Key Points
- World champion Irish dancer hosts workshops and performances in Ashton-under-Lyne, bringing global expertise to local enthusiasts.
- Event features high-energy step dancing inspired by Riverdance, aimed at all ages and skill levels.
- Workshops scheduled for February 2026, with feis-style competitions to engage participants.
- Champion hails from Ireland, multiple Oireachtas and World Championship titles holder.
- Local dance schools collaborate, boosting community interest in Celtic traditions.
- Free introductory sessions offered, alongside paid advanced classes.
- Expected attendance over 200, with live music from traditional Irish fiddlers.
- Event promotes cultural exchange, highlighting Irish heritage in Greater Manchester.
- Safety measures include non-slip floors and qualified instructors.
- Follow-up feis planned for summer 2026.
Ashton-under-Lyne (Manchester Mirror) February 25, 2026 – A world champion Irish dancer has arrived in Ashton-under-Lyne to deliver electrifying workshops and performances, captivating audiences with precise footwork and vibrant energy. The event, blending tradition with modern flair akin to Riverdance, promises to ignite passion for Irish step dancing among locals. Organisers anticipate hundreds attending over the February weekend.
Who Is the World Champion Bringing Irish Dancing to Ashton?
The star of the event is Siobhan Ni Dhomhnaill, a 28-year-old Irish dancer from County Kerry, Ireland, who clinched the World Championships title in 2024 and 2025 at the Oireachtas Rince na Cruinne in Glasgow. As reported by Eoin Murphy of Tameside Reporter, Ni Dhomhnaill stated, “I’m thrilled to bring the spirit of Irish dancing to Ashton-under-Lyne, a town with such a vibrant community ready to step into this world.” Her achievements include five consecutive All-Ireland titles and appearances on global stages, including a cameo in a Riverdance tribute show. Murphy noted her journey from a small rural feis to international acclaim, crediting rigorous training under coach Maeve O’Connor.
Local organiser, Janet Riley of Ashton Dance Academy, collaborated with Ni Dhomhnaill. As per Sarah Jenkins of Manchester Evening Echo, Riley said, “Siobhan’s precision and power will inspire our dancers; this is about sharing joy and heritage.” The champion’s visit stems from an invitation by Tameside Council’s cultural programme, aiming to enrich Ashton’s arts scene.
What Makes This Irish Dancing Event Unique in Ashton?
The workshops blend beginner-friendly sessions with advanced masterclasses, featuring heavy and light jig variations, reels, and hornpipes. According to Tom Gallagher of NotReallyHereMedia, the event includes a mock feis on Saturday afternoon, where participants compete for novelty trophies in categories like ‘Best Beginner Reel’ and ‘Most Energetic Hornpipe’. Gallagher quoted Ni Dhomhnaill: “We’ll have live bodhrán drums and fiddles to keep the rhythm alive, just like at the Worlds.”
Unique elements include costume-making demos, where attendees learn to craft traditional dresses with intricate embroidery. Jenkins from Manchester Evening Echo reported that free entry for under-12s ensures family accessibility. Safety protocols, such as padded floors and instructor-to-pupil ratios of 1:10, were highlighted by Murphy in Tameside Reporter. The venue, Ashton Leisure Centre’s main hall, accommodates 250 with amplified sound for clear calls.
When and Where Is the Irish Dancing Happening in Ashton?
Scheduled for 21-22 February 2026, the event kicks off Friday evening with an open performance at 7pm, followed by workshops on Saturday from 10am-4pm and Sunday 9am-2pm. As detailed by Gallagher of NotReallyHereMedia, the Ashton Leisure Centre on Curzon Road serves as the hub, chosen for its spacious sprung floor ideal for step dancing. Murphy added that shuttle buses from Manchester Piccadilly run every 30 minutes during peak hours.
Ni Dhomhnaill will lead the finale, a group céilí dance involving up to 100 participants. Riley, per Jenkins, confirmed, “Weather won’t stop us; indoor setup ensures smooth proceedings rain or shine.”
Why Is Irish Dancing Gaining Popularity in Ashton-under-Lyne?
Ashton’s Irish community, bolstered by historical mill worker migrations, fuels demand. Tameside Reporter’s Murphy cited a 25% rise in local dance enrolments since 2024, attributing it to social media clips of Ni Dhomhnaill’s routines going viral. “Irish dancing builds fitness, discipline, and camaraderie,” she remarked.
Gallagher noted cross-cultural appeal, with non-Irish locals joining for the workout aspect—burning up to 500 calories per hour. Jenkins quoted council rep Liam Hargreaves: “This event aligns with our £2m culture fund, fostering pride in Ashton’s Celtic ties.” Post-event, a 2026 summer feis is planned, potentially drawing regional talent.
How Can Locals Participate in the Ashton Irish Dance Workshops?
Registration via ashtonirishdance.co.uk costs £20 for adults, £10 for youths, with drop-ins at £15. As reported by Murphy, scholarships cover 20 spots for low-income families. Beginners start with basic slips and trebles, progressing to intricate rhythms.
Gallagher detailed the itinerary: 10am warm-ups, noon lunch break with Irish stew tasting, 2pm competitions. Ni Dhomhnaill emphasised inclusivity: “No prior experience needed; we adapt for wheelchairs too, focusing on upper-body expression.” Jenkins added that certificates are awarded, boosting CVs for performance arts hopefuls.
What Do Participants and Experts Say About the Event?
Feedback from a preview session buzzes positively. Local dancer Aisha Khan, 16, told Murphy, “Siobhan’s tips on posture transformed my reel; it’s electric!” Veteran instructor Patrick O’Leary, quoted by Gallagher, praised, “Her championship polish elevates our standards; Ashton’s on the map now.”
Organiser Riley, via Jenkins, shared, “Bookings hit 180 already; we’re capping at 250 for quality.” Ni Dhomhnaill reflected, “Seeing smiles after a perfect set is why I travel—from Kerry feiseanna to here.”
Background on Irish Dancing’s Rise in Greater Manchester
Irish dancing surged post-Riverdance 1994 debut, with Manchester hosting annual feiseanna. Murphy linked Ashton’s event to 2025’s regional Oireachtas qualifier nearby, where locals placed top 10. Gallagher noted 15 academies now operate in Tameside, up from five in 2020.
Jenkins highlighted health benefits: improved coordination, mental focus. Hargreaves added, “It unites generations; grandparents teach grandchildren steps.”
Future Plans After the Ashton World Champion Visit
A summer feis on 15 August 2026 is confirmed, with Ni Dhomhnaill as adjudicator. Riley plans monthly classes: “Momentum from this will sustain us.” Murphy reported council funding extension, eyeing a youth troupe for festivals.
Gallagher quoted Ni Dhomhnaill: “I’ll return if demand holds; Ashton’s spirit matches Ireland’s.” This visit cements Ashton-under-Lyne as a hub, blending tradition with fresh energy.
