Comstock Park — Stoney Creek Elementary students were treated recently to a demonstration of Irish step dance by members of the Scoil Rince Ní Bhraonáin.
Among those six students performing was one of the school’s own, second-grader Juno Cloud, who was excited to share her passion for Irish dance.
How old were you when Irish dancing became something you wanted to pursue, and what’s the story there? “I was 6,” she said. “I like jumping around and I like dancing, but not ballet. I like being energetic, too.”
Juno said she was familiar with Irish dancing since her mother, Rachel, has done it. Rachel said there has been someone Irish step dancing in their family since at least her own great-grandfather.
Rachel said Juno tried several different programs at the dance school last summer including Little Leprechauns, an introduction to Irish step dancing, and enjoyed it.
A few related accomplishments: Juno has performed in Irish pubs and most recently was part of a group tour on St. Patrick’s Day visiting local schools that included her own. She also has competed in feiseanna, or Irish dance competitions, where groups she performed with have earned a first-place, two second-place, two third-place and a fourth-place award.
Is there a teacher or teachers who have had a big impact? Juno said all the teachers she has had at her dance school. And she had a big smile when several Stoney Creek teachers and Principal Robin Picarazzi told her how impressed they were with her talent.
Do you have a favorite dance? Juno said a reel, a Celtic social folk dance where dancers perform traveling figures that alternate with setting “steps” danced in place.
Do you plan to pursue this professionally? Envision yourself 10/20 years from now. Juno said she wants to advance through the levels of Irish dancing: beginner, advanced beginner, novice, prizewinner, preliminary championship and open championship. She also would like to teach Irish dancing. She just graduated to the official school red dress with a Celtic design in white, yellow and black.
Other hobbies/interests/little-known talents: Juno said she likes to pretend to ride horses, play with cats and read. She also loves Pokémon.
What is your favorite thing about Irish dance? Juno said making new friends, and that she enjoys looking at all the sparkly dresses the more advanced dancers wear.
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