Classes
Teaching philosophy
At McNamara McCarthy, we focus on individualized instruction to keep students engaged and learning, and we champion teamwork so our dancers learn from and inspire their classmates. We model and instill self-confidence, poise, and collaboration skills, setting each MM dancer up for lifelong success, on and off the stage.
Minis (3- to 4-year olds)
MM Minis is a great introduction to Irish dance and classroom learning. Students will learn about balance, coordination, and body awareness through a range of exercises and basic Irish dance steps. Minis will have the opportunity to show off their skills by performing in local festivals and parades during their first year.
Beginners (5- to 12-year olds)
Our Beginner class is for children who are new to Irish dance. Like our Minis, we focus on developing balance, coordination, and body awareness. Beginners will learn Irish dance footwork, like the Irish jig and reel.
For dancers ready to take the next “step,” Beginners will have options to perform at community events, such as local festivals and parades, in their first year of classes.
Beginners will also have an opportunity to compete. There are several Irish dance competitions in the Milwaukee area throughout the year. MM dancers compete locally as Beginners, and as they gain experience, they will have the option to travel for competitions.
2026-2027 class offerings
Minis
| Ages | 3-4 years |
|---|---|
| Days | Mondays |
| Time | 4:30pm - 5:15pm |
| Dates | September 14, 2026 - July 19, 2027 |
| Cost | $874* |
Minis
| Ages | 3-4 years |
|---|---|
| Days | Tuesdays |
| Time | 4:30pm - 5:15pm |
| Dates | September 15, 2026 - July 20, 2027 |
| Cost | $874* |
Beginners
| Ages | 5-12 years |
|---|---|
| Days | Mondays |
| Time | 4:30pm - 5:30pm |
| Dates | September 14, 2026 - July 19, 2027 |
| Cost | $950* |
Beginners
| Ages | 5-12 years |
|---|---|
| Days | Tuesdays |
| Time | 4:30pm - 5:30pm |
| Dates | September 15, 2026 - July 20, 2027 |
| Cost | $950* |
Year at a glance
- September 14th - The first week of classes
- October - The first parents night/observation
- December - Dancer costumes are ordered
- March - St. Patrick’s Day performances and parade for Minis and Beginners
- May - The first competition for Beginners
- June 15th-18th - MM Summer Camp (Daytime)
Note: All events outside of weekly classes are optional.
*Cost is divided into twelve equal payments on the first of each month Sept - Aug. These costs are based on last year but will be similar for the upcoming year. We'll have our exact tuition cost once we finish our calendar for the year. Annual Family Registration Fee: $80 (charged on September 1st).
