Local dance schools perform in Disneyland Paris

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Two Athlone dance schools have fulfilled a dream of performing on an international stage after travelling to Disneyland Paris as part of the resort’s Disney Performing Arts programme.

Reynolds Academy of Irish Dancing and Luan Academy of Irish Dance took part in the trip from Friday, September 18, to Monday, September 21, giving dancers the opportunity to showcase their talent to audiences from around the world.

The schools performed as part of an international showcase, bringing the energy and tradition of Irish dance to the stage at Disneyland Paris.

For Luan Academy, one of the highlights was a specially choreographed GAA-themed performance celebrating the pride and passion of the local community. The piece paid tribute to both Garrycastle and Athlone GAA, combining the academy’s Irish dance tradition with the spirit of Gaelic games.

The performance gave the dancers an opportunity to bring a distinctly local identity to an international audience, celebrating the sporting and cultural traditions of their hometown.

In the lead-up to the trip, Luan Academy also organised a fundraising drive to help with the costs of costumes and team gear. At a special event on Saturday, September 12, the academy presented a cheque for €1,500 to South Westmeath Hospice, a cause which holds a special place within the Luan Academy community.

Meanwhile, the Reynolds Academy said the trip represented the culmination of a huge amount of work behind the scenes, while also marking a special milestone for its dancers.

“What started as a dream has become something very real,” a statement from the school read.

“We are so incredibly proud of our dancers. They have worked so hard, shown such dedication and created so many memories together before the trip has even begun.”

The academy described seeing its dancers take to the stage at Disneyland Paris as a particularly special moment.

“To see them walk out and perform in Disneyland Paris is a very special moment for Reynolds Academy, one we know we will remember for a very, very long time.”