UPDATE:
“I am writing to request that you publish a correction to your recent article about an Irish Dance School opening in DC. I am not sure who wrote the Press Release, but it is inaccurate in saying it is the first in DC.
My daughter has attended Shannon Dunne’s program for a number of years, and five years ago Shannon was also based in Tenlytown. Shannon’s program may be sean-nos vs traditional step dancing, but it is still Irish dancing. Shannon has been in the area since 2006, and was even featured in the Washington Post. Her students travel to Ireland every year for competitions.
Further, there are other Irish dance schools in the area, such as Culkin. Culkin was established back in 1997 in Bethesda and continues to hold class all around Montgomery County, very near the DC border. Irish dance is not a new concept for the general DC area.”
courtesy District Irish Dance Academy
From a press release:
“Riverdance cast member and certified Pilates instructor Joe Duffey announces the first Washington, D.C.-based Irish dance academy, District Irish Dance Academy, will open Fall 2018.
To celebrate the opening, the Academy will host a free, all-ages open house August 25 from 12 – 1:30 p.m. at the Fuse Pilates studio in Northwest D.C.
Offering classes for both kids and adults, the Academy will connect dancers to the rich history of Irish dance. “The unique thing about Irish dance is the close connection between culture and art form,” founder Joe Duffey says. “You definitely don’t have to be Irish to participate; Irish dance culture has transcended people with Irish roots. That said, it’s also a great way to re-connect with your Irish heritage.”
The opening of the Academy represents a lifelong dream for Duffey, and after years of performing and teaching around the globe, he’s excited to bring his work back to his hometown.
“After touring nearly every continent with shows such as Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, I’m delighted to return home to establish District Irish Dance Academy,” he says. “Our goal is to celebrate the diversity and vibrancy of this city and strengthen cultural ties between Washington, D.C. and Ireland for generations to come. Let’s get dancing, D.C.!”
Duffey also recently performed with global sensation Riverdance at the Warner Theatre, the first performance of Riverdance within the city limits in the show’s almost-25-year history.
About District Irish Dance Academy:
Inspired by the vibrance of the Nation’s Capital and determined to return his love of Irish dance to his hometown, Joe Duffey founded District Irish Dance Academy in 2018. Serving the D.C. area from the Fuse Pilates studio located near Tenleytown, the Academy will host students of all ages beginning in the fall. For more information or to register for classes, visit www.districtirishdance.com.”