FAQs

What class options are available at Inis Cairde for new beginning children?
Our beginners are split by age. We offer classes specifically for three-year-olds, four-year-olds, five- and six-year olds, and children age seven and up. Please see our Children’s Classes page for a more complete description of what we offer for beginning children.

Is my child too old to begin Irish dancing?
We welcome beginners of all ages, and believe that anyone who loves Irish dancing can have a rewarding experience in the sport, regardless of age. Please contact our office directly for assistance on placing your child in the appropriate beginning class.

Do boys take Irish dancing?
Yes they do, and we are happy to have them! Many of the boys who have come through our program in both the children’s and adult classes have enjoyed considerable competitive success, and all have made great friendships here as well.

Is it okay if my child has never taken any other type of dance before?
That is fine, and in fact, it’s expected. Inis Cairde runs like any other dance studio in that we expect our beginners to be brand new not just to Irish dancing, but to dancing in general.

What if my child has experience in another type of dance, should she still start in Beginning?
Experience in any type of dance is valuable background, but if your child is new to specifically Irish dancing, then she should start in a beginning level class. If at some point we need to reevaluate her class placement, we can do so.
 

Do all Inis Cairde students participate in Irish dancing competitions?
No. The choice to compete is up to each family, and we respect that choice. While we have many dancers who compete annually at the Regional, National and World level, we have many lovely dancers who take class just for the pure enjoyment of honing their dancing skills.

Do all Inis Cairde students perform?
Many choose to perform as an outlet to show off their progress in class, but again, no one is required to participate anything outside of class. For those who are interested in performing in the community, Inis Cairde dancers perform monthly at Tir na nOg Irish pub in downtown Raleigh, and year-round at festivals, retirement homes, schools, and private functions. We also put on a large recital every other year at the Progress Energy Center. Every one of those events is optional.

Will we need to purchase dancing shoes?
We recommend that new beginning students take at least one month of class before purchasing shoes. At our studio, we have a large inventory of used dancing shoes for sale, and we do stock brand new shoes as well. We hold a large shoe and costume sale in the end of August annually, and would be happy to help fit your dancer for shoes at any time of the year by appointment.

What is our obligation once we register, do we have to stay for the whole year?

Students can stop at any time. Our calendar is based on a 40-week year, for which most people choose to pay in ten installments of four classes apiece. Your child can stop at the end of any four-week installment. As a courtesy, we ask that you let us know in writing ahead of time if your dancer does not want to continue.