Irish Dance Academy-Alaska

Irish Dance Academy of Alaska was founded in 1997 as a non-profit youth organization to foster the love of Irish dance, culture, and tradition. Based at 4105 E Turnagain Boulevard, the academy welcomes children age 5 to 18 and teaches Irish dance to students ranging from complete beginners through to competition level.

The academy offers Intro to Irish Dance classes, which meet twice a week for 45-minute lessons. As dancers progress, longer classes and additional practices become available. The academy is affiliated with An Daire school of Irish Dance, and dancers have the option to compete through this affiliation, though participation in competition is entirely optional. Many students choose to dance for recreation only.

Class days follow the Anchorage School District calendar. All dancers are encouraged to practice at home between classes. To support learning outside the studio, the academy provides access to an online library of instructional videos that students can use throughout the season. If a student misses a class, they may arrange a make-up session with Ms. Miriam or use the video library to practice independently.

New students are accepted year-round in Intro classes, with recruitment pushes at the start of spring and fall semesters. The academy is partially funded by The Atwood Foundation, Alaska Community Foundation, Cook Inlet Lending Center, and contributions from dance families.

Intro students attend two 45-minute classes per week. In your first month, you can wear ballet slippers, jazz shoes, or sneakers; after that, appropriate Irish dance shoes are required. Wear black shorts, a black t-shirt or tank top, white socks, and bring a water bottle.

Ms. Miriam oversees class scheduling and make-up arrangements.

The academy welcomes beginners age 5 and up, with soft shoes costing around $50 new or available used.