ASHBY — Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, the lively rhythms and high-flying steps of Irish dance will take center stage at two local libraries as the Flying Irish Dancers make special appearances in Ashburnham and Townsend.
The Flying Irish Dancers, based in Ashby, have been sharing their energetic blend of traditional and contemporary Irish dance for nearly 30 years. Known for their “wicked cool Irish Dance,” the troupe combines centuries-old choreography with modern flair, and a lots of fun.
The celebration kicks off Thursday, March 12, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Stevens Memorial Library, located at 20 Memorial Drive. Audience members will be treated to a spirited performance while learning about the history and culture of Ireland and how it connects to Irish dance. The dancers even share a bit of Gaelic along the way, offering a cultural experience as entertaining as it is educational. For more information, or to register (space is limited), please visit ashburnhamlibrary.org or call 978-827-4115.
The festivities continue Saturday, March 14, from 11 a.m. to noon at Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Road. This all-ages performance — sponsored by the Friends of the Library — invites families to get into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit with a dynamic showcase of both traditional and modern Irish dance styles. For more information, or to register (space is limited), please visit townsendlibrary.org or call 978-597-1714.
Beyond the performances, the Flying Irish Dancers pride themselves on fostering a welcoming, close-knit community. Their small class sizes allow each dancer to progress at their own pace while receiving individual attention. Dancers learn not only technique, but also the importance of friendship and teamwork — values reflected in their participation in feiseanna, the traditional Irish dance competitions that have been passed down through generations.
“Family is very important to the Flying Irish Dance Troupe,” said Mary-Sarah O’Hanlon. “I started the dance school in 1997, and now my daughter, Tatiana O’Hanlon, TCRG (a certified teacher), has taken over teaching. We’ve even had former students return as adults to dance again, sometimes joining adult groups.”
“We teach our dancers that performing in shows is a way of sharing their passion with audiences, by showcasing the joy of their dancing,” O’Hanlon added. “Performance is a skill that we teach, which can benefit our dancers throughout their lives.”
As an Open Platform organization, the Flying Irish emphasize that making “feis friends” is just as important as competition results, creating an inclusive environment where dancers and families often form lifelong bonds.
“Teaching with the Flying Irish is like being a part of a sisterhood,” said Kim Sweeney. “It doesn’t matter what age, ability, skill level, or beliefs are… we all have a place in our heart for Irish dancing and we bring that piece of us every week to our dance family through dance, laughter, memories, skill, and love.”
With toe-tapping music, soaring steps, and a festive spirit, these two library performances promise a joyful way to celebrate Irish culture — and the luck of the Irish — right here in the community.
In addition to their public performances, the Flying Irish Dancers will offer a mini-session for new students from March 24 through April 14. The introductory program runs Tuesdays from 5 until 5:30 p.m., is open to ages 6 and up, and costs $20, providing a fun, low-commitment opportunity for newcomers to experience Irish step dancing.
For more information on The Flying Irish Dance Troupe, please visit their website at flyingirish.com.
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