The Francis Academy of Irish Dance
Irish dance classes in Syracuse, from beginners to competitive level
An Irish dance school teaching traditional Irish step dancing, céilí, and sean-nós styles.
Photo: The Francis Academy of Irish Dance via Google
Before your first class
The studio welcomes students of all backgrounds and abilities, whether they have ambitions to compete or simply want to dance for fun.
About this studio
The Francis Academy of Irish Dance is located in Tipperary Hill in Syracuse, NY, on the corner of the green-on-top traffic light. Founded in 2009 by Molly Francis-Lutwin, the academy offers traditional Irish dancing to students of all ages and backgrounds. The studio operates as a positive environment where students feel supported, nurtured and motivated to improve.
The academy's programme is designed to challenge each dancer to achieve his or her personal best, both on and off the dance floor. Whether your child has ambitions to compete in Irish dance, perform publicly, or simply to dance for the fun of it, the academy aims to help you and your child reach their goals. Students develop concentration skills, coordination and self confidence that will serve them well in all facets of life. For the Irish-American family, dance is a great way to stay connected to one's heritage; Irish dance offers tremendous opportunities for all students, regardless of culture or ethnic background.
The teaching staff brings extensive competitive and professional experience. Molly Francis-Lutwin, the owner and operator, holds internationally recognized TCRG and ADCRG certifications and has competed for over 15 years in solo and ceili competitions all over North America, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. Katie McCarthy, TCRG, began dancing at age 7 and competed at local, national, and world levels for 15 years before earning her TCRG certification in 2002; she also holds a Masters Degree in Elementary Education and is a certified group fitness instructor. Aine McIntyre, TCRG (certified 2025), competed at the world level for over 15 years and finished her competitive career earning top 5 at both the national and regional level as well as recalling at the worlds; she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Manhattan University with a Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science/Pre-PT. Ronan Kelly, a choreographer and workshop teacher, danced competitively for 12 years at regional, national and international level, winning 5 World Championship titles in CLRG competitions; he graduated from University of Limerick as a Physiotherapist and is currently a troupe member of Riverdance touring all over the world. Assistant instructors Aydan Chavis and Kelly Francis-Carroll both bring significant competitive experience at local, national, and world level.
The academy also offers show booking for events, allowing you to bring Irish dance performance to your celebration or gathering. The studio is designated as 2025 Oireachtas Champions.
What to expect
Your first visit
You'll find a studio designed to support dancers at every level, from those dancing purely for enjoyment to those training for competition. The teaching approach emphasises building confidence and concentration alongside technique.
Instructors
Who teaches here
The academy is led by Molly Francis-Lutwin (ADCRG, TCRG), founder and owner, with teaching staff including Katie McCarthy (TCRG), Aine McIntyre (TCRG), and assistant instructors Aydan Chavis and Kelly Francis-Carroll. Guest instruction is provided by Ronan Kelly, a Riverdance troupe member and five-time World Championship title holder.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
The studio welcomes students of all backgrounds and abilities, whether they have ambitions to compete or simply want to dance for fun.
Studio history
The Francis Academy of Irish Dance was founded in 2009 by Molly Francis-Lutwin, who trained under Ann Johnston at the Johnston School of Irish Dance and has competed internationally for over 15 years.
Styles offered
4 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
The Francis Academy of Irish Dancehasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own The Francis Academy of Irish Dance, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about The Francis Academy of Irish Dance
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does The Francis Academy of Irish Dance teach?
The Francis Academy of Irish Dance teaches General, Irish dance (ceili competitions), Irish dance (solo competitions), Irish dance (recreational). The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is The Francis Academy of Irish Dance located?
The Francis Academy of Irish Dance is located in Syracuse, NY. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does The Francis Academy of Irish Dance offer private lessons?
Contact The Francis Academy of Irish Dance directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does The Francis Academy of Irish Dance teach kids and adults?
The Francis Academy of Irish Dance welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at The Francis Academy of Irish Dance?
The fastest path is to visit The Francis Academy of Irish Dance via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.