Burke School of Irish Dance Youngstown

- 3155 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511

For families in Youngstown, Ohio, and the Mahoning Valley, the Burke School of Irish Dance represents more than just a place to take a class; it is a cherished institution with a rich history and a strong community. As one of the oldest and most respected Irish dance schools in the country, the Burke School has been a beacon for Irish heritage in the region since it was founded. The school offers a unique opportunity for children to learn the intricate steps and rhythms of traditional Irish dancing, all while becoming part of a welcoming and supportive family. It is a place where friendships are formed, confidence is built, and a love for a vibrant cultural art form is instilled in every student.

The Burke School of Irish Dance has a long and proud tradition in Youngstown. The school was originally founded by Theresa "Tessie" Burke, an American-born woman who was the first to be certified as a step dancing teacher by the Irish Dance Commission in Dublin. Following in her father's footsteps, who opened the first Irish step dance school in Cleveland in 1942, Tessie established the Youngstown school in 1966. For decades, the school has been dedicated to preserving Irish culture through dance, and its commitment to excellence is well-known. Dancers from the Burke School have achieved superior levels of skill, with some qualifying for regional, national, and even World Championships. This history of success, combined with the friendly and familial atmosphere, makes it a top choice for parents seeking a high-quality, community-oriented activity for their children.

The core philosophy of the Burke School of Irish Dance is to instill a love of Irish dance and culture in all of its students. This mission is carried out through dedicated instruction that teaches not only the technical aspects of the dance but also the importance of self-esteem and the value of hard work. The families at the school are often described as friendly and welcoming, creating an environment where newcomers are immediately made to feel at home. This community spirit, combined with the long tradition of Irish dance in Youngstown, makes the Burke School a special place to learn and grow, connecting students with a rich heritage and a supportive network of peers and mentors.

The Burke School of Irish Dance Youngstown is located at 3155 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511, USA. This accessible address places it in a convenient location for families in Youngstown and the surrounding Ohio communities. The school’s commitment to accessibility is evident through its wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that all visitors can navigate the premises with ease. This thoughtful feature is part of the school’s overall philosophy of being a welcoming and inclusive place for everyone in the community. The studio’s location on Canfield Road, a main thoroughfare, also makes it a familiar and straightforward destination for parents traveling from various parts of the city. This ease of access contributes to a more convenient experience for families, allowing them to focus on the joy of Irish dance rather than the logistics of getting to and from class.

Services Offered

• Irish Step Dancing Classes: The school's primary service is providing instruction in traditional Irish step dancing for students of all ages and skill levels.
• Beginner Classes: New students are welcomed with classes specifically designed to introduce them to the fundamentals of Irish dance in a fun and supportive manner.
• Advanced Training: For experienced dancers, the school offers advanced training that prepares them for competitions at the local, regional, national, and international levels.
• Performance Opportunities: The Burke School participates in numerous community performances and showcases, including an annual "Green Season" kickoff event to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. These events give students a chance to perform and share their love of Irish dance with the community.
• Competition Preparation: The school provides dedicated training and support for dancers who wish to compete in feisianna (Irish dance competitions).
• Cultural and Community Events: The school's involvement in local cultural events helps students connect with their Irish heritage and become part of a larger, vibrant community.

Features / Highlights

• Long-Standing Tradition: The school has a history dating back to 1966 in Youngstown, making it a place with deep roots and a well-established reputation for excellence in Irish dance.
• Friendly and Familial Environment: The school is praised for its welcoming community, where "friendly families" create a supportive atmosphere for both new and long-time members.
• Commitment to Children: The Burke School is noted as being "good for kids," indicating that the programs and teaching methods are well-suited for young dancers.
• Legacy of Excellence: The school has a track record of producing dancers who have achieved top placements in competitions and have gone on to have successful careers in dance.
• Accessibility: The wheelchair-accessible car park is a key feature that ensures the school is open and convenient for everyone in the community.
• Cultural Preservation: The school is dedicated to preserving Irish heritage through dance, providing a meaningful and educational experience for its students.

Contact Information

Address: 3155 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511, USA

Contact for Youngstown: Lisa Devlin, +1 (330) 207-6980

What is worth choosing

For parents in the Ohio region, particularly those in Youngstown, who are looking for a unique and enriching extracurricular activity for their children, the Burke School of Irish Dance is an exceptional choice. The most compelling reason to choose this school is its rich history and long tradition of excellence. Having been a part of the Youngstown community since 1966, the Burke School has a proven track record of not only teaching Irish dance but also of fostering a love for the culture and heritage behind it. This deep-rooted connection to the local community and Irish culture provides students with a sense of belonging and purpose that goes beyond a typical dance class.

Another significant factor is the school's renowned sense of community. The positive feedback from a current family highlights the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, which is invaluable for children who are trying something new. In this environment, students are able to form fast friendships and feel supported by their peers and the broader community of families. The school's reputation as being "good for kids" reinforces the idea that it is a safe and nurturing space where young people can grow in confidence and skill. The accessibility of the facility, with a wheelchair-accessible car park, also demonstrates a commitment to being an inclusive and open place for all.

Furthermore, the Burke School offers more than just classes. It provides a full experience that includes performance opportunities at local events and preparation for competitive dancing. This dual focus allows students to choose their level of involvement, whether they want to dance for fun and community engagement or train to become a champion. By choosing the Burke School of Irish Dance, families in Youngstown are not just enrolling their child in a class; they are connecting them with a long and proud tradition, a supportive community, and an art form that will enrich their lives for years to come.

Burke School of Irish Dance Youngstown

3155 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511, USA