About the Class
Championship division is the serious side of competitive Irish Dancing. All professional Irish dancers that appear in shows like Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, Rhythms of Ireland and Celtic Illusion for example, were championship dancers from around the globe.
Behind the sparkly costumes, tan (and curly wigs for the girls), championship dancers train intensely and practice to perfect 3 solo dances for the year of competition in their age group. You can expect to clear some shelves in your house for medals, trophies, belts, plaques, sashes, teddys and even perpetual tiaras to display the dancer’s rewards for their hard work!
Dancers have the opportunity to compete at a state, national and international level in both solo and teams divisions, subject to qualification and financial means for travel. Students continue to participate in their dance exams, local competitions, and are well respected at public performances.
Championship level dancers develop stamina, mental resilience, comradery and good sportsmanship as they navigate the excitement and disappointment of competitive sport. Virtues that can be applied to dancing professionally or in other fields of employment and general life experiences.
Older students are invited to assist in teaching younger classes giving them the chance to mentor as well as an opportunity to choreograph performance pieces.
Students in the championship program are required to attend the 2 classes per week and are encouraged to attend private lessons to hone their dance skills and focus.
Classes run for 2 hrs each for both solo and teams during SA school terms on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
Private lessons are available for booking in 30min time slots and run Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
These classes are held at our main hall in Clarence Gardens.
Check the schedule for times.
See below for more details and hit the enquire button and enrol your aspiring dancer in their free trial lesson today!
Class Divisions
Junior Champ.
Teacher discretion is applicable for a dancer to qualify for Championship and may vary due to class structure and experience level of the dancer. As a minimum, dancers must have completed 1 year in Level 3, Soft Shoe and Hard Shoe to able to become a Jnr Champ dancer. Students up to 12yrs will usually be in this class.
Senior Champ.
Teacher discretion is applicable for a dancer to qualify for Senior Championship and may vary due to class structure and experience level of the dancer. Students in Snr Champ classes are 13yrs and older. Any new dancer to Championship regardless of age must complete 1 year in Jnr Champ.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are available to Championship dancers only and are booked in advance, subject to availability. Priority is given to repeat time session bookings if booked in blocks, otherwise it is a "first in best dressed" arrangement. Private lessons are charged separately to term fees on a half hourly basis.
These classes are not compulsory, but are highly recommended.
Duration
2hrs
Location
Clarence Gardens Masonic Hall, Avenue Road, Clarence Gardens SA, Australia
Term Fees
2 classes per week: $330 per term
Private Lesson: $30 each
* Term fees are per SA school term duration
* Discounts apply for multiple family members enrolled in any class
* One off annual administration fee is $35 per student
* Missed classes will not be refunded