Johnston School of Irish Dance

Brittany is thrilled to be a part of the Johnston team! Brittany grew up dancing in the Rochester area for the Drumcliffe School of Irish Dance and competed at the World Championships for the first time at just 11 years old, returning many years until her final Worlds in 2010 where she placed 20th in her age group. Receiving her TCRG in 2015, Brittany has special interests in engaging all ages in Irish Dancing, from the youngest beginners to the seasoned competitor to adults. Brittany holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Music Education and teaches PreK-5th Grade Music and Chorus in addition to her dance career.

I began Irish dancing at age 5 under the guidance of Ann and Patty at the Johnston School, where I instantly fell in love with the art and energy of Irish dance. Over the years, I competed in both ceili and solo dancing, earning top 10 placements regionally and internationally, and proudly becoming a World Medal Holder. One of my most memorable experiences was being part of a two-time Regional Champion 16-Hand Choreography team. After retiring from competition, I turned my passion into a profession. I graduated from SUNY Brockport in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology, along with a minor in Biology. In 2015, I became a certified TCRG and opened our Vestal location through Clann Na Cara. Most recently, in February 2024, I expanded into Scranton, proudly continuing the legacy of the Gallagher School of Irish Dance following Fedelmia Gallagher’s retirement. My mission is to share the joy, tradition, and spirit of Irish dance with the next generation—just as it was shared with me.

Patty also began dancing at 4 years old. She met Ann and formed a lifelong friendship while dancing for Patrick Butler. She joined Ann’s school in 1997 and earned her TCRG in 2001.

Ann began dancing at the age of 4 with renowned Irish Dance teacher Patrick Butler. She earned her TCRG in 1993, and her ADCRG 2001. She now has four school locations across CNY.

Beginner and advanced beginner level Irish dance classes.

Classes for Prelim and Open Champion level Irish dancers.

Classes for Novice, Prizewinner, Prelim, and Open Champion level Irish dancers focusing on soft shoe technique.

Advanced beginner level Irish dance classes focusing on fast hard shoe technique.

Classes for Novice, Prizewinner, Prelim, and Open Champion level Irish dancers focusing on hard shoe technique.

Advanced beginner level Irish dance classes focusing on soft shoe technique.

Beginner level Irish dance classes.

Classes for Novice and Prizewinner level Irish dancers.

Beginner level Irish dance classes.

Classes for dancers from Novice level through Champion level.

Advanced beginner level Irish dance classes.

Adult Ceili: A class for any adult interested in a social group dancing experience! No experience necessary, all levels welcome, this class has an emphasis on fun and laughter while moving together to great tunes. Little Shamrocks: Dance classes for Ages 3 – 4 yrs, geared toward the preschool mover in your family! Children ages 3 and 4 will explore movement and the foundations of dancing such as stretching, skipping, jumping, hopping, balance, galloping, tippy toes, steady beat movement, and the basics of Irish dancing steps.

Group Irish social dancing, also known as party or social dances in Irish culture. Some footwork basics are taught, followed by a group Ceili hour.

Classes for Prelim and Open Champion level Irish dancers.

Classes for Novice, Prizewinner, Prelim, and Open Champion level Irish dancers.

Classes for Prelim and Open Champion level Irish dancers.

A class for any adult interested in a social group dancing experience! No experience necessary, all levels welcome, this class has an emphasis on fun and laughter while moving together to great tunes. Some footwork basics are taught at the start of the evening, followed by a group Ceili hour. “Ceili” dancing is the term used for group dances, mostly considered the party or social dances in Irish culture. Offered in 6-8 week sessions in Fall, Winter and Spring.

Dance classes for Ages 3 – 4 yrs, geared toward the preschool mover in your family! Children ages 3 and 4 will explore movement and the foundations of dancing such as stretching, skipping, jumping, hopping, balance, galloping, tippy toes, steady beat movement, and the basics of Irish dancing steps. Offered in 6-8 week sessions in the Fall, Winter, and Spring. This class is capped at 6 dancers per session.