Trinity Academy of Irish Dance

Introduction / Overview

For over four decades, Trinity Academy of Irish Dance has stood as a global leader in Irish dance, shaping the lives of thousands of students across Illinois and beyond. Far more than just a dance school, Trinity is a vibrant community built on a powerful philosophy that transcends typical programs: "to elevate children, the community, and the world through the power and grace of Irish dance." Founded by the visionary Mark Howard in 1982, Trinity has not only set numerous competitive records, including America's first world championship team title in 1987, but has also thrilled audiences worldwide with its innovative approach to this ancient art form. The "Trinity Method" is a unique, balanced approach centered around solo dancing, team dancing, and performance, allowing dancers to progress at their own pace with "gentle encouragement and ultimate inclusion." This commitment ensures that while striving for excellence, the emphasis remains on the journey rather than just the result, celebrating dance and competition for the sheer joy of it. Whether you're a parent looking to introduce your child to a rich cultural tradition, or an adult seeking a unique and engaging physical activity, Trinity Academy of Irish Dance offers an unparalleled experience rooted in community, confidence, and artistic expression for all of Illinois.

Location and Accessibility

Trinity Academy of Irish Dance's main Chicago location is at 2936 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, USA. Situated in the vibrant Lakeview neighborhood, this studio offers excellent accessibility for families throughout Illinois, especially those within Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. Southport Avenue is a well-known street, making the studio relatively easy to locate. As is common in bustling urban areas, street parking in Lakeview can be competitive, so it's always advisable for visitors to allow ample time to find a spot before classes or events. However, the studio benefits significantly from its proximity to Chicago's robust public transportation system. The CTA Brown Line (Southport station) is within comfortable walking distance, providing convenient access from various parts of the city. Additionally, numerous CTA bus routes serve the Lakeview area, ensuring that dancers and their families relying on public transit can easily reach the academy. Trinity also has multiple studio locations in other Illinois suburbs (such as Elmhurst, Palatine, Western Springs) and even in Wisconsin, offering flexibility and convenience for families across the wider region. This central Chicago location, combined with accessible public transit options, makes Trinity Academy of Irish Dance a practical and desirable choice for consistent attendance for the Illinois community.

Services Offered

• Weekly Irish Dance Classes: Comprehensive instruction in traditional Irish step dance for various age groups and skill levels.
• River Program (Ages 3½ – 5 Years Old): Specifically designed for younger children, providing a fun, energetic environment to learn Irish dance fundamentals, incorporating stretching, balance, and coordination exercises. Enrollment is year-round.
• Cork/Derry Program (Ages 5 – 12 Years Old): Introduces Irish dance, history, and culture in a fun, encouraging, and supportive environment. Dancers learn the Irish Jig and Reel, basic technique, and routines for stretching and strengthening. Fall enrollment is recommended, but other options are available year-round.
• Advanced Levels: Progressive curriculum for experienced dancers, developing advanced technique for solo and team dancing.
• Free Trial Classes: An opportunity for prospective students to experience a class and the studio environment before committing to enrollment.
• Dance Camps: Seasonal camps, including summer options, for immersive Irish dance experiences.
• Performance Opportunities (Trinity Performance Troupe - TPT): An additional weekly class (January through March) for children who wish to perform at St. Patrick's Day shows and various community events. This class has an additional fee and requires a costume purchase.
• Solo Dancing: Training focused on individual technique and competitive solo routines.
• Team Dancing: Emphasis on synchronized group choreography, a hallmark of competitive Irish dance.
• Cultural Immersion: Classes integrate Irish dance history and culture, connecting students with their heritage and teaching Gaelic terms, reinforcing the cultural significance of the dance.

Features / Highlights

• Globally Recognized Program: Trinity Academy of Irish Dance is renowned as "the most recognized Irish Dance program in the world." Its competitive success, including America's first world championship team title, speaks to the high caliber of instruction and talent.
• The Trinity Method - Balanced Approach: This unique philosophy centers on a three-part balance of solo dancing, team dancing, and performance. It empowers students by enhancing their technical skills while also teaching invaluable life lessons, emphasizing the journey over just the result.
• Professional and Patient Instruction: Reviewers praise the "very professional" teaching method and the instructors' ability to provide "gentle encouragement." They allow dancers to "progress at their own pace with ultimate inclusion," ensuring a supportive learning environment.
• Comprehensive Age-Specific Programs: From the "River Program" (ages 3½-5) designed for young children to "Cork/Derry" (ages 5-12) and advanced levels, the curriculum is tailored to developmental stages, making Irish dance accessible and engaging for all ages.
• Cultural Education: Beyond just steps, Trinity connects students with Irish culture and history, teaching about different parts of Ireland and incorporating Gaelic terms, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art form.
• Extensive Performance Opportunities: Trinity dancers are incredibly active in the community, performing "more shows than there are days in the year" at local festivals, senior centers, parades (especially for St. Patrick's Day), and have even appeared on national television shows like "The Tonight Show" and "Conan."
• Focus on Life Skills: The academy's mission extends to building confidence, cultivating leadership skills, and teaching children to "support and encourage their peers," fostering well-rounded individuals.
• Experienced Leadership: Founded by Mark Howard, an Emmy Award-winning choreographer and a pioneer in progressive Irish dance, the academy benefits from decades of innovative vision and a commitment to excellence.

Contact Information

For Illinois families interested in exploring the world of Irish dance, Trinity Academy of Irish Dance's main Chicago location is at 2936 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, USA. You can contact them directly via phone at (877) 326-2328. For those preferring mobile communication, the number is +1 877-326-2328. For detailed information on their various programs (River, Cork/Derry, advanced levels), class schedules, registration, free trial classes, and performance opportunities, it is highly recommended to visit their official website, www.trinityirishdance.com, or send an email inquiry to info@trinityirishdance.com.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For families and individuals across Illinois, Trinity Academy of Irish Dance in Chicago stands out as an exceptional and uniquely suitable destination for embracing the art and culture of Irish dance. Its decades-long reputation as "the most recognized Irish Dance program in the world" ensures a level of instruction and program quality that is unparalleled. What makes it particularly valuable for locals is its balanced "Trinity Method," which fosters genuine skill development through solo, team, and performance opportunities, all within a nurturing environment. Dancers are encouraged to "progress at their own pace with gentle encouragement," ensuring that learning is inclusive and joyful, not just about competition. The academy goes beyond steps, deeply integrating Irish history and culture into its curriculum, allowing students to connect with their heritage and broaden their understanding. Furthermore, the extensive performance opportunities, from local St. Patrick's Day parades to national television appearances, provide invaluable experiences for building confidence and showcasing talent. For parents seeking a program that prioritizes holistic child development—teaching not just dance technique but also teamwork, self-esteem, and cultural appreciation—Trinity Academy of Irish Dance offers a truly comprehensive and enriching experience, making it a beloved institution for the Illinois community.

Trinity Academy of Irish Dance

2936 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, USA