Cleary Irish Dance

Specialties

Cleary Irish Dance believes there is place for everyone in Irish dancing. We offer classes for all levels and all ages, beginner through championship, children 4+ through to adult. Director Margaret Cleary SDCRG truly believes in her motto «If you can walk, you can dance!»

Students learn the traditional art form of Irish dance (reels, jigs and hornpipes) in both soft and hard shoes, wile having fun and making new friends!

History

Established in 1988.

In 1988, Margaret Cleary A.D.C.R.G. introduced Irish Dance classes for adults at St. Ambrose Parish Hall in West Hollywood. The adult group were aptly known as The St. Ambrose Ceili Dancers and grew to be a reputable Irish organization within the Southern California community. They have attained six National titles for ceili dancing.

In 1993, Margaret added classes for children. Classes are now offered for students of all ages and levels. They study the traditional art form of Irish dance (reels, jigs and hornpipes) in both soft and hard shoes. Members of the group qualify every year to represent the Western U.S. region at the World Championships held annually at Easter in Ireland. Dancers perform regularly at events throughout the Southland and have appeared many times on local and national television as well as Irish TV (RTE). Cleary Irish Dance is proud to perpetuate the traditions and culture of Ireland in Los Angeles.

Meet the Business Owner

Margaret C.

Business Owner

Margaret Cleary was born in London of Irish parents (Tipperary and Kerry), the eldest of five girls, all champion dancers. She commenced dancing at the age of 8, and during her competitive years won countless solo championships, including All-​England title and All-​Ireland awards. She was a member of the Kavanagh senior figure dance team that were World Champions three consecutive years. Margaret attained her teaching accreditation (TCRG) with the Irish Dancing Commission in Dublin in 1976 and subsequently taught children in London whilst studying for her B.A. in Business at a London university.

In 1984, Margaret moved to Los Angeles. In 1988, she resumed Irish dancing by offering classes for adults. Children’s classes were added in 1993. In addition to teaching both adults and children’s classes, Margaret is in constant demand to adjudicate Irish dance competitions throughout North America, has judged National events as well as overseas including the World Championships in Ireland.