Miss Mac Dance Studio (MMD Studios) is a renowned dance school and academy located in Craigavon. Founded in 1997, it initially moved to England before returning to its roots and establishing the studio in 2014. MMD Studios takes pride in its unique empowerment model, which aims to inspire dancers to look beyond their immediate surroundings and strive for greatness together.
The studio offers a wide range of dance classes, including ballet, contemporary, hip hop, Latin American, and dancerise. Additionally, they provide toning and flexibility classes to enhance the dancers' physical abilities. Led by Claire McMahon Mooney, an experienced dance teacher with 23 years of expertise, MMD Studios has produced successful alumni, such as Layla Zaidi and Michael Mather, who have excelled in TV shows, theatre productions, and West End performances. The studio has also nurtured talented individuals who have gone on to establish successful businesses and continue to receive guidance and support from Claire.
Claire McMahon Mooney, the founder and principal dancer of MMD Studios, is a highly respected figure in the dance community. She is renowned for her teaching methods that foster creative emergence in young dancers, building resilience, and refining their dance and choreography skills. Claire has played a pivotal role in creating a vibrant dance community in Lurgan and Craigavon.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, MMD Studios has implemented strict safety measures to ensure the well-being of its dancers. The studio is fully equipped with touch-free sanitisers, kick screens, a safe dance space, and a secure queuing system. Additionally, Claire has collaborated with Future Screens NI to develop a dance movement through virtual platforms, enabling dancers to participate in solo but united dance routines from the safety of their homes.
Claire McMahon Mooney holds a deep passion for dance, which began with her foray into Latin-American and Freestyle Disco Dance at the age of 9. She possesses an impressive educational background, including a triple distinction in Performed Arts in Belfast and a foundation degree and Ba (Hons) Degree in Dance from Newcastle College. Claire holds a DTTLS teaching qualification from Newcastle College and has previously taught ballet and contemporary dance at the college for two years. She is also a qualified Freestyle Dance teacher from Newcastle Dance Centre.
Claire's ultimate goal is to enable her dancers to reach their full potential and aspire to greatness. She has a remarkable talent for building independent dancers capable of creating their own choreography from as early as 4 years old. With expertise in freestyle and acrotrix, Claire creates an environment that combines technical prowess with creative expression.
At Miss Mac Dance Studio, dancers can expect innovative and professional dance instruction in a safe and supportive environment. The studio provides opportunities for dancers to develop their skills, explore their artistic flair, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share their passion for dance. Whether aspiring to perform on stage, pursue a career in dance, or simply enjoy the benefits of dance as a recreational activity, MMD Studios caters to dancers of all ages and skill levels.