O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy: A Legacy of Irish Dance in Ohio

O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy Introduce

For those in Ohio seeking a unique blend of athleticism, artistry, and cultural heritage, the O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy stands as a premier institution. With a history rooted in competitive excellence and a deep passion for Irish dance, this academy offers an unparalleled opportunity for individuals of all ages and skill levels to immerse themselves in this captivating art form. From the intricate footwork of a reel to the disciplined grace of a jig, students at O'Kennedy-Holland learn more than just steps; they embrace a rich cultural tradition while developing confidence, discipline, and lasting friendships.

The O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy boasts a prestigious lineage, having its origins in England in 2007 before officially opening in the USA in 2011 with locations in Columbus and Cleveland, Ohio. It has rapidly become one of the most successful Irish dance schools globally, producing numerous Regional, National, and World Champions. This impressive track record, however, is balanced with a strong commitment to nurturing every student, whether they aspire to competitive glory or simply wish to enjoy the artistic and physical benefits of Irish dance. The academy's mission is to inspire the very best in each dancer, focusing on elements like friendship, fitness, respect, and discipline, ensuring that every child feels special and important.

The O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy's Medina/Akron location is conveniently situated at 313 Medina Rd Suite 100, Medina, OH 44256, USA. This easily accessible address places the academy within a prime area for families across Northeast Ohio, including those in Medina, Akron, Cleveland, and surrounding communities. The studio's presence within the Pinnacle Sports Complex offers additional amenities and a professional environment for dancers. Being located on Medina Road, a significant thoroughfare, ensures straightforward travel for parents and students, making it a convenient choice for extracurricular activities. Ample parking is typically available at the complex, further enhancing the accessibility for visitors. This strategic location makes O'Kennedy-Holland a central hub for Irish dance enthusiasts throughout the region.

The O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy offers a comprehensive range of classes designed to cater to dancers at every stage of their journey, from complete beginners to championship-level competitors. Their curriculum is structured to provide top-tier instruction while fostering a love for Irish dance.

Introductory Classes: Specifically designed for new students, these classes provide a welcoming entry point into the world of Irish dance, teaching fundamental steps and rhythms in a fun and engaging manner. They are typically offered at the Medina/Akron Pinnacle location.
Beginner Classes: For those who have completed introductory lessons or have some basic experience, these classes build upon foundational skills, introducing more complex steps and techniques.
Advanced Beginner Classes: Dancers in this level refine their basic techniques and begin to explore more intricate footwork and choreography, preparing them for competitive progression.
Novice / Prizewinner Classes: These classes are for students who have advanced through the initial levels and are actively competing. The focus shifts to mastering more challenging steps and perfecting performance quality.
Championship Classes (Preliminary and Open Championship): Catering to the highest levels of competitive Irish dance, these rigorous classes focus on advanced technique, stamina, intricate choreography, and stage presence, preparing dancers for regional (Oireachtas), national, and world competitions.
Ceili Classes: Ceili (pronounced "kay-lee") classes focus on traditional group dances, which are an integral part of Irish dance culture and competition. These classes emphasize teamwork, timing, and traditional patterns.
Exercise Classes: Dedicated sessions designed to improve the physical conditioning, strength, flexibility, and stamina crucial for Irish dancers.
Oireachtas Solos Preparation: Specialized training for dancers preparing for the Mid-America Oireachtas, a major regional championship, focusing on the specific solo dances required for this prestigious competition.
Team Dancing: O'Kennedy-Holland has a strong tradition of excellence in team dancing, offering opportunities for students to participate in group choreography for competitive events. The academy has won multiple World Championship titles in both boys and girls team sections.

Classes run throughout the academic year, typically from September through May, with specific schedules for different levels and types of classes, including weekday evenings and Saturday mornings.

The O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy distinguishes itself through several compelling features and highlights that underscore its reputation as a world-class institution and a cherished local asset.

World Championship Legacy: The Academy's most prominent highlight is its unparalleled success in competitive Irish dance. Since its inception, it has garnered numerous Major Irish Dancing Championship Titles worldwide, including Regional, British National, All Scotland, Great Britain, American National, All Ireland, and World Championships in both solo and team sections. This includes making history by winning the first-ever female and male World Championship titles from Columbus, Ohio.
Exceptional Leadership and Instructors: The Academy was founded by World Irish Dance Champions, Byron Tuttle and Edward Searle. The current teaching staff, including accomplished TCRG-certified instructors like Eileen O'Kennedy-Dunlap and Michael Holland, bring "the very best of Irish Dancing from the UK and Ireland right here to Columbus and Cleveland, Ohio!" Their expertise and personal competitive success directly benefit the students.
Holistic Dancer Development: Beyond competitive success, the Academy is committed to inspiring "the 100% very best out of each and every one of our dancers." Their mission emphasizes empowering children and teens with "self esteem and self confidence to go out into the world and succeed," focusing on elements like friendship, fitness, respect, and discipline.
Inclusive Environment: The Academy prides itself on being open to dancers of all ages and levels, from complete beginners to advanced competitors, ensuring "there is a place for everyone." This inclusive approach fosters a strong sense of community.
Performance Opportunities: O'Kennedy-Holland dancers have not only excelled in competitions but have also made television appearances, including being a featured act on Season 8 of NBC's America's Got Talent. They also perform at a variety of mainstream events and festivals, such as the Dublin Irish Festival, offering students diverse performance experiences.
Structured Progression: The clearly defined class levels, from introductory to championship, ensure a logical and effective progression for dancers as they develop their skills and competitive aspirations.
Commitment to Culture: The Academy fosters a love for Irish dancing as an "exciting and dynamic artistic sport," thereby preserving and promoting Irish culture and heritage within the Ohio community.

For detailed information on class schedules, enrollment, or any other inquiries about the O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy, please use the following contact information:

Address: 313 Medina Rd Suite 100, Medina, OH 44256, USA

Phone: (877) 722-5448

Email: According to their website, you can also reach them via email at eileen@OHIrishdanceAcademy.com.

Website: While not explicitly provided in the prompt, their official website is the primary source for the most up-to-date class information, registration details, and further insights into their programs. A quick search for "O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy" will lead you directly to it.

For residents of Ohio, particularly in the Medina, Akron, and Cleveland areas, the O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy represents an extraordinary opportunity to engage with Irish dance at its highest level. Whether your child dreams of becoming a world champion or simply wishes to explore a unique and invigorating dance form, this academy offers the ideal environment. Its legacy of producing highly successful dancers, combined with a deeply nurturing and inclusive philosophy, ensures that every student receives both expert technical training and invaluable life lessons in confidence, discipline, and teamwork.

The accessibility of their Medina location, coupled with the wide range of classes catering to all ages and abilities, makes O'Kennedy-Holland an incredibly suitable choice for locals. It's a place where cultural heritage is celebrated through dynamic movement, and where the joy of dancing is evident in every step. Choosing O'Kennedy-Holland Irish Dance Academy means investing in a program that is committed to inspiring excellence and fostering a lifelong passion for Irish dance within a supportive and celebrated community right here in Ohio.