Gra na Rince School of Irish Dancing is a well-established dance school located in Redditch, New Zealand. Offering Irish dancing classes to students of all ages and abilities, the school aims to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals to develop their love for this dynamic dance form.
Founded in March 2014 by Louise Stanley, TCRG, who has over 25 years of experience in Irish dancing and teaches every class, Gra na Rince takes its name from the Irish language, meaning 'love the dance. ' This motto reflects the school's commitment to nurturing a passion for Irish dancing while fostering a sense of fun, building friendships, and improving fitness.
Registered with An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha (the Irish Dancing Commission) in Dublin, which is the oldest and largest Irish dance governing body in the world, Gra na Rince enables its dancers to compete locally, nationally, and internationally. Membership also allows students to take grade examinations, although participation in these exams is not mandatory.
Irish dance offers an energetic and varied dance experience, providing opportunities for dancers to perform athletic and intricate moves in light shoes as well as master rhythm and timing in hard shoes. Beyond the physical aspects, Irish dance teaches essential life skills, such as balance, muscle control, stamina, strength, teamwork, resilience, sportsmanship, and dedication. The beauty and inspiration of Irish dance make it a captivating art form to watch.
Louise Stanley, the founder and the only qualified and registered teacher of Irish dance in Redditch, Worcestershire, offers classes in various locations, including Selly Oak in Birmingham and Redditch itself. Additionally, she is fully insured and DBS checked, ensuring the safety and well-being of all students.
In February 2022, Louise achieved the MSc Dance Science qualification with Distinction from the University of Wolverhampton. This additional qualification allows Louise to deliver evidence-based dance and performance training techniques tailored to each individual student. The curriculum includes subjects such as applied physiology, performance psychology, strength, and conditioning for dancers, dance nutrition, and biomechanics. All training within the school follows current research and is regularly updated to promote the health and well-being of the dancers.
Gra na Rince School of Irish Dancing welcomes dancers of all ages and experience levels. Whether students wish to compete, participate in grade examinations, or simply dance for fun, fitness, and friendship, Gra na Rince is the perfect place to foster their love for Irish dancing.