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WHO WE ARE

The District Irish Dance Experience

At District Irish Dance, we combine athleticism, artistry, discipline, performance, and tradition in a way unlike any other activity. Rooted in Irish culture and energized by modern performance influences, our program helps dancers build confidence, friendships, and skills that extend far beyond the studio.

Whether dancers join for recreation, performance opportunities, or elite competitive training, every student is supported through a welcoming and high-level learning experience designed to help them grow at every stage.

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The District Difference

Our program is built around three core pillars that shape the experience for every dancer.

01

Technique

Dancers receive thoughtful, level-appropriate instruction that develops strength, coordination, musicality, confidence, and technical excellence over time.

02

Teamwork

We believe dancers thrive in a supportive community. Our classes encourage leadership, encouragement, collaboration, and friendships that continue beyond the studio.

03

Tradition

Rooted in the rich heritage of Irish dance and culture, our programs celebrate Irish music and dance while embracing creativity, artistry, and modern performance opportunities.

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MEET THE DISTRICT TEAM

Learn from Industry Professionals

District’s instructional team includes certified Irish dance instructors and former cast members from internationally recognized productions including Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, and Trinity Irish Dance Company.

Joe Duffey, TCRG

Joe Duffey, TCRG

Founder, Owner & Creative Director

Elyse Transon, ADCRG

Elyse Transon, ADCRG

Certified Instructor, Workshop Choreographer

Mark Chichester

Mark Chichester

Workshop Choreographer

Jessie Millar

Jessie Millar

Guest Instructor, Studio Manager-On-Duty

Kendal Griffler, TCRG

Kendal Griffler, TCRG

General Manager, Certified Instructor, Head of Marketing + Outreach

Moira Ragen, TCRG

Moira Ragen, TCRG

Certified Instructor, Beginner Program Coordinator

Sarah Tully

Sarah Tully

Assistant Instructor

Bernadette Devereaux, TCRG

Bernadette Devereaux, TCRG

Certified Instructor

Stephen Brennan, TCRG

Stephen Brennan, TCRG

Certified Instructor, Workshop Choreographer

Kat Olrick

Kat Olrick

Assistant Instructor

A Program Designed for Every Dancer

Our program is built around three core pillars that shape the experience for every dancer.

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For Kids

Our youth programs encourage creativity, friendships, and a lifelong love of movement in a supportive environment.

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For Teens

Teen dancers develop discipline, resilience, and confidence in opportunities that support growth on and off the stage.

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For Adults

Classes combine fitness, musicality, and traditional Irish dance in a fun and encouraging atmosphere for all levels.

District Irish Dance Academy was founded with a vision to bring world-class Irish dance training to the Washington, DC community, blending deep respect for tradition with a fresh, innovative approach to instruction. Rooted in the heart of DC, the academy reflects a strong local connection while offering students access to an internationally informed dance education.

 

Led by a highly credentialed team of instructors, District Irish Dance brings together decades of professional performance and teaching experience. The faculty includes artists who have toured globally with iconic productions such as Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, and who have performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including London’s West End and Broadway. Most recently, members of the District Irish Dance team were honored to perform at the U.S. Capitol for President Biden at the 2024 Friends of Ireland Luncheon, followed by a private reception with the President at the White House.

This depth of experience translates directly into the studio, where students benefit from expert, forward-thinking instruction in a supportive and inspiring environment. Whether dancers are pursuing recreational enjoyment, competitive success, or pre-professional pathways, District Irish Dance provides the training, mentorship, and community to help each student grow, achieve, and excel.

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Irish Dance Teachers Association of North America
CLRG - The Irish Dancing Commission
Southern Region Irish Dance IDTANA

A Community That Grows Together

At District Irish Dance, dancers become part of a supportive community that celebrates growth, hard work, creativity, and connection. From first-time beginners to experienced performers, every dancer has a place here.

Our Partners

We proudly support our local DC community through meaningful partnerships and creative collaborations with organizations and small businesses. Interested in collaborating?  Get in touch!

Students that find themselves studying the craft of Irish dance under Joe’s expert guidance are lucky indeed. They will learn traditional Irish dance from a master, with a deep understanding of timing, rhythm and style combined with the a knowledge of the mechanics of the body and the importance of a strong “Celtic” core.  Needless to say Joe is an inspiration in the world of Irish dance.

Tony and Sheila D.

Directors of CRC Irish Dance Camps

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