Cashel Academy of Irish Dance

About Cashel Academy of Irish Dance

Cashel Academy of Irish Dance, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, invites dancers of all ages to discover a lifelong passion for movement through traditional Irish dance. Led by a distinguished faculty including Kate Habel (TCRG), Laura Gottschlich (TCRG 1995), and Caitlin O’Connor (TCRG 2024), the academy offers a comprehensive curriculum for beginners through championship aspirants. Kate Habel expertly coaches the studio's Ceili teams and choreographs major productions, while Laura Gottschlich, with decades of experience, also contributes to dance medicine, working with local ballet companies and other Irish dance schools. Caitlin O’Connor, a former elite competitive dancer with world competition experience and a PhD in Physical Therapy, brings a unique blend of performance expertise and biomechanical knowledge. Our year runs from September through August, culminating in a performance at Irishfest. Registration is currently open for our Beginner Program, commencing in September with classes on Tuesdays from 5-6 PM. We also offer a nurturing Tiny Tots Program for children aged 3-5 years, focusing on coordination, confidence, and a love for dance in a supportive atmosphere, with classes held on Thursdays from 5-6 PM from February to early May. Dancers as young as 4-5 years old who can follow directions are welcome in the beginner classes, and our instructors are exceptionally understanding, encouraging every student to try their best. It's never too late to start or continue your Irish dance journey with us, as many dancers begin young and continue through high school, building lasting memories and friendships within our vibrant community. We prepare dancers for regional, national, and world competitions, fostering a high standard of performance and dedication.