O’Shea-Chaplin Academy of Irish Dance

- 105 Rumford Ave, Auburndale, MA 02466

The O’Shea-Chaplin Academy of Irish Dance is a true local institution with a storied history, serving the Massachusetts community for over 70 years. Started by Director Rita O'Shea in Galway, Ireland, in the 1950s, the school has been a cherished part of the Boston area's cultural landscape ever since. The mission of the academy is to pass on not only the steps of modern and traditional Irish dance but also a deep love for Irish culture, traditions, and heritage to the next generation. The academy is well-known for its fun and family-like atmosphere, where every dancer is treated as an individual. From young children just starting their journey to championship-level performers, the O’Shea-Chaplin Academy is committed to helping each student become the best dancer they can be, while making friends and having fun along the way.

This academy is much more than a dance studio; it is a community where lifelong friendships are formed and a passion for the art form is ignited. The teachers are all certified and are actively involved in regional, national, and international committees, ensuring that the instruction is of the highest quality. The school’s legacy is impressive, with a history of dancers who have won solo and team titles at regional, national, and even World Championships. This success is balanced by a strong focus on non-competitive events and community engagement. Students have performed at iconic venues across New England, including Fenway Park, Faneuil Hall, and the State House, providing them with invaluable experience and a chance to share their love of dance with a wide audience.

Located at 105 Rumford Avenue in Auburndale, Massachusetts, the O’Shea-Chaplin Academy of Irish Dance is a central and easily accessible location for families in the Newton area and beyond. Auburndale is a part of Newton, and its location provides a convenient base for a school that serves the greater Boston metropolitan area.

The academy's accessibility is a key feature, as it offers a wheelchair-accessible car park. This thoughtful amenity ensures that the studio is welcoming and open to everyone in the community, removing potential barriers for individuals with mobility challenges. The location is also practical for busy families, as its presence in a residential-commercial area allows for simple drop-offs and pickups. While the main address is in Auburndale, the O’Shea-Chaplin Academy also holds classes at satellite locations, which further enhances its accessibility to students in different parts of Massachusetts. This commitment to meeting families where they are demonstrates a dedication to convenience and inclusivity.

Services Offered

• Traditional & Modern Irish Dance: Classes for boys and girls aged 4 and up, from beginner to championship level.
• Small Classes: A focus on small class sizes to ensure each dancer receives individual attention.
• Dance Workshops: Specialized sessions designed to enhance specific skills and techniques.
• Summer Camps: Intensive and fun programs offered during the summer break.
• Feis (Competition) Preparation: The academy prepares dancers for school-run competitions, as well as regional, national, and international championships.
• Non-Competitive Events: Provides opportunities for dancers to perform at ceilis (Irish dance parties), clinics, and grade exams.
• Performance Opportunities: Dancers perform at a variety of local events, festivals, concerts, and parades.

Features & Highlights

• Rich Heritage: The academy has been operating for over 70 years, passing on a deep love of Irish culture and traditions.
• Family-Like Atmosphere: Known for creating a fun, supportive, and welcoming environment for all dancers.
• Competitive Success: A track record of producing champion dancers who have won titles at all levels, from local feiseanna to the World Championships.
• Professional Alumni Network: Several former students have gone on to dance professionally in world-renowned shows like Riverdance and Lord of the Dance.
• Small Class Sizes: Ensures personalized attention and effective training for every student.
• Wheelchair-Accessible Car Park: A key feature that makes the academy inclusive and easy to visit for everyone.
• Good for Kids: The curriculum and atmosphere are specifically designed to be positive and beneficial for children.
• Community Engagement: The academy regularly performs at local events, giving back to the community that supports it.

Contact Information

Address: 105 Rumford Ave, Auburndale, MA 02466, USA

Phone: (781) 662-2191

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing the O’Shea-Chaplin Academy of Irish Dance is a decision to become part of a legacy that combines deep tradition with a modern, supportive approach. What makes this studio truly worth choosing is its incredible history and a proven track record of excellence. For over 70 years, the academy has been shaping not just dancers, but well-rounded individuals who appreciate Irish culture and history. Its focus on small class sizes ensures that every student, regardless of their skill level, receives the individual attention they need to succeed. This personalized approach is a significant factor in the success of its competitive dancers and the overall happiness of its recreational students.

The academy's dual commitment to both competitive achievement and community involvement is a huge benefit for families in Massachusetts. Students have the opportunity to pursue the highest levels of competitive dance, but they also get to experience the joy of performing at local events and being part of a close-knit dance family. The fact that the academy is "good for kids" and offers a wheelchair-accessible car park further highlights its commitment to inclusivity and convenience for all. For anyone in the greater Boston area looking for a dance school that offers a rich cultural experience, professional training, and a warm, family-oriented atmosphere, the O’Shea-Chaplin Academy of Irish Dance is a clear and exceptional choice. It’s a place where a love for dance and a connection to heritage are nurtured for a lifetime.

O’Shea-Chaplin Academy of Irish Dance

105 Rumford Ave, Auburndale, MA 02466, USA