Claddagh Dance Company

Welcome to Claddagh Dance Company, California's premier destination for authentic Irish dance, located conveniently in El Segundo. Since its establishment in 1985 by Máire O'Connell, who moved from Galway, Ireland, this esteemed institution has been enriching the lives of Southern California communities with the vibrant culture and intricate art form of Irish dance. Claddagh Dance Company is more than just a dance school; it's a dedicated community where students from four years old to adults embark on a journey of discipline, performance, and cultural appreciation.

At Claddagh Dance Company, we pride ourselves on upholding the highest standards of Irish dance instruction. Our commitment extends to fostering a supportive and familial environment where every student, regardless of their background or experience, can thrive. We believe that Irish dance offers a unique blend of physical challenge, mental agility, and artistic expression, making it a rewarding pursuit for all who engage with it. From learning the foundational steps in traditional soft and hard shoes to mastering complex choreographies for solo and group performances, students at Claddagh Dance Company are guided by highly accredited instructors, including World Championship winners. We invite you to discover the joy and camaraderie that comes with being a part of the Claddagh dance family.

Claddagh Dance Company's South Bay location is situated at 730 S Allied Way Ste G, El Segundo, CA 90245, USA. This accessible address makes it a convenient choice for residents of El Segundo, as well as surrounding South Bay cities such as Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance, and beyond. El Segundo is known for its welcoming community and easy-to-navigate streets, contributing to a hassle-free experience for students and their families. The studio is typically located within a commercial area, often providing adequate parking options, which is a significant advantage in the often-busy Southern California landscape. Its proximity to major roadways ensures that whether you're coming from nearby neighborhoods or making a dedicated trip from other parts of Los Angeles County, reaching Claddagh Dance Company is straightforward, allowing more time for the passion of dance.

Claddagh Dance Company offers a comprehensive range of services dedicated to the art and culture of Irish dance. Our core offerings include:

• Irish Dance Classes for All Ages: Instruction available for students ranging from four years old through adulthood, catering to various skill levels from absolute beginners to championship competitors.
• Solo and Group Dance Training: Students learn a mix of solo (step dance) and group (céilí and figure choreography) dances in traditional soft and hard shoes.
• Competitive Training: Opportunities for students to compete in local, regional, national, and international Irish dance competitions, including the prestigious World Irish Dance Championships, where Claddagh has produced numerous champions.
• Performance Opportunities: Students regularly participate in community events, cultural festivals, and private functions, showcasing their skills and sharing Irish culture with a wider audience.
• Foundation Classes for Beginners: Special programs and introductory offers, such as a free month of dance classes for new beginner dancers, designed to welcome newcomers and establish fundamental skills.
• Certified and Experienced Instructors: Classes are taught by highly accredited teachers, including those with CLRG (An Coimisiún Le Rincí Gaelacha) certification as teachers, adjudicators, and examiners, ensuring the highest standard of instruction.
• Cultural Immersion: Beyond dance steps, students often learn aspects of Irish history and culture, enriching their understanding and appreciation of the art form.

Claddagh Dance Company stands out for several key features and highlights that firmly establish its reputation as California's premier Irish dance school:

• Rich Heritage and Longevity: Established in 1985 by Máire O'Connell, an accredited teacher and adjudicator from Galway, Ireland, the company boasts a long and proud history of bringing authentic Irish culture and dance to Southern California. This deep-rooted heritage contributes to the genuine experience offered.
• World-Class Instructors and Proven Success: The school is unique in California for having won World Irish Dance Championship titles in Solo, Céilí, and Figure Choreography. Instructors like Annie Darlington, who joined Claddagh at age 3 and became a world champion herself, ensure a lineage of excellence. Their expertise helps train "new generations of dancers from new beginners to world champions."
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Claddagh teaches a full spectrum of traditional Irish dance, encompassing both soft shoe (reels, slip jigs) and hard shoe (hornpipe, treble jig) techniques, as well as intricate céilí (group) and figure choreography, providing a well-rounded dance education.
• Nurturing and Supportive Environment: Reviews highlight the incredible respect students have for their teachers and for each other. "The older girls make it their responsibility to take care of the beginning dancers, and it's obvious that the little ones, in turn, look up to them." This familial atmosphere fosters confidence and encourages personal growth beyond just dance steps.
• Global Competition and Performance Opportunities: Students are given unparalleled opportunities to "compete throughout the world" and participate in "community events," allowing them to showcase their talents on international stages and share Irish culture locally.
• Focus on Holistic Development: Beyond dance technique, the school is praised for instilling "confidence," "discipline," and "teamwork." As one parent beautifully put it, "Claddagh, teach much more than Irish dancing and our family is richer because of it."

For more information or to inquire about classes, please contact Claddagh Dance Company:

Address: 730 S Allied Way Ste G, El Segundo, CA 90245, USA

Phone: (310) 751-9445

Mobile Phone: +1 310-751-9445

Claddagh Dance Company is an outstanding choice for locals in the California region, particularly those in the South Bay and greater Los Angeles area, who are seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tradition of Irish dance. Its El Segundo location provides convenient access for families and individuals, making it easy to incorporate classes into busy schedules. The school's long-standing history, coupled with its consistent success in producing world-champion dancers, speaks volumes about the quality of instruction and dedication of its teachers. For parents, the opportunity for children to not only learn a unique art form but also develop crucial life skills such as confidence, discipline, and teamwork in a supportive, family-like environment is incredibly valuable. For adults, it offers a fantastic way to engage with Irish culture, stay active, and join a welcoming community. Whether your goal is competitive excellence, cultural enrichment, or simply to enjoy the lively rhythms of Irish dance, Claddagh Dance Company provides an unparalleled and authentic experience right here in your local California community, truly adding a touch of Ireland to Southern California life.

Claddagh Dance Company

730 S Allied Way Ste G, El Segundo, CA 90245, USA