Onórach Mulhern Geraghty School of Irish Dance (OMG)

For families across Minnesota, particularly those in the southwest Twin Cities suburbs like Chanhassen, who are seeking an enriching activity that combines cultural heritage, physical artistry, and a supportive community, the Onórach Mulhern Geraghty School of Irish Dance (OMG) presents an unparalleled opportunity. This esteemed academy is part of a world-renowned network of Irish dance schools, officially certified through CLRG in Ireland, known for developing and supporting dancers from their very first steps up through World Championship levels of competition.

OMG Irish Dance is more than just a dance studio; it's a vibrant and welcoming community where the joy and camaraderie of Irish step dance are paramount. The school's unique strength comes from its spirited partnership, formed in 2020 through the merger of Ireland's Geraghty School of Irish Dance and the United States' Mulhern School of Irish Dance. This collaboration brings together accomplished founders and directors, including Brian Geraghty, Eileen Mulhern O'Kane, and Coleen Mulhern Malloy, all ADCRG certified. Their combined expertise and passion create an unparalleled environment for dancers to thrive. OMG embraces the philosophy that Irish dance can be a rewarding pursuit for everyone, fostering confidence and a love for the art form, whether students aspire to competitive success or simply wish to enjoy a unique cultural experience.

The Onórach Mulhern Geraghty School of Irish Dance (OMG) in Minnesota is conveniently located in Chanhassen, offering excellent accessibility for families throughout the western and southwestern suburbs of the Twin Cities. You'll find their studio space at:

18946 Lake Dr E, Chanhassen, MN 55317, USA

While the school has strong ties and teachers who may travel from other locations (such as Chicago, as mentioned in one review), their Minnesota presence in Chanhassen ensures that local families have direct access to their high-caliber instruction. This location on Lake Drive East provides straightforward access for residents of Chanhassen, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Excelsior, Victoria, and other surrounding communities. The area typically offers convenient parking options, making drop-off and pick-up for classes a smooth experience. Being situated in a family-friendly suburb known for its community focus further enhances OMG's appeal as a premier local destination for Irish dance.

The Onórach Mulhern Geraghty School of Irish Dance (OMG) offers a comprehensive array of programs designed to nurture Irish dancers of all ages and skill levels, from absolute beginners to those aspiring for the world stage. Their services are characterized by a focus on individualized instruction and a balanced approach to commitment:

• Beginner Programs: Dancers can start as early as four years old, though it's never too late, with programs welcoming teenagers and adults. Beginner boys dance for FREE, making it an incredibly accessible entry point for male dancers.
• Tiered Progression: OMG provides a clear path for dancers to advance through levels, from Beginner up through World Championship ranks. This includes specific instruction for Advanced Beginner, Novice, Prizewinner, Preliminary Championship, and Open Championship levels.
• Flexible Class Commitment: Unlike some schools requiring extensive weekly commitments, OMG emphasizes that dancers can "fully thrive only going to class one day a week," making it manageable for families with busy schedules while still achieving superior results through individualized instruction. (Note: Some locations, like Westmont IL, may have a 2x/week class structure, but the MN location emphasizes once a week).
• Solo Irish Step Dance: Core instruction in traditional Irish step dancing, focusing on proper technique, rhythm, and intricate footwork for both soft and hard shoe styles.
• Team (Ceilí) Dancing: Opportunities to learn and perform traditional Irish group dances, fostering teamwork and camaraderie.
• Performance Opportunities: Dancers actively participate in performances throughout the year, including popular events during St. Patrick's Day celebrations and summer festivals. These provide valuable stage experience and a chance to share the joy of Irish dance with the community.
• Competition Preparation: For those interested, the school rigorously prepares dancers for regional (Oireachtas), national (North American Irish Dance Championships), and international (World Championships) competitions, with a proven track record of success.
• Workshops and Intensives: Additional training opportunities, including a multi-day "Boot Camp" during the summer (as seen in some sister locations), to further enhance skills and stamina.
• Adult Classes: Programs designed for adults of all levels who wish to learn or return to Irish dancing, whether for fitness, fun, or competition.
• Costume Guidance: The school works with families to find attire that fits their budget, aiming to keep costs reasonable and providing school costumes that can last several years.

