Cork/Blarney Dance Academy

Cork / Blarney Dance Academy offers Irish Dance classes for children, teens and adults in County Cork, Ireland, with its long-established home in Blarney and current classes also offered in Tower. Founded in 1995, the academy celebrated 30 years of Irish Dance in 2025.

The academy is led by Michele Ryan, TCRG, and welcomes dancers from beginner through advanced levels. Classes include traditional Irish step dancing — reels, jigs, hornpipes and traditional set dances — along with céilí and figure dancing. Students can dance recreationally, participate in performances and cultural events, complete Grade Exams, travel with the academy or pursue competitive Irish Dance.

Blarney Dance Academy places a strong emphasis on helping every dancer achieve their personal best while developing a lifelong appreciation for Irish Dance and culture. Its philosophy puts friendship and fun first, with competition available for dancers who want to pursue it rather than being a requirement. The school also participates in Autism Friendly Blarney and works to provide an inclusive and supportive environment for dancers with a diverse range of abilities and learning needs.

Dancers have opportunities to take their Irish Dance experiences well beyond the classroom. Over the years, academy dancers have travelled and performed or competed internationally in destinations including Paris, Rome, Berlin, The Hague, Antwerp, Belgium and Edinburgh, including a performance at Disneyland Paris on St. Patrick's Day 2024. In 2025, eight academy dancers competed at the WIDA World Championships, where the school's adult céilí team placed 9th in the World.

The academy also offers a pathway for experienced dancers interested in becoming qualified Irish Dance teachers, with training toward TCRG and TMRF qualifications.

Cork / Blarney Dance Academy is currently affiliated with the World Irish Dance Association (WIDA).