ABOUT HAGEN IRISH DANCE

The Hagen School of Irish Dance welcomes boys and girls of all ages and all levels of commitment, from the recreational dancer to the serious competitor. With convenient locations in Long Beach and Rockville Centre, the Hagen School has so much to offer youngsters. The goal is to promote Irish heritage and culture through the medium of dance. The classes range from the tots class (3-4 years) to championship classes. There are even Saturday morning classes available!

The Hagen School is directed by Jean Hagen Duffy, A.D.C.R.G., which means she is a certified Irish Dance teacher and adjudicator by the Irish Dancing Commission in Dublin, Ireland. Jean has a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education and over 20 years of experience working with children. Since the school opened in 1999, the school has produced many Regional and National champions and several World medal holders.

The Hagen School of Irish Dance is a competitive school. Each week we encourage students to improve their skills, expand their creativity and increase their strength. This philosophy fosters discipline and helps dancