Booth City might not be the first place you think of for Irish dance, but this Appalachian gem has a surprising Celtic heartbeat. Whether you're looking to master the lightning-fast footwork of a reel or just want a fun way to stay active, here's where to find the best Irish dance instruction in town.

1. Shamrock & Soles Dance Academy

The gold standard for competitive Irish dance in Booth City, Shamrock & Soles offers classes for all levels. Their certified TCRG instructors have trained champions, but their beginner classes (ages 4+) are wonderfully welcoming. Unique perk: monthly live music sessions with local Celtic musicians.

Try their free "Taste of Irish Dance" workshop every first Saturday.

2. Mountain Celtic Arts Collective

This community hub takes a holistic approach, combining dance with Irish language and music classes. Their adult "Pub Style" classes (no experience needed) are perfect for those who want to dance casually to live tunes. The Wednesday night sessions often spill over into impromptu music jams.

3. WVU-Booth City Community Ed Program

The university's continuing education department offers 6-week Irish dance intensives each semester. These affordable classes focus on cultural context as much as technique, with guest lecturers covering everything from costume history to the dance's role in Irish resistance movements.

4. Digital Options: Local Teachers Going Virtual

Several Booth City instructors now offer hybrid learning:

  • Ceili Connect: Live-streamed group classes from a local studio
  • StepXStep: On-demand tutorials by a former Riverdance troupe member

What Makes Booth City Special?

Our local Irish dance scene blends Appalachian and Celtic traditions in unexpected ways. It's not uncommon to see:

  • Bluegrass-Irish fusion performances at the Fall Folk Festival
  • Collaborations with clogging teams
  • Original choreography inspired by West Virginia's landscapes

Pro Tip for Beginners

Invest in proper dance socks before hard shoes - most local studios sell them. The Booth City Dance Supply on 5th Street carries Irish dance gear specifically fitted for wider feet (a common need in our area!).

From competitive dancers to casual enthusiasts, Booth City's Irish dance community thrives through its blend of authentic tradition and mountain creativity. Sláinte!