COMPETITION
We provide world-class training to serious competitors, but we neither require nor pressure families to make the intense commitment that competition demands. Our students have won numerous prizes, reached world championship level, become professional dancers, and founded Irish Dance clubs in their colleges. Our small size (by today's standards) permits us to give students the personal attention they need at critical times in their development.
Once a dancer reaches the championship level, continuing advancement involves scheduling semi-private and/or private lessons, special workshops, multiple practices per week, and travel to the major events.
Feis
McArdle Schools hosts a feis (Irish Dance competition) annually in October. The Torrington Feis has gained a reputation as a well-run and friendly feis. Feiseanna are a crucible that compels dancers, such as those now performing with Riverdance, Trinity, and Michael Flatley's works to develop their spectacular virtuosity.