De Barra Academy of Irish Dance

For those in California seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and exhilarating rhythms of Irish dance, De Barra Academy of Irish Dance (DBA) in Manhattan Beach stands as a beacon of excellence and community. Led by the acclaimed Riverdance & World Champion Tara Barry-Phelan, DBA offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn this captivating art form, whether you're taking your very first steps or aiming for championship glory. This academy is not merely a dance studio; it's a supportive family where passion, perseverance, and tradition come together.

De Barra Academy of Irish Dance has quickly become a beloved institution in the Southern California dance scene, drawing students from across the South Bay and beyond. The philosophy at DBA goes beyond teaching steps; it's about instilling a love for Irish culture, building confidence, and fostering a strong work ethic in a joyful environment. As one parent beautifully put it, "De Barra Academy has been a gift to our family since our daughter met Tara through an after school program and fell in love with Irish Dance (and Ms. Tara)." This sentiment underscores the profound impact Tara Barry-Phelan and her academy have on their students' lives.

The quality of instruction at DBA is truly exceptional, reflecting Tara Barry-Phelan's illustrious career as a two-time World Champion and former Principal Dancer of Riverdance. Her ability to translate her world-class experience into clear, encouraging, and effective teaching is consistently praised by parents and students alike. "Her teacher, Tara, is fantastic & my daughter adores her! She really cares about each student & ensures that they are well prepared before they begin competing!" highlights the personalized attention and dedication that students receive. This commitment ensures that every dancer, regardless of their starting point, feels valued and empowered to achieve their dance aspirations.

If you're a local in California searching for a dance school that offers both authentic heritage and a nurturing community, De Barra Academy of Irish Dance is the definitive choice. It's a place where children and adults alike can discover the joy of Irish dance, develop discipline, and become part of a truly special "DBA family." Experience the magic of Irish dance under the guidance of a true champion, and find your rhythm right here in Manhattan Beach.

De Barra Academy of Irish Dance is conveniently situated at 3625 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, USA. This prime location in the heart of the South Bay makes it highly accessible for families and individuals across a wide geographical area in Southern California. Sepulveda Boulevard is a major arterial road, ensuring easy navigation and direct access to the studio.

For those driving to classes, the studio's location typically offers practical parking solutions, which is a significant advantage in a busy area like Manhattan Beach. The ease of finding parking contributes to a stress-free experience for parents dropping off or picking up their children, or for adults attending classes. Being in Manhattan Beach, DBA is easily reachable for residents from neighboring cities such as Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, El Segundo, Torrance, and other South Bay communities. This local accessibility is crucial for maintaining a consistent dance schedule.

While a personal vehicle is often the primary mode of transport in this part of California, public transportation options are also available. Local bus services operate along Sepulveda Boulevard and connect to broader transit networks, providing an alternative for those who prefer or need public transport. This robust accessibility, combined with the pleasant and safe environment of Manhattan Beach, enhances the overall appeal and convenience of attending De Barra Academy of Irish Dance, making it a truly local-friendly destination for Irish dance enthusiasts.

Services Offered:

• Irish Dance Classes for All Ages and Levels: From "Tiny Tots" (ages 4-5) to adult classes, catering to complete beginners through to preliminary and open championship dancers.
• Beginner Irish Dance Instruction: Specialized classes for students with little to no prior Irish dance experience, focusing on fundamental soft shoe techniques and basic movements.
• Competitive Irish Dance Training: Intensive programs for dedicated dancers aiming to excel in local Feiseanna (competitions), regional championships, and major international competitions, guided by a World Champion. "Tara is committed to teaching her students the importance of hard work & perseverance in a fun and supportive environment. We feel so lucky to have found Tara & to be a part of the wonderful DBA community she has created!"
• Non-Competitive Irish Dance Classes: Opportunities for dancers to learn and enjoy Irish dance for recreation, fitness, and cultural appreciation without the pressure of competition.
• Soft Shoe Classes: Instruction focusing on reels, jigs, and slip jigs, performed in soft, ghillie-style shoes.
• Hard Shoe Classes: Training in hornpipes and treble jigs, utilizing hard shoes to create percussive rhythms.
• Private Lessons: One-on-one instruction tailored to individual goals, perfect for personalized coaching, competition preparation, or specific skill development. Available by appointment.
• Summer Camps: Seasonal intensive programs offering a deeper dive into Irish dance, music, and culture, open to all ages and levels.
• Workshops: Specialized, periodic workshops focusing on specific techniques, choreography, or aspects of Irish dance.
• Performance Opportunities: Students may have opportunities to perform at local community events, showcases, and cultural festivals, allowing them to share their talents.

