Registration:518-357-3668
2141 Eastern Parkway
Mé Rince
(may RIN-kuh means "Dance Me" in Irish!)
Dance Me's Mé Rince Irish dancers immerse themselves in culture, language, and multiple styles of Irish dance. Taught in an encouraging, yet focused environment by an accomplished qualified professional, and former competitive Irish dancer, students receive educational, fun, disciplined and high-quality instruction without the cost and time commitment of competitive irish dancing. Students will learn both contemporary and traditional solo and step dancing; as well as social group ceili (Kay-lee) and set dances. Whether or not you're Irish, come dance with us! As the Irish say, "The craic (fun) is mighty!
Irish language and culture is a strong component of the class,
and is incorporated regularly throughout the lessons. Musicality and rhythm are also large components of the class
Dancers will learn proper placement of their bodies, feet, arms, and head, with an
emphasis on carriage, strength training and proper technique.
These are non-competetive classes, and they are not affiliated with any competitive Irish Dance organizations.
MEET THE INSTRUCTOR and Program Director
Miss Gretchen
From the Buffalo area, Gretchen began dance age 4 and has trained with Sherri Martin, Lorraine Goddard, and in musical theatre with Lynn Scott-D'Alfonzo. In 1999, she began her teaching career as an assistant and substitute dance teacher with the Sam Smith School of Dance. She went on to receive her BFA in Theatre Performance and Communications from Niagara University where she continued her dance studies in tap, jazz, ballet and musical theatre under Gary Marino, Julie Kenny, and Terri Lynn Vaughan. In college, she also began Irish step dancing with the Paula Woodgate School. She quickly progressed through the ranks of competition, becoming a world class competitor within a few years. She went on to receive her MA in Ethnochoreology, the academic study of cultural dancing, from The Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick in Ireland. She continued training overseas under Michael Ryan. In 2007, she toured France with the dance show "Ragus." Miss Gretchen relocated to the Capital Region in 2008, where she continued competing with the Boland School until she retired from competition in 2013 at the age of 29. She has multiple experiences with both team and solo Irish dancing at the Local, Regional, National, International, and World levels.
Dress Code:
Shorts, fitted T-shirt, NO baggy clothing.
Black ballet shoes
Irish soft shoes (ghillies/pumps/lights) are not required,
but if you would like to purchase them, we recommend Fays Platinum Suede Soft Shoes.
CLICK HERE to visit the Fays Online Shop.
If the teacher feels the class is ready, you may be asked to get Hardshoes (the loud ones in Riverdance).
Dance sneakers are great to practice in until shoes may be acquired.
If you are purchasing a new pair, we recommend Fays Super Flexi.
If you would like to try to find a used pair, speak to your teacher.
Please Visit our Schedule and Tuition Page for Class info
Irish Dance
Mé Rince