Healy School of Irish Dance

For well over a century, the Healy School of Irish Dance has been a vibrant cultural cornerstone in the California Bay Area, actively promoting Irish dance and heritage. Established in 1870, it proudly holds the distinction of being the longest-running Irish dance school in the world. This remarkable legacy is carried forward by five generations of a dedicated family, whose passion for traditional Irish dance continues to inspire students in Larkspur and beyond. At the heart of this esteemed institution are instructors like Alisa and Patti, who are renowned for their ability to take "dancers (and parents) under their wings" while instilling a profound love for Irish dance, meticulous technique, and impeccable form.

More than just a place to learn steps, the Healy School of Irish Dance fosters an environment where children and adults alike can flourish, gaining confidence and discovering the joy of self-expression through movement. As one parent beautifully articulated, their once "nervous, unsure little 6 year old" transformed into a confident dancer who genuinely enjoyed performances and competitions. The instructors skillfully balance fun with focus, ensuring that students remain engaged while developing discipline and precision. This unique approach leads to "amazing experiences," from competitive success to performing on grand stages like Oracle Park for SF Giants Irish Heritage Night, the Marin County Fair, and the iconic San Francisco St. Patrick's Day Parade. The Healy School of Irish Dance is truly a community, warmly welcoming everyone, regardless of their heritage, to experience the magic and camaraderie of Irish dance.

The Healy School of Irish Dance is primarily based at its mailing address: 85 Ardmore Rd, Larkspur, CA 94939, USA. This location places the school within the charming and easily accessible community of Larkspur, nestled in the heart of Marin County, California. This makes it a convenient and desirable destination for families and individuals living throughout Larkspur, Corte Madera, San Rafael, Mill Valley, and other surrounding areas in the North Bay.

In addition to its main presence, the Healy School also utilizes other class locations to serve the broader Bay Area community. One notable class location is the Masonic Lodge at 1122 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, which provides a dedicated space for instruction. Furthermore, they also hold classes at Suzie Studios, located at 425 Irwin Street, San Rafael, extending their reach to more students in Marin County. The presence of multiple teaching venues underscores their commitment to accessibility for students across the region. While the primary mailing address is on Ardmore Road, these class locations ensure that the joy of Irish dance is within reach for many California residents. For those driving, these locations typically offer convenient parking options, making drop-off and pick-up manageable for busy parents and adult students. The school's long history and continued presence in these communities highlight its deep roots and accessibility for local engagement.

The Healy School of Irish Dance offers a comprehensive and traditional program focused on teaching Irish dance to students of various ages and skill levels. Their curriculum is designed to impart both the technical precision and the cultural richness of this vibrant art form.

• Traditional Irish Dance Instruction: The core of their offering, where dancers learn traditional Irish dance steps and routines. This includes both soft shoe (reels, jigs, slip jigs) and hard shoe (treble jigs, hornpipes) dancing.

• Beginner Introduction Classes: New introductory classes are regularly offered, typically every 8 to 10 weeks, specifically for children aged 4 to 15. These sessions are designed for those with no prior dance experience, providing a welcoming entry point into the world of Irish dance.

• Solo and Team (Ceili) Classes: Students have the opportunity to participate in both solo Irish step dancing and group (céilí) dances. Céilí dances involve multiple dancers performing synchronized patterns, fostering teamwork and a sense of community.

• Competitive Dance Training: For dancers interested in competition, the school provides training to prepare them for local feiseanna (Irish dance competitions), as well as regional, national, and international championships. This includes detailed instruction on technique, form, and stage presence.

• Performance Groups: The Healy School has active performing groups that are in demand year-round. These groups showcase the power and grace of Irish dance at various events. They often have senior groups (most advanced dancers) and "Tralee Company" groups (younger, earlier-level dancers) to offer diverse performance opportunities.

• Physical Conditioning and Wellness: Dance classes incorporate warm-up, stretching, strengthening, and endurance components. This focus ensures proper technique, overall fitness, and the long-term health and livelihood of all dancers at every level.

