A Step in the Right Direction.

About Kildare Academy of Dance

More than just a dance class.

More than just a dance class — a happy place where everyone feels welcome and valued.

Our studio is a friendly, positive space where dancers can be themselves, build confidence and discover the joy of dance. With caring teachers and friendships that grow along the way, we encourage every dancer to learn, explore and thrive at their own pace.

We celebrate the small achievements just as warmly as the big ones, whether it’s trying something new, mastering a step or finding the confidence to join in. Every moment of progress matters.

Every flower blossoms in its own time, and every dancer has their own journey. We’re here to nurture that growth with patience, kindness and encouragement, making the journey as special as the destination.

Excellence in Dance Education

Since opening in 2010, The Kildare Academy of Dance has continually worked to raise the standard of dance education in Kildare.

Our classes are led by highly trained, qualified and experienced teachers who are passionate about both dance and teaching. We believe that excellent training should be encouraging, inspiring and appropriate to each student’s age, ability and individual goals.

Strong technique and high standards are at the heart of our teaching, but we also understand that dance education is about much more than steps. Our students develop confidence, discipline, creativity, musicality, teamwork, resilience and a positive approach to learning.

Every achievement matters, from a nervous dancer taking part in their first class to a senior student completing an examination or stepping onto the stage.

Our Ethos

At The Kildare Academy of Dance, every dancer deserves to feel welcomed, valued and supported.

We provide a positive and nurturing environment where students can learn at their own pace while being encouraged to reach their full potential. Our teaching combines structure and discipline with creativity, enjoyment and an understanding of the whole dancer.

We believe in:

Delivering safe, progressive and age-appropriate training
Maintaining high standards of teaching, technique and ballet etiquette
Celebrating effort, progress and individual achievement
Building confidence through achievable short- and long-term goals
Encouraging teamwork, respect and positive friendships
Supporting different learning styles and individual needs
Creating a studio where students feel safe to learn and express themselves
Keeping the joy of dance at the centre of everything we do

For us, dance is not only about performance. It is about developing skills and experiences that students can carry with them throughout their lives.

An Award-Winning Dance Community

We are incredibly proud that the dedication of our students, teachers and wider dance community has been recognised through awards and national nominations.

The Kildare Academy of Dance was honoured as Youth Organisation of the Year 2025 and received four finalist nominations at the Gala Dance Awards.

These achievements reflect far more than what happens on stage. They recognise the commitment, teamwork, creativity and sense of community that make our school so special.

We are grateful to every student, parent, teacher and team member who continues to be part of our journey.

Meet Our Teaching Team

Our teachers bring together professional qualifications, extensive teaching experience and a genuine passion for helping dancers succeed.

The team includes specialists in classical ballet, modern, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, commercial dance, hip hop, tap, conditioning, pre-school education, adult dance and neurodiversity-informed teaching.

We remain committed to professional development so that our students benefit from current, safe and effective teaching practices.

Most importantly, our teachers take the time to know their students. They understand when to challenge, when to encourage and how to make learning both meaningful and enjoyable.

Meet Our Team

Our experienced and dedicated team shares a genuine passion for dance, teaching and supporting every student. Together, we work to maintain the high standards, positive atmosphere and strong sense of community at The Kildare Academy of Dance.

Principal and Director

Miss Jenny Mac Mahon

Miss Jenny is the Principal and Director of The Kildare Academy of Dance. With more than 22 years of teaching experience, she has created a school where high-quality dance education is combined with encouragement, inclusion and a genuine understanding of every student.

Trained in both the ISTD and RAD methods, Miss Jenny teaches students from their very first ballet class through to senior and vocational levels. She also specialises in pre-school dance, adult ballet and neurodiversity-informed teaching.

Miss Jenny is passionate about helping dancers develop strong technique, confidence, musicality and a lifelong love of dance. She believes every student should feel valued and supported, whether they dance for enjoyment, examinations, performance or future professional training.

Her vision for Kildare Academy of Dance is simple: to provide excellent teaching, meaningful opportunities and a welcoming dance community in which every student can progress and feel proud of their achievements.

Ballet and Modern Teacher · Artistic Director, Kildare Youth Ballet Company

Miss Danielle Moran Bradshaw

Miss Danielle teaches Ballet and Modern at The Kildare Academy of Dance and is the Artistic Director of the Kildare Youth Ballet Company.

She is passionate about developing dancers who are technically strong, expressive, disciplined and confident on stage. Her classes encourage students to work with focus and determination while continuing to enjoy their training and express their individuality.

As Artistic Director of KYBC, Miss Danielle guides dancers through company classes, rehearsals, choreography and productions. She helps students develop artistry, performance skills, teamwork and an understanding of the commitment involved in working as part of a ballet company.

Miss Danielle brings creativity, energy and high expectations to her work, encouraging every dancer to take pride in their progress and reach their full potential.

Tap Teacher

Miss Claudia

Miss Claudia teaches Tap at The Kildare Academy of Dance.

Her lively and engaging classes introduce students to tap technique, rhythm, timing and musicality. She encourages dancers to listen carefully, build coordination and develop confidence as they learn new steps and rhythmic combinations.

Miss Claudia creates a positive and enjoyable class environment where students can make progress, express themselves and experience the unique energy and excitement of tap dancing.

Internal Operations Manager

Marie-Therese Melia

Marie-Therese is the Internal Operations Manager at The Kildare Academy of Dance and plays an important role in keeping the school organised and running smoothly.

Working closely with Miss Jenny and the wider team, she supports the day-to-day administration and internal organisation of the Academy. Her work helps ensure that teachers, students and families receive clear information and that classes, events and school activities are carefully coordinated.

Marie-Therese brings a calm, friendly and practical approach to her role and is always happy to assist our dance families.

Reception and Dance Shop

Jean

Jean is one of the friendly faces welcoming students and families to The Kildare Academy of Dance.

Based at reception and in the Kildare Dance Shop, Jean assists families with general enquiries, uniforms, dancewear and the everyday practicalities of studio life. Her helpful and approachable manner ensures that dancers and parents always feel welcome.

Jean is a valued part of the Kildare Academy of Dance community and helps create the warm, organised and friendly atmosphere our families experience when they arrive at the studio.

Join Our Dance Family

Whether you are looking for your child’s very first dance class, advanced training for a committed young dancer or an enjoyable adult class for yourself, we would love to welcome you to The Kildare Academy of Dance.

Come and discover excellent teaching, meaningful opportunities and a community in which every dancer matters.

Find Your Class