ENTERTAINMENT SPOTLIGHT: Dance academy headed to national competition | News

Students with the McCafferty Academy of Irish Dance are preparing to leave Tahlequah to compete in the 2024 North American Irish Dance Championships.

“North American Irish Dance Championships in the Irish dance world is the largest event on our continent, with the best dancers in the world seeking qualification for Worlds,” said Lena Gladkova-Huffman, owner of the Academy of Performing Arts. “ So this event will have the best, highest standard of dancing and also live music for the highest-level dancers.”

The group’s sendoff will be Saturday, June 22, but they will not compete until July 2 in Grapevine, Texas. Gladkova-Huffman said the group’s dance, “Kindred Spirits,” will be diving into the 1840s to depict when the Choctaw Nation sent funds to the Irish people during the potato famine. The money was sent as a gesture of humanity and solidarity.

The dance routine will show the parallels of suffering and traditions, such as group dancing, percussive music, and more, amongst these two groups.

“This dance we perform symbolizes empathy between two peoples and celebrates the mutual respect of two cultures,” Gladkova-Huffman said in a synopsis over the dance. “The culmination of this empathy and respect is a famous memorial in Cork. A sculpture of eagle feathers – called ‘Kindred Spirits’ – honors this historic act of kindness.”

Dancer Ella Mae Whisenhunt said she’s looking forward to sharing this story of the Irish and Choctaw Nation, as well as recalling and trying out her solos.

“I think this dance drama is a great opportunity for all dancers, older and younger,” Ella Mae said.

Gladkova-Huffman said the level of competition for which the group is preparing takes a great level of dedication, and the teams must perform as one.

“I learned that if you want to see results, you have to put in the work, and practice 65% of your day,” Ella Mae said.

The dancers have been preparing by going to local competitions, staying late and getting to the studio early, and conducting fundraisers, all while overcoming difficulties and working as a team.

“They are ready to represent a small town of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and a great historic moment of compassion between the Choctaws and the Irish,” Gladkova-Huffman said. “I am proud to be their mentor and their teacher, and humbled to have the opportunity to tell this story through dance.”