• Cultural Promotion: Beyond dance steps, the school actively promotes Irish culture throughout the Bay Area, providing students with a deeper appreciation for the heritage behind the dance.

The Healy School of Irish Dance is distinguished by several key features and highlights that have cemented its place as a beloved institution in the California Bay Area:

• Deep Historical Legacy: Established in 1870, Healy School of Irish Dance holds the impressive title of the longest-running Irish dance school in the world. This multi-generational family tradition, spanning five generations of teachers (including current instructors PattiAnn Ranum and Alisa Belew), offers a unique depth of experience and heritage.

• Exceptional and Nurturing Instruction: Teachers like Alisa and Patti are consistently praised for their "gentle and kind instruction," their ability to "lovingly command the classroom," and their skill in teaching "good technique and form" while making it fun and keeping dancers focused. They truly take dancers and parents "under their wings."

• Significant Performance Opportunities: Students at Healy School gain incredible real-world performance experience. Highlights include performing on the field at Oracle Park for SF Giants Irish Heritage Night, appearances at the Marin County Fair, and marching in the iconic San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day Parade. These events provide invaluable exposure and a sense of pride.

• Competitive Success and Support: The school provides a strong foundation for competitive Irish dance, with dancers participating in and often excelling at local, regional, national, and even international competitions (World Championships). Instructors offer the guidance needed for dancers to progress through competitive levels. Alisa Belew herself is a World Championship medalist and former principal dancer with Trinity Irish Dance Company.

• Inclusive and Welcoming Community: Despite its rich heritage, the Healy School is highly inclusive. As one parent noted, even with "only a drop of Irish blood," their daughter was "welcomed by the entire Healy community." This fosters a strong sense of belonging and friendship among dancers and families.

• Focus on Holistic Development: Beyond dance technique, the school emphasizes broader benefits such as increasing poise, confidence, concentration, balance, coordination, structure, and discipline. The inclusion of warm-ups, stretching, and strengthening ensures the overall fitness and well-being of its dancers.

• Promoting Irish Culture: The school plays a significant role in promoting Irish dance and Irish culture throughout the Bay Area, making it a cultural ambassador and providing students with a deeper connection to their art form's roots.

For those in the California Bay Area interested in exploring the rich tradition of Irish dance at the Healy School of Irish Dance, here is their contact information:

Mailing Address: 85 Ardmore Rd, Larkspur, CA 94939, USA

Phone: (415) 924-9100

Mobile Phone: +1 415-924-9100

For the most up-to-date class schedules, specific class locations (such as the Masonic Lodge in Larkspur or Suzie Studios in San Rafael), registration details, and information on introductory programs for new students, it is highly recommended to visit their official website (healyirishdancers.com). Their website typically provides comprehensive details about their programs, faculty, and performance schedule. You can also reach out directly via phone during their operating hours to speak with PattiAnn Ranum or Alisa Belew for personalized assistance and to learn more about enrolling in classes.

For residents across California, particularly within Marin County and the greater Bay Area, the Healy School of Irish Dance is an exceptional and highly suitable local choice for dance education. Its unparalleled historical legacy as the world's longest-running Irish dance school offers a unique and authentic experience rooted in generations of expertise. Local families seeking a nurturing environment where their children can not only master Irish dance technique but also build confidence, develop discipline, and forge lasting friendships will find Healy to be an ideal fit.

The consistent positive reviews highlight the school's ability to keep classes fun while maintaining focus, leading to remarkable improvements in students' skills. Furthermore, the numerous opportunities for public performance, from major sporting events to community parades, provide invaluable real-world experience and a strong sense of connection to Irish culture. For adults, it's a chance to engage in a high-energy, culturally rich activity within a welcoming community. Choosing the Healy School of Irish Dance means becoming part of a storied tradition that enriches lives and strengthens cultural ties right here in our California communities, making it a truly cherished local establishment.

Healy School of Irish Dance

85 Ardmore Rd, Larkspur, CA 94939, USA