On October 19, 2024, we had the incredible honor of participating in the 2nd Annual Monmouth Arts Folklife Showcase at Freehold Raceway Mall. This vibrant event united our community to celebrate the rich tapestry of arts, culture, and heritage. The energy was contagious as our dancers brought traditional Irish dance routines, intricate footwork, and dazzling costumes. We were thrilled to share the beauty of Irish dance and contribute to this joyous celebration of diversity!
Cultural Highlights
From Greek and Mexican dance troupes to Native American storytelling and powerful drumming, the Folklife Showcase was a beautiful tribute to cultural unity. A heartfelt thank you to the organizers for creating such an inclusive event that highlights the unique threads of tradition in Monmouth County.
The Hellenic Dancers of New Jersey: Showcasing traditional Greek dance with vibrant costumes and uplifting music.
The Redhawk Native American Arts Council: A powerful performance rooted in storytelling and cultural preservation.
Pipes and Drums Band of the Atlantic Watch: Filling the mall with the stirring sound of bagpipes and drums.
Calpulli Mexican Dance Company: Dazzling the crowd with colorful skirts and intricate footwork.
Baiano-Capoeira Sol Nascente USA: Blending martial arts, music, and dance in a unique Brazilian tradition.
Peruvian Community of Freehold: Celebrating Peru’s vibrant heritage with a mix of music and movement.
Portuguese-American Singer Julia Machado: Sharing soulful melodies that connected deeply with the audience.
We are so proud of all our dancers who participated—you did an amazing job! And a huge thank you to our supportive parents for making these performances possible!
Curious About Joining Our Dance Community?
- Children’s Irish Dance Classes: Open to all ages—from the youngest tots to teens! We focus on perfecting dance skills while also having fun, building friendships, and fostering a strong sense of community. Plus, there are opportunities to perform and compete.
- Reel Robics for Adults: Looking to stay fit, relieve stress, and have fun? Our Reel Robics class is perfect for you! It’s a fantastic way to move your body, boost those happy hormones, and get out of the house. No prior dance experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm!
We look forward to welcoming new members to our dance family. Sign up today and experience the joy of Irish dance!
Cathleen Dower
Founder of The Fitzgerald School of Irish Dance
Promoting traditional Irish step dancing in Central New Jersey, we offer classes for both children and adults! Our goal is to help students build confidence, form lasting friendships, and improve endurance and flexibility, all while having fun performing and mastering the art of Irish dance. Join us to experience the joy of movement and the rich cultural heritage of Ireland!
