The Joan Denise Moriarty School of Dance in Cork is a renowned dance school offering a wide range of classes for all ages and levels. The school believes in the power of dance as a form of silent poetry, allowing students to express themselves through movement.
Ballet classes at the school focus on improving posture, flexibility, alignment and strength, providing students with a solid foundation of technique. With this strong base, dancers can explore other styles such as jazz, contemporary, and modern dance. Classes are available for children as young as two years old, as well as adult classes.
Modern/Jazz classes at the school aim to make this style of dance accessible to all, instilling a lifelong love of dance in students. The classes focus on using the body as an instrument of expression and communication, teaching students teamwork, focus, and improvisational skills.
The school also offers classes for students with special needs, focusing on improving physical fitness, motor skills, flexibility, and strength in a safe and fun environment. Drama and musical theatre classes empower young people to develop effective communication skills and work collaboratively with others.
In addition, the school offers acro dance classes, incorporating fluid movements of dance with exciting acrobatic tricks. This next-level training helps students develop specific strength, flexibility, and technique, creating well-rounded and versatile dancers. Tap dance classes are also available for young children to explore rhythm and timing through the sounds of tap shoes.
Students at the Joan Denise Moriarty School of Dance have the opportunity to participate in performance classes, where they can learn different styles of dance and gain experience performing at various events. The school also organises annual events, such as the Summer Show, where students showcase their talents on stage.
One highlight of the school's activities is the annual trip to the San Francisco Saint Patrick's Day Parade. Students and their families get to soak up the California sunshine, explore the city, and participate in the parade with a prize-winning performance. The school also celebrates events such as the Cork Saint Patrick's Day Festival, showcasing the talents of its students and spreading the joy of dance throughout the community.