F.A.Q.
Can my child try out a class for free to see if they enjoy Irish dance?
Yes! Take a tour of our studio, meet members of our teaching staff, try out a class in-progress, and get jiggin’! This is a great way to learn a little more about our program and get a feel for the community. Contact Ms. Emma at 770-500-0301 or info@burkeconnolly.com to set up a date and time for the fun to begin!
When are beginner Irish dance classes offered?
Our beginner classes are broken down by age. Our Little Tots (ages 3-4) schedule is HERE. Beginners ages 5-6 and Beginners Ages 7&Up schedules are HERE. Beginner Adult schedule is HERE.
What should a dancer wear to their first class?
We have a uniform for all classes. For the first Irish dance class, students can wear shorts and a fitted tank top or t-shirt. You do NOT need shoes for your first class-socks or old ballet slippers are perfect- you will be fitted for shoes in the first two weeks of class.
Registered students receive a FREE “reels & jigs” shirt at their first class which they should wear to class each week with black shorts. lf you would like to also purchase uniform items, our school Spirit Store (HERE) opens regularly throughout the year for orders. They are shipped to the studio and you can pick them up at class.
What is a good age to start Irish dancing?
For our children beginner classes, we accept students from 3 years old and up. No prior dance experience is necessary. Our Adult dancers range from mid 20s - late 50s. Some with no prior dance experience, and others with years of Irish dance from childhood.
Can I start at any time during the year?
Our beginner classes fill up quickly! We recommend registering before a session begins, but feel free to email us mid-session, and we will gladly check to see if we have any openings. Contact Ms. Emma at 770-500-0301 or info@burkeconnolly.com
More advanced students are also accepted throughout the year. However, we generally do not accept Champion Irish dancer transfers September - December.
How much are classes? Do you offer a family discount?
Tuition for our Little Tots (ages 3-4) class is HERE. Beginners ages 5-6 and Beginners Ages 7&Up tuition information is HERE. Beginner Adult tuition is HERE. Please contact us for the tuition costs for more advanced students.
We offer a 10% discount for families with more than 1 student enrolled.
Do I have to be Irish to take lessons and perform?
No! Irish dancing has become a multi-cultural sport with dancers from all types of backgrounds. There are competitions and schools all over the world, including Mexico, South Africa, and Hong Kong, among many others.
Do I need to wear a curly wig?
No. Curly hair is traditional to Irish dance because Irish woman would curl their hair for church and then attend an Irish festival where they would dance. We encourage our dancers to keep the traditional look for performances. Most students do opt for a wig for sake of ease, but a wig is not required.
Am I required to purchase lots of Costumes?
One of the BEST things about Irish dance is that families do not have to buy multiple costumes every year. In fact, until you feel you child is committed, you do not have to purchase a costume. Simply wearing their FREE Spirit Tee they received at class on day 1 with black bottoms, or dressing in all black are perfect until you decide to get a costume. Even better, when you are ready for a costume, we have a used costume sale every fall, and even if you buy new, the costume are made with plenty of room to grow!
Does my child have to compete?
They do not, but it is encouraged! Our dancers are world-class: our teams and soloists rank in the top of Regional, National, and World Irish Dance Championships! In addition to competing, our school also has a robust performance program! We perform at dozens of shows and festivals throughout the year in Atlanta and provide opportunities for students of all levels to participate. You get to pick the participation level that is right your your family!
Are there opportunities for social events outside of dance class?
Yes! We have various parties throughout the year, attend local Atlanta Feiseanna (competitions), we walk in the St. Patrick’s Day parade, have parade float “build-out”day, have loads of performances at local festivals and events, including the Atlanta Dogwood Festival and Summer Camp as well as lots of fun Burke Connolly Parties for kids AND parents!
Can I make up a missed class?
Yes. Please let us know when you plan to miss a class and we can give you options for a make-up class.