New Dance School in Tucson
August 1st was the first day of classes for the new Tucson-based Maguire Academy of Irish Dance. Headed by Darren Maguire, TCRG, the new school is currently offering classes for students aged from 4 through adult, at skill levels from absolute beginner to championship, at two studios in metro Tucson. The school’s central Tucson classes are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at the school’s studio at 2921 E. Grant Road (Grant and Country Club). Northwest classes will be offered on Fridays at the “Gotta Dance” studio at 4249 W. Ina Rd., beginning on August 25th.
Maguire relocated to Tucson to open the Maguire Academy after “hanging up” his Riverdance shoes just this summer. Having danced with the world-renowned show for ten years, Maguire performed on many the world’s most notable stages, including Radio City Music Hall, The Kremlin and the Great Hall of the People. During those travels, he managed to find the time to earn his TCRG—the certification required to teach competitive Irish dance under the rules of the Dublin, Ireland-based Irish Dancing Commission.
Maguire may have danced before he walked—his experience with Irish dance began early. He was born into a dancing family, as his parents, Kathleen and Michael Maguire, founded the highly-regarded Maguire O’Shea Academy of Irish Dance just outside London, England nearly thirty-five years ago. Maguire and each of his five siblings inherited the talent, and all have won major dance titles, the most recent being his youngest sister, Ellie, taking first place at the World Championships this past Spring. Darren’s own championship record is long. Before joining Riverdance in 1996, he had earned first place at many regional and National competitions, including the Great Britains, All England, All Ireland and the Regional Oireachtas; and a second place in the World Championships.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to teach dance in Tucson,” said Maguire. “The Irish community here is immensely supportive—we’re off to a brilliant start. I’m seeing lots of talent and enthusiasm, and look forward to developing the dancers, and the school.”
For more information about the Maguire Academy of Irish Dance and classes or performances in Tucson, or to book a performance, contact Cathy Harris or 881-5880.
