Cathleen Dower becomes the first certified Reel Robics USA instructor.
Cathleen fell in love with Irish Dance after seeing Riverdance live on Broadway at Radio City Music Hall in New York. From there, at the age of 12, she went on to study under the tutelage of Feldemia Davis at The Davis Academy of Irish Dance. She performed in events ranging from feisanna, to the Oireachtas, to local St Patrick’s Day parades. Cathleen continued her Irish Dancing throughout college with the Quinlan O’Grady Academy of Irish Dance for two years.
After transferring back to New Jersey for college, Cathleen started the Stockton Irish Dance club at Stockton University. There, they performed at local Irish festivals, parades, and cultural events. This is where she got her first taste of teaching and really developed a passion for it. After graduation, having spent a considerable amount of time in Corporate Marketing, Cathleen realized just how much she missed Irish Dance!
Upon being offered the opportunity to teach Irish dance at a local dance studio, she eagerly accepted. From there, She built a following, and when the owners decided to retire in 2017, Cathleen decided to strike out on her own. Over the last few years, she’s had many inquiries about Adult Irish Dance classes, and when she first started out, she only offered Adult Ceili dancing.
“I am so excited to be bringing Reel Robics to the Central, NJ area as I believe it to be the perfect combination of fun and fitness. Low impact enough that it’s suitable for all levels and ages, yet still provides a great workout that will have you kicking up your heels whilst dancing some Jigs and Reels!” -Cathleen
We’re delighted for Fitzgerald School of Irish Dance to be associated with Reel Robics. Stay tuned for more information on class availability. As always, contact us with any questions!