The Onórach Mulhern Geraghty School of Irish Dance (OMG) distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that contribute to its strong reputation and the loyalty of its dance families:

• World-Renowned & Certified Instruction: Being officially certified through CLRG in Ireland, and led by highly accomplished directors (ADCRG certified) like Eileen Mulhern O'Kane and Coleen Mulhern Malloy (who even danced for Michael Flatley!), OMG offers instruction of the highest global standard.
• Proven Competitive Success: The school has produced numerous World medal and podium placements, Irish Nationals, British Nationals, All Ireland, All Scotland medal holders, and countless North American and Oireachtas titles. Their dancers "thrive in competition."
• Supportive and Nurturing Environment: OMG is frequently described as a "family" where "everyone celebrates the successes of the dancers, on and off the dance floor." Teachers are known for loving the children and pushing them to be their best while fostering individual growth.
• Flexible Commitment for High Results: A unique highlight is the ability for dancers to "fully thrive only going to class one day a week," which is a significant advantage for families juggling multiple activities, demonstrating the effectiveness of their individualized instruction.
• "Boys are Free!": This incredible initiative makes Irish dance highly accessible for young male dancers, encouraging diversity in the art form. OMG has a track record of producing top male dancers.
• Focus on Holistic Development: Beyond dance technique, the school helps students develop passion, confidence, poise, and valuable life lessons like hard work, cooperation, and respect, which serve them well beyond the studio.
• Abundant Performance Opportunities: The chance to participate in public performances during St. Patrick's Day, summer events, and potentially with international musicians (for advanced levels) provides invaluable stage experience and community engagement.
• Accommodating and Understanding Staff: As mentioned by parents, the teachers "understand the daily demands and other interests their students might have and were open to accommodating their needs," fostering a flexible and supportive atmosphere.

To learn more about the Onórach Mulhern Geraghty School of Irish Dance (OMG), including class schedules, registration details, or to inquire about their programs, you can reach them using the following contact information:

Address: 18946 Lake Dr E, Chanhassen, MN 55317, USA

Phone: (952) 334-3158

For the most up-to-date information regarding class offerings, free trial lessons, and any special events, visiting their official website or contacting them directly by phone is highly recommended.

For families and aspiring dancers across Minnesota, particularly in Chanhassen and the wider Twin Cities area, the Onórach Mulhern Geraghty School of Irish Dance (OMG) is an exceptional destination for Irish dance education. It is perfectly suitable for locals who are seeking not only world-class instruction but also a deeply supportive, flexible, and community-oriented environment where dancers can truly thrive. The enthusiastic testimonials from parents clearly illustrate why this school is such a valued resource.

One parent enthusiastically shared, "We love OMG! Our dancer has thrived in competition since she moved to this school. We also enjoy performances during St. Patrick’s Day and over the summer. Plus you can fully thrive only going to class one day a week. And boys are free!!" Another highlighted the positive experience for younger dancers: "My preschooler loves learning Irish dance at Mulhern! They use studio space at Dance Esteem because the teachers fly in from Chicago. We feel so fortunate to have found this class! Very pleased with the teachers and my child's progression."

These powerful endorsements highlight OMG's success in fostering both competitive excellence and a joyful, accessible dance experience. If you're looking for a dance home in Minnesota that offers top-tier Irish dance instruction, fosters personal growth, and embraces a family-like atmosphere, Onórach Mulhern Geraghty School of Irish Dance in Chanhassen is an excellent choice for your family.

Onórach Mulhern Geraghty School of Irish Dance (OMG)

18946 Lake Dr E, Chanhassen, MN 55317, USA