Frequently Asked Questions

Who can join?

Anyone. We offer classes for children as young as 2 years of age and adult classes for dancers well into their adult lives.

When does the dance year start and end?

Our regular dance year starts the first full week after Labor Day and ends on Memorial Day. During the summer months, we offer pop-in classes to dancers currently enrolled in our program. These are a pay as you go option. We offer continuous enrollment throughout the year, so you or your child can join at anytime.

What is needed for the first class?

Children should wear moveable and appropriate work out gear; i.e. shorts and a t-shirt. Ballet slippers (girls) or jazz shoes (boys) are acceptable before Irish Dance shoes are purchased. Dancers should bring a bottle of water to class. Adult dancers may opt to wear light sneakers or dance sneakers to class. More detailed information will be emailed to you once your enrollment information has been received.

Do dancers need a costume when they start?

You do not need to worry about a costume up front. When the time comes, you will rent a school costume so that your child can participate in our public performances, parades, and competitions. The upfront cost for our female beginner costumes range in cost from approximately $90 to $150. When your child outgrows the costume, you will return it to the studio. Girls will also need to purchase poodle socks and a long-sleeved black bodysuit. Boys will need black pants and a black dress shirt. Adult ladies costumes are approximately $150 and adult ladies will need to purchase black tights.  The costs listed above are a rental fee.  When the costume is returned your receive a large portion of the payment back.  Once enrolled, please refer to the MSID handbook, that is printed annually, for specific information.

What about the shoes?

You do not need to worry about purchasing Irish Dance shoes when you start. We actually prefer that you do not as they are more costly than ballet slippers and we like our dancers to “earn” their first pair of shoes. When the time is right, we will help you pick out the best shoe for your child and ensure that the fit is correct.

Will my child need to participate in performances?

All of our performances are optional and sign-up sheets are circulated. We encourage our dance families to get as involved as they want to. We may also put on a stage show during the school year. All dancers are invited to participate in this event but again, this is optional.

Does my child have to compete?

No. Again, you decide what is best for you and your family. We encourage all of our dancers to try it, when the time is right, and then decide. Our feiseanna (Irish Dance competitions) are positive and nurturing and foster a growth in your child that they may not achieve by just attending classes. Our adults may also compete in Club & Folk competitions.

Can I stay and watch the class?

Since the pandemic, only dancers attending a class and the instructors are permitted in the building.  Dancers are met at the door by an instructor and are admitted into the building 5 minutes prior to their class start time.  They are dismissed at the end of class directly into the parking lot.

How do I sign up?

Visit our Enrollment page and fill out a registration form.  You will also need to submit a $25 registration fee. Once your form and registration fee is received, we will contact you with additional information and forms/waivers to be filled out. Once this has been completed, you/your child may start dancing with us.