COURT HOUSE – Seven local Irish dancers are dancing their way to Ireland to compete in the World Irish Dance Associations All-Ireland Competition. Four of the children, from right here in Cape May County, will be competing in this multi-national event. Hundreds of dancers will compete for trophies, medals, sashes and, of course, the title of being named the top Irish dancer.
Erica Waldron Hawk, proud mom of two of the young dancers explains that all of the kids dedicate approximately 20 hours a week perfecting their dance on top of being top students. Her daughter Madison, 17, says that Irish dance has been her passion ever since her church showed VHS tapes of ‘Riverdance’ and ‘Lord of the Dance’ when she was only three. “This is a way to connect with my culture,” Madison explains, “I love to dance and compete.”
The kids perform all over the area, including restaurants, festivals, parades, and schools. This June, the group will be competing in hard shoe and soft shoe dancing and championship rounds in Cork, Ireland representing Emerald Isle Academy of Irish Dance.
To contact Johanna Hovik, email jhovik@cmcherald.com.
