Ryan School of Irish Dance

For those in Louisiana eager to connect with a rich cultural heritage through dynamic movement, the Ryan School of Irish Dance offers a truly unique and enriching experience right in Metairie. Founded in 2004 by Sheila Ryan-Davoren, a TCRG certified instructor with a distinguished career that includes dancing with The Chieftains and Riverdance, the school is dedicated to preserving and passing on the traditional art of Irish step dance. More than just a dance studio, the Ryan School of Irish Dance cultivates a vibrant community where students, both boys and girls from age 4 to adult, can learn, grow, and build lifelong friendships. The mission is clear: to provide a fun learning environment where Irish culture is celebrated and carried on through music and dance. Whether a student is taking their very first steps in a beginner class or is an advanced dancer aiming for championship levels, the school offers comprehensive instruction. Beyond the technical aspects of Irish dance, the curriculum instills invaluable traits such as confidence, poise, sportsmanship, focus, and determination. By offering both competitive and performance opportunities, the Ryan School of Irish Dance ensures that students can showcase their talents, whether on the competitive stage at "feiseanna" (Irish dance competitions) or through captivating community performances, making it a beloved hub for Irish culture in Louisiana.

The Ryan School of Irish Dance has a convenient location at 4732 Sanford St, Metairie, LA 70006, USA. This address places the school within easy reach for families and individuals throughout Metairie and the broader New Orleans metropolitan area. Sanford Street is readily accessible, ensuring a straightforward commute for those coming from various neighborhoods in Jefferson Parish and beyond. The proximity to major roads helps to reduce travel time, making it practical for students to attend weekly classes. While specific parking information isn't always detailed for every local business, the location within a residential/commercial blend in Metairie typically offers adequate parking options for visitors. The Ryan School also strategically offers classes at other locations, including Covington, ensuring broader accessibility for passionate dancers across Louisiana. However, the Metairie studio serves as a central point for many, deeply embedding the school within the local community and providing a convenient and familiar hub for Irish dance enthusiasts.

• Traditional Irish step dance classes for boys and girls.
• Classes available for a wide range of ages, starting from age 4 and extending to adult students.
• Instruction for all skill levels, from complete beginners to championship-level dancers.
• Beginner-specific classes, often with free trial opportunities to experience the class firsthand.
• Intermediate and Advanced level classes for progressive skill development.
• Competitive dance training for students interested in participating in "feiseanna" (Irish dance competitions) at regional and national levels.
• Performance group available for shows and events at venues throughout Louisiana (including Lafayette, Lake Charles, New Orleans, and Baton Rouge).
• Opportunities to book performances for special occasions such as St. Patrick's Day, Christmas, and other events throughout the year.
• Focus on teaching proper technique for both hard shoes (tap-like) and ghillies (ballet-type slipper shoes).
• Emphasis on the unique arm placement in Irish dance (arms kept to the side).
• Training that instills confidence, poise, sportsmanship, focus, and determination in dancers.
• Encouragement of life-long friendships and cultural connection within the dance community.
• Flexible monthly tuition rates based on hours per week of instruction.

• Founded in 2004 by Sheila Ryan-Davoren, TCRG, a highly accomplished dancer with a background in Riverdance and The Chieftains.
• Dedicated to preserving and passing on the traditional art form of Irish step dance.
• Strong emphasis on providing a fun learning experience where life-long friendships are made.
• Cultivates an appreciation for Irish culture through music and dance.
• Offers both competitive and non-competitive dance options, catering to diverse student goals.
• Students have opportunities to showcase their skills through community performances and competitions.
• Instructors are highly experienced, including those with competitive Irish dancing backgrounds.
• A welcoming environment that encourages confidence and personal growth in dancers.
• Focus on developing physical attributes such as coordination and balance.
• Teaches the unique characteristics of Irish dance, including specific arm positions and footwork.
• Provides a clear class schedule for different levels, including Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced.
• Committed to enriching the community and fostering grace and integrity in every student.

Address: 4732 Sanford St, Metairie, LA 70006, USA

Phone: (985) 276-9261

For families and individuals across Metairie and the wider Louisiana region, the Ryan School of Irish Dance offers an exceptionally suitable and enriching opportunity to engage with a vibrant cultural tradition. Its accessible location at 4732 Sanford St in Metairie makes it a convenient choice for residents throughout the New Orleans metropolitan area, reducing travel time and making regular participation in classes a feasible and enjoyable commitment. This ease of access is a significant benefit for busy local schedules.

What truly makes the Ryan School of Irish Dance ideal for locals, however, is its profound dedication to both artistic excellence and cultural preservation. Under the guidance of renowned founder Sheila Ryan-Davoren, students receive top-tier instruction in traditional Irish step dance, learning not just the intricate steps but also the history and artistry behind this unique art form. The school's commitment to creating a "fun learning experience where life-long friendships are made" fosters a welcoming and supportive community, a key factor for families seeking a positive extracurricular environment for their children.

Furthermore, the Ryan School offers diverse pathways for engagement. Whether a student is interested in learning for recreational enjoyment, gaining confidence through performances at local festivals and events, or pursuing competitive success at "feiseanna," there's a program tailored to their aspirations. This flexibility ensures that the school caters to a wide range of interests and commitment levels. By providing opportunities to perform and compete, the school not only develops technical skill but also instills invaluable traits such as confidence, poise, sportsmanship, and determination. For any Louisiana resident looking to explore the beauty of Irish culture through dance, build strong friendships, and develop meaningful life skills in a professional yet nurturing environment, the Ryan School of Irish Dance is an undeniable local treasure and a perfect place to connect with the rich traditions of Ireland.

Ryan School of Irish Dance

4732 Sanford St, Metairie, LA 70006, USA