About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
At the Bracken School of Irish Dance, we are passionate about sharing the rich tradition of Irish dance with dancers of all ages. Whether you're introducing your child to Irish dance or looking to begin your own journey as an adult, our goal is to help every student grow—not only in skill and confidence, but also as a teammate, performer, and individual.
Through expert instruction, encouragement, and dedication, we watch beginners develop into confident, capable dancers who embrace challenges and celebrate their achievements. We believe that hard work, perseverance, and a positive attitude open the door to endless possibilities. Along the way, our students build lasting friendships, create meaningful memories, and become part of a supportive dance family.
We proudly offer Irish dance classes for children ages four and up, as well as adults, at our Mesa and Tucson, AZ locations. Whether your goal is to dance for fun, stay active, connect with Irish culture, perform, or compete, you'll find a welcoming community where every dancer is encouraged to learn, grow, and enjoy the journey.
Our dancers regularly perform throughout Arizona at festivals, cultural celebrations, community events, charitable fundraisers, and private engagements, sharing their love of Irish dance while giving back to the communities we call home.
Whether you're looking for a fun and enriching activity for your child or you're an adult ready to try something new, we'd love to welcome you to the Bracken family. We invite you to follow us on Instagram or Facebook, or reach out to join a class BrackenIrishDanceAZ@gmail.com!
Our Story
The Bracken School of Irish Dance was founded in Ireland in 1980 by Thomas Bracken, T.C.R.G., whose passion for Irish dance, education, and culture established the foundation for the welcoming community we continue to build today. A graduate of University College Dublin, Thomas dedicated his career to teaching and preserving the traditions of Irish dance, and his vision continues to inspire the school and its students.
Throughout his distinguished career, Thomas served as a certified teacher and Grade Examiner with An Coimisiún Le Rincí Gaelacha (the Irish Dancing Commission), conducting official grade examinations and leading workshops and master classes throughout North America. He also contributed choreography at the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA) and taught at the Gaelic Roots Summer School at Boston College. As a performer, he appeared on some of the world's most celebrated stages, including Carnegie Hall in New York City and the Royal Albert Hall in London.
Today, the Bracken School proudly carries forward that tradition under a dedicated team of certified instructors, including former Bracken student Maggie Lopez, T.C.R.G. As a fully qualified Irish dance teacher, Maggie brings experience, enthusiasm, and a genuine love of mentoring dancers of all ages. She is passionate about creating a positive, encouraging environment where every student can build confidence, develop their talents, and reach their individual goals.
The school's commitment to excellence has inspired generations of dancers. Bracken alumni have performed throughout Europe, the United States, and Canada, appearing in television specials, international folk festivals, and charitable performances alongside renowned artists including The Chieftains, Frank Patterson, Glen Campbell, Hal Roach, and Cherish the Ladies. Some have also gone on to perform with internationally acclaimed productions such as Lord of the Dance.
At its heart, the Bracken School of Irish Dance is about more than competition. We are committed to sharing the joy, discipline, and rich cultural heritage of Irish dance while fostering a welcoming community where dancers of all ages can learn, grow, perform, and build lifelong friendships.
Kieran Noe, Bailee, Delci, Mary Mirasola, Colleen-Kelehan-Pierson, Kirsten Hahn, Thomas Bracken at the Lord of the Dance premier 2018.
Mary Mirasola, Bracken Alumni & Lead Dancer with Lord of the Dance with Thomas Bracken 2018.
Release the Bracken!
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