About
Why families choose McNamara McCarthy
At McNamara McCarthy, we believe Irish dance should be a place where every child feels supported, challenged, and proud of their progress. Families choose our school because we focus on more than just steps — we focus on helping dancers grow into confident, resilient young people.
Our dancers learn in a positive and encouraging environment where teamwork, discipline, and joy are part of every class. From beginners taking their first steps to dancers competing on the world stage, each student is guided with care and high-quality instruction from experienced teachers who truly love what they do.
What truly sets McNamara McCarthy apart is the community we’ve built.
Our dancers form strong friendships, celebrate each other’s successes, and grow together through shared experiences both on and off the dance floor.
Our goal is simple
We want every dancer to feel proud, supported, and excited to come to class each week.
We celebrate effort, teamwork, and progress at every level. Our dancers learn that hard work and kindness go hand in hand, and that success is something we build together as a community.
Whether a dancer dreams of performing, competing, or simply dancing for the joy of it, we are here to guide them every step of the way.
Frequently asked questions
What should I expect my first year?
Starting something new can feel exciting and a little uncertain — for both dancers and parents. At McNamara McCarthy, we work hard to make every new dancer feel welcomed, supported, and excited from the very first class.
Most new dancers begin in a beginner class where they learn the foundational movements of Irish dance in a positive and encouraging environment.
During their first year, dancers build rhythm, coordination, and confidence while making new friends and discovering the joy of Irish dance.
Is Irish dance right for my child?
Irish dance is a wonderful activity for children who enjoy music, movement, and learning new skills. It helps build coordination, confidence, discipline, and resilience — all while having fun and making friends.
Many dancers begin with no prior experience, and new dancers are welcome up to age 12.
The best way to know if Irish dance is right for your child is to try a class.
Does my dancer have to compete and perform?
They do not have to, but most do! You don't have to make any decisions about competitions or performances until your dancer has been dancing for a few months.
When/how does my dancer get shoes?
Irish dance soft shoes (ghillies) are the shoes our Mini and Beginner level dancers wear. We have used shoes that our families sell within the school that usually range from $15-$35. A new pair is around $70. We will have an opportunity for you to purchase shoes early in the fall.
How much do costumes cost?
If a dancer wants to perform and/or compete they are required to wear a costume. We will have a costume sale in December and dancers will be fitted for a used costume or measured for a new one if we don't have a used one that fits. Minis costumes cost around $100. Beginner costumes cost $250 and dancers wear them for all performances and competitions for at least two years.
What if my dancer decides after a few months that he/she is not interested?
You are not committed to the full year's payment if your dancer decides to stop. We require a 30 day written notice for withdrawing from the school. You would be responsible for any tuition payment that falls within that 30 day window, after which payments will stop.