McGahan Lees Irish Dance Academy (McGL) is a renowned Irish Dance Academy that has been celebrating over 8 years of success in Europe. Founded by Frances McGahan in 1996, the Academy is registered with An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha, one of the governing bodies of Irish dance based in Dublin, Ireland. With multiple locations across SE England and Europe, including classes in Essex, Kent, North & SE London, Oxford, Prague, and Warsaw, McGL offers classes for all ages and levels. From absolute beginners to Open Championship World Medal holders, McGL takes dancers on a journey from their first steps to the stages of London's West End.
Classes at McGL are specifically tailored to each student's level, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone. The Academy prides itself on providing only the best instruction, with teachers who have experienced the highs and lows of their own dance journey and are passionate about passing on their knowledge to their students. McGL also offers support to dancers from within through the 'Friends of McGahan Lees.' No dancer showing an aptitude to progress will be hindered by finance, and the Academy also donates thousands of pounds to charity every year.
Aside from dance classes, McGL is more than just a Dance Academy. It is a community that supports one another. By joining McGL, dancers have the opportunity to develop their love for the art-form and challenge their ability to excel. Some dancers may even find themselves travelling the globe and creating memories that will stay with them a lifetime.
For beginners, classes at McGL are focused on learning the basics of Irish Dance in a fun and non-competitive environment. Beginners are grouped in classes by age and only require comfortable sports attire, such as a t-shirt, shorts or leggings, and plimsolls or pumps. The only other requirement is to tie their hair back. There is no need for formal class costumes or shoes at this stage. Beginner's classes are relatively cheap, and all taster classes are free. The only additional cost is the annual registration fee, payable annually, which includes a t-shirt, shoe bag, or other McGL branded attire. As beginners progress, they may want to invest in a pair of Irish Dance pumps used in soft shoe dancing, and heavy shoes are only required later on.
Beginners at McGL are encouraged to enter the Academy's two annual class competitions, one in the summer and the other at Christmas. These competitions are fun events where the whole family is encouraged to come along and participate. The emphasis is on fun and giving students a chance to see how they are developing, with everyone receiving a prize.
If you are interested in joining the McGL Family and finding out more about McGL and their classes, you can visit their website or find a local class near you on their class schedule.
