At the Rafter School of Irish Dancing, our passion for Irish dancing runs deep. Our school was founded in 2001 by Joan Rafter and she was joined soon after by her sister Lucia. Joan and Lucia share a love for Irish dancing that was sparked at an early age, when their mother - a passionate and talented dancer herself - encouraged them to give it a try. Both would go on to dance at the World Irish Dance Championships and many other national and international competitions for the Áine O'Shea school of Irish dancing. Their talent and dedication led them to performing in the original Riverdance troupe for the 1994 Eurovision interval act and they continued to perform with Riverdance for many years after.

For Joan and Lucia, Irish dancing has been more than just a passion - it's been a transformative experience that has enriched their lives in countless ways. From the thrill of performing on stage to the sense of community and belonging that comes with being part of the Irish dancing family, the sisters have cherished every moment of their journey as Irish dancers.

It was this deep love for the art form and the profound impact it had on their lives that inspired them to establish the Rafter School of Irish Dancing. Their mission was simple: to share the magic of Irish dance with a new generation of students and give them the same opportunity to experience the joy and fulfillment that comes with mastering this beautiful and unique art form.

Today, the Rafter School of Irish Dancing operates in seven locations across Counties Cavan and Monaghan, in Ireland. With a passion for sharing the beauty and joy of Irish dance, the school has become a beloved institution in the local community.

At the Rafter School of Irish Dancing, our focus is on introducing the next generation to the magic of Irish dance. We believe that everyone has the potential to become a confident and skilled Irish dancer, and we're committed to providing the guidance, support, and encouragement that our students need to thrive.

Our classes are open to students of all ages and levels of experience, from absolute beginners to advanced dancers. Whether you're just starting out on your Irish dance journey or an experienced dancer looking to refine your skills, we have a class that's right for you. We're dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential, and we're committed to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that fosters growth, creativity, and community.

So whether you're looking to learn the basics of Irish dance, or you're a seasoned dancer seeking to take your skills to the next level, we invite you to join us at the Rafter School of Irish Dancing. With our supportive community, expert guidance, and commitment to excellence, we're confident that you'll find your home with us. For more information about our classes and locations, please visit our Class Location page.