Meet the teacher!

Hey! I’m Irene, founder of Caitríona Irish Dance.

I Irish danced competitively for over 20 years, and am a three time world qualifier: twice in solo dancing and once in the 16-hand figure.

Chile

I’ve worked professionally in education and childcare for 10 years: 2 in Chile and 8 in the US.

In Chile, I taught 4th and 5th grade English, ran an elementary school run club, and taught Irish dance to all ages and levels. I even helped organize and run Chile’s first ever Irish dance competition!

US

In the US, I worked at the Boys & Girls Club, and ran some really fun clubs while there, such as journalism club, architecture club, run club, and, naturally, Irish dance club!

I’ve nannied all ages for over 7 years: from 4-month old babies to 12-year-old kids.

I assistant taught Irish dance for 10 years and am thrilled to now be leading my own dance school!

Around the world

Irish dance has brought me a myriad of unforgettable opportunities:

I’ve had the privilege of competing in amazing places like Scotland, Canada, Argentina, and of course, Ireland.

I’ve gotten to dance on TV news segments (one even included a sea lion and an otter!).

I’ve danced in countless St. Patrick’s Day shows and parades, and much, much, more.

My Why

Irish dance has always been my happy place, and I’m passionate about spreading that joy by providing a safe space and building community with a dance school that is accessible, empowering, and inclusive for all ages, all identities, all bodies, and all abilities.

I’ve named my school after my best friend and my biggest cheerleader: my mother Catherine (Caitríona in Irish).

Gratitude

I am forever grateful for entire support system that brought me to where I am today.

I’m grateful for my teachers Rori Ritchie, Jeannie Thornton, and Alisa Dosch (top left) of the Clan Rince School of Irish Dance for introducing me to the magic of Irish dance at age 5 and for believing in me when I returned to competing as an adult and qualified for worlds.

I’m grateful for my teacher Tony Comerford (top right) of the Comerford School for all of the amazing opportunities to dance in community at Celtic Camp and to compete in the 16-hand figure across the country and overseas.

I’m grateful for Sandra Claren (bottom left) of the Sandra Claren School for welcoming me into her studio in Santiago, Chile with open arms and for inspiring me to follow in her footsteps and get my TCRG certification.

Lastly, I’m grateful for Shaun Boyle (bottom right) of the Westfall Boyle Academy for challenging me in his workshops before major competitions.

Thank you! Gracias!