Battle of the Irish Dancers Featuring Three IDM Cover Stars

The series offers an unprecedented look at the dedication, athleticism, and artistry behind the 2025 World Championships.

Viewers will follow dancers from three elite schools — the Scanlon School (Birmingham), the Kelly Hendry School (Newcastle), and the Niall Holly Academy (Dublin) — as they train for the biggest competition of their lives.

Irish Dancing Magazine’s current cover stars (Mid-Nov/Dec 2025 print edition), Maria Puente de la Vega and Saoirse Fleming of the Kelly Hendry School, take center stage in the series. The two friends’ shared determination and camaraderie shine through as they balance friendship, fierce competition, and the pressure of dancing on the world’s biggest stage.

Pictured: Maria (left) and Saoirse (right) during their cover shoot for Irish Dancing Magazine — Photographer: Dance Photography MK by Agata Brennan.

“We motivate each other, help one another reach our goals, and keep each other going when training gets tough,” Maria told IDM.

Also featured is Owen Luebbers, two-time World Champion and IDM’s January 2024 cover star.

“Irish Dance has taught me to be strong in the face of adversity and to stand up for what I believe,” Owen told IDM in his 2024 interview.

Catch Battle of the Irish Dancers beginning Tuesday, Nov. 12, as Sky Arts premieres this new three-part documentary airing across the UK and Ireland (also streaming on NOW).

Don’t miss IDM’s exclusive interviews with these remarkable dancers — in print and online. Order Irish Dancing Magazine now at www.irishdancing.com.

By Isabella Gruber, IDM Editorial Intern
Isabella (Bella) Gruber is a Public Relations student at Marquette University and an editorial intern with Irish Dancing Magazine. She is passionate about writing, culture, and building community through storytelling.