after Labor Day and continues through Memorial Day.

During the summer months, we offer optional pop-in classes for dancers currently enrolled in our program. These classes are offered on a pay-as-you-go basis.

New dancers do not have to wait until September to begin! We offer continuous enrollment throughout the dance year, as space permits, so you or your child may join at almost any time.

What does my dancer need for the first class?

Keep it simple! There is no need to purchase special Irish dance attire or shoes before your first class.

Children should wear comfortable clothing that allows them to move easily, such as shorts and a T-shirt. Girls may begin in black ballet slippers, while boys may wear jazz shoes. We ask that dancers bring a water bottle to class.

Adult dancers may wear comfortable workout clothing with light sneakers or dance sneakers when beginning.

Once your enrollment is complete, we will send you more detailed information about class attire, shoes, and everything you need to get started.

Does my dancer need a costume when starting?

No. There is no need to purchase a costume when you first enroll.

Once a dancer is ready to participate in performances, parades, or competitions, we will provide information about our school costume requirements. School costumes are rented through McGinley, which helps families avoid the expense of purchasing a costume that a growing dancer may quickly outgrow.

Female dancers will also need designated accessories, including poodle socks and a long-sleeved black bodysuit. Male dancers will need designated black attire. Adult dancers participating in performances will receive information about their costume requirements as well.

Detailed and current costume information, including rental fees and requirements, is provided to enrolled families in our annual McGinley School of Irish Dance Parent Handbook.

What about Irish dance shoes?

You do not need to purchase Irish dance shoes before starting—and we actually prefer that you don't!

New dancers can begin in inexpensive ballet slippers or other approved beginner footwear. We like our dancers to learn some basic technique and “earn” their first pair of Irish dance shoes.

When the time comes, we will guide you through the process, recommend the appropriate shoes, and help ensure your dancer has the proper fit.

Does my child have to perform?

No. Performances are optional.

Throughout the year, McGinley dancers have opportunities to perform at festivals, community events, parades, celebrations, and other special events. Performance opportunities are shared with eligible families, who may choose which events work best for them.

We encourage dancers to participate because performing is a fun and rewarding part of Irish dance, but families can be as involved as they choose.

Does my child have to compete?

No. Competition is optional.

We encourage dancers to try a feis (Irish dance competition) when they are ready, but the decision to compete belongs to each dancer and family.

Our goal is to make competition a positive, encouraging, and age-appropriate experience. Feiseanna give dancers an opportunity to set goals, build confidence, meet other dancers, and see the progress they have made through their training.

Competition opportunities are available for children, teens, and adults at appropriate levels.

Can parents stay and watch class?

To provide dancers with a focused learning environment, only dancers attending class and McGinley instructors are permitted inside the studio during regular classes.

Dancers are welcomed at the door by an instructor and may enter the building five minutes before their scheduled class time. At the conclusion of class, dancers are dismissed directly to their parent or guardian in the parking lot.

We provide enrolled families with detailed information about our arrival, dismissal, and parking procedures before classes begin.

What if my child has never danced before?

That's perfectly fine! Most of our beginners start with no Irish dance experience at all.

Our beginner program is designed to introduce dancers to Irish dance technique gradually while developing rhythm, coordination, confidence, and a love of dancing.

There is no need to “prepare” before joining us. We will teach your dancer everything they need to know.

Can my child try Irish dance before committing?

Please contact us about current opportunities for new dancers. Depending on the time of year and class availability, we can help determine the best way for your child to experience a McGinley class and see if Irish dance is a good fit.

How do I sign up?

Getting started is easy!

Visit our Enrollment page and complete the registration form. A $30 annual registration fee is also required.

Once we receive your registration form and fee, we will contact you with your dancer's class information along with any additional forms, waivers, and important details you'll need before getting started.

Then comes the fun part—it's time to dance!

We look forward to welcoming you to the McGinley School of Irish Dance!