Tipperary dancers set to compete in their first All-Ireland championships

Talented students from The Dancer's Academy of Performing Arts in Clonmel are finalising their routines ahead of the All Ireland Lyrical Dance Championships in Bundoran, Co. Donegal, which run from November 18-20.
A group of parents and relatives, along with teacher Katy Wallace, will accompany the dancers on their first championships adventure.
Dance teacher Katy Wallace is “incredibly proud” of how her students, which range from 7 to 12 years, have been preparing for the competition. “They all started at beginner level in lyrical dance with me this year. I have seen them grow and develop their dance technique, knowledge, flexibility, musicality and expression. I have helped them to grow in confidence and self-belief in their abilities,” she tells South Tipp Today.
Cashel’s Katy applauds her “tight knit team” for motivating each other every class. She has spent hours in studio preparing choreography, and sourcing and editing music for each student. “I’m most looking forward to seeing them perform in front of a huge crowd and seeing their talent and confidence beaming. To see their parents and relatives proud will be fantastic,” she continues.
The local dancers are very excited about competing in their first competition.
Little Flower National School, Ballytarsna, fifth class pupil Paige Gavin says Katy is an amazing teacher. “We all love her. I can't wait for the All Ireland Lyrical Dance Championships in Donegal. I have put in a lot of hard work and many hours of training in preparation for the competition and I’m so excited,” 10 year old Paige smiles.
Kilsheelan National School sixth class pupil Tamara Power is looking forward to dancing her solo in the competition. “We have worked so hard,” 12 year old Tamara admits.
St. Joseph’s Primary School, Tipperary Town, pupil Michaela Barthova is nervous but very excited about the competition.“I’m excited about my solo, quad and group dances. We will all be going up to Donegal to just enjoy ourselves and have a great time,” 11 year old Michaela says.
Clerihan National School’s Roseann Foley can't wait to dance her solo called Oceans. “I’m also excited to be dancing my duet with Paige and the group dances with my team,” 11 year old Roseann highlights.
Rathgormack National School’s Ava Williams notes: “My seven year old sister Sarah and I are so excited for the competition. We are nervous, but can't wait to dance in our very first competition. Our parents are coming with us for support”.
Our Lady of Mercy Primary School, Cahir, pupil Adriana Kaak is also relishing the experience. “I’m so excited and nervous. We have trained for many hours and put in a lot of hard work to compete this weekend,” 11 year old Adriana concludes.