Features / Highlights:

• Led by a World Champion and Riverdance Principal Dancer: The academy's primary highlight is its founder and lead instructor, Tara Barry-Phelan, whose extensive competitive and professional experience provides unparalleled guidance and inspiration. This is a significant draw for aspiring dancers in California.
• Strong Emphasis on Community and Family: DBA fosters a warm, supportive, and inclusive environment where students and families feel like part of a close-knit "DBA family." "This is a testament to Tara and the community she has created through the love she puts into teaching our kids. DBA is a family!"
• Nurturing and Committed Teachers: Instructors, particularly Tara, are praised for their genuine care for each student's progress and well-being, ensuring they are "well prepared before they begin competing!" and instilling "the importance of hard work & perseverance."
• Balance of Fun and Discipline: The teaching approach effectively blends enjoyable learning with the discipline required for developing strong dance technique and a competitive mindset. "My daughter has been taking Irish Dance at DBA for the last year and a half & loves it! Her teacher, Tara, is fantastic & my daughter adores her!"
• Authenticity and Heritage: Students learn directly from an Irish native with deep roots in the tradition, ensuring an authentic experience of Irish dance and culture.
• Opportunities for Growth: Whether a student aims for recreational enjoyment or competitive excellence, DBA provides pathways and expert guidance for all levels of aspiration, from beginner to championship.
• Consistent Student Engagement: The school's ability to maintain student enthusiasm and dedication over many years, as evidenced by a daughter who "hasn’t wavered from her desire to go to class and work hard to improve" for almost six years.
• SafeSport Trained Instructor: Tara Barry-Phelan is SafeSport trained, indicating a commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment for all participants.

Contact Information:

Address: 3625 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, USA

Phone: (626) 676-9269

For locals in California, especially those residing in the South Bay area, De Barra Academy of Irish Dance offers an exceptional and highly suitable opportunity to engage with Irish dance. Its convenient location on N Sepulveda Blvd in Manhattan Beach ensures easy access for families and individuals from across the region, making regular attendance practical and minimizing travel time. This accessibility is a crucial factor for busy Californians seeking quality extracurricular activities.

The most compelling reason for locals to choose DBA is the direct instruction from a genuine world-class talent, Tara Barry-Phelan, a Riverdance & World Champion. This level of expertise is rare and provides an unparalleled learning experience for students of all ages. Parents consistently laud Tara's kindness, support, and dedication to each student's development, highlighting her ability to cultivate hard work and perseverance in a fun and nurturing environment. This personalized attention and emphasis on positive reinforcement make it an ideal setting for young dancers to thrive, and for adults to enjoy a new passion.

Furthermore, the strong sense of community that Tara has cultivated at DBA resonates deeply with local values. It's described as a "wonderful DBA community" and a "family," creating a welcoming atmosphere where students feel connected and supported beyond just dance steps. Whether a local child is just discovering Irish dance through an after-school program or an adult is looking for a unique way to stay active and socialize, DBA offers a fulfilling experience. For Californians seeking not just a dance class, but a vibrant cultural hub and a supportive community right in their neighborhood, De Barra Academy of Irish Dance is an undeniable top choice.

De Barra Academy of Irish Dance

3625 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, USA