McDonald School of Irish Dance

- 1351 E Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152

Introduction / Overview

For anyone in Central New York with a love for rhythm, culture, and high-energy movement, the McDonald School of Irish Dance stands as a premier destination. Established in 2001, this respected school is more than just a place to learn steps; it is a vibrant community dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Irish Step dancing. Under the expert direction of Champion Dancer Amy Markwardt-Metz, T.C.R.G., the school offers a fun and healthy environment where students can develop their talents and connect with their Irish heritage. Amy, with her own Irish lineage and extensive experience as a top competitor, brings a passion for the art form that is infectious and inspiring. The school's mission is to provide students with a well-rounded dance education, focusing on core skills like proper form, technique, flexibility, and stamina, while also instilling important life lessons such as dedication, teamwork, and a positive attitude. This holistic approach ensures that students not only become better dancers but also grow as confident and disciplined individuals. The McDonald School of Irish Dance caters to all ages and skill levels, from beginners who are new to the art form to championship dancers who compete on a national and international stage. With a presence across four locations in Central New York, including the one in Skaneateles, the school has become a cornerstone of the regional Irish dance community. It is a place where a love for Irish culture is passed down through generations and where the rhythmic sounds of the hard shoes bring joy to all who participate.

Location and Accessibility

The McDonald School of Irish Dance has a key location at 1351 E Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152, making it a convenient and central spot for families throughout Central New York. This address places the school in a well-traveled area, easily accessible for residents of Skaneateles as well as those commuting from Syracuse, Auburn, and other surrounding communities. The studio is committed to ensuring that all members of the community can participate, which is why it offers a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance. This dedication to accessibility makes the school a welcoming place for everyone, regardless of their physical needs. The location on East Genesee Street is a practical choice for parents who are dropping off and picking up their children, with its clear access and a well-known address in the local area. The commitment to providing an inclusive and accessible environment is a testament to the school's overall mission of making Irish dance available and enjoyable for all who wish to learn. This focus on accessibility, combined with the school's reputation, makes it an excellent choice for New York families seeking a high-quality dance education in a practical and accommodating setting.

Services Offered

• Classes for All Ages and Levels: The school offers a wide range of classes for toddlers through adults, catering to every level from beginner to Open Championship.
• Beginner to Championship Training: A structured curriculum provides a clear path for dancers, from their first steps to qualifying for national and world competitions.
• Solo and Team Instruction: Dancers receive training in both solo routines and team dances, known as céilí dances, which fosters teamwork and camaraderie.
• Performance Opportunities: Students are given numerous opportunities to perform at local community events, including parades, Irish festivals, weddings, and gala dinners.
• Annual Feis: The school hosts its own annual feis (an Irish dance competition) in Central New York, providing a great local opportunity for dancers to compete.
• Spring Showcase: An annual spring showcase allows dancers to proudly display their skills and routines for family and friends.
• Intensive Classes and Workshops: The school provides dancers with up-to-date material and training through intensive classes and workshops, ensuring continuous growth.
• Focus on Life Lessons: In addition to dance skills, students are encouraged to acquire valuable life lessons such as dedication, a positive attitude, and teamwork.
• Community Engagement: The school's dancers are available for booking to perform at various special events throughout the region, further promoting Irish culture.

Features / Highlights

• Champion-Level Direction: The school is led by a champion dancer and certified teacher, Amy Markwardt-Metz, T.C.R.G., who has competed and placed at national and regional levels.
• Small Class Sizes: The studio strives to provide individual attention to each student by keeping class sizes relatively small, allowing for personalized feedback and guidance.
• Focus on Proper Technique and Form: A core emphasis is placed on developing strong fundamentals, including proper form, flexibility, stamina, and stage presence.
• Competitive and Non-Competitive Options: Students can choose whether to pursue a competitive dance path by participating in feisanna or simply enjoy the art form recreationally.
• Rich Cultural Experience: The school serves as a valuable resource for learning about and preserving Irish culture and heritage through the art of dance.
• Abundant Performance Opportunities: The opportunity for dancers to perform at community events, festivals, and even with professional troupes like the Trinity Irish Dance Company (as some have in the past) is a significant highlight.
• Accessible and Inclusive: With a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, the school is dedicated to providing an accommodating environment for all.

Contact Information

For more information on class schedules, enrollment, or to book a performance, you can contact the McDonald School of Irish Dance using the details below:

Address: 1351 E Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152, USA

Phone: (315) 436-9400

What is worth choosing

Choosing the McDonald School of Irish Dance is a decision to invest in a unique and enriching cultural experience that goes far beyond a typical dance class. What makes this school truly worth choosing is its blend of expert, championship-level instruction with a genuine and caring community atmosphere. Under the direction of Amy Markwardt-Metz, students receive training from someone who has not only competed at the highest levels but is also a certified and passionate teacher. The school's commitment to small class sizes ensures that every student, regardless of their skill level, receives the individual attention needed to thrive. This personalized approach is a key differentiator in the Central New York dance scene. Furthermore, the school offers a perfect balance for all aspirations. Whether a dancer wants to compete at the World Championships or simply perform at a local parade, the McDonald School of Irish Dance provides the opportunities and support to help them achieve their goals. The focus on developing life skills such as teamwork and dedication, alongside physical fitness and motor skills, makes the experience a truly holistic one. The numerous performance opportunities at community events also provide students with a chance to build confidence and share their passion with others. For New York families seeking a dance school that provides a high-quality, professional, and culturally rich education in a supportive and inclusive environment, the McDonald School of Irish Dance is an unparalleled choice. It is a place where your child can grow as a dancer, connect with their heritage, and create wonderful, lasting memories.

McDonald School of Irish Dance

1351 E Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152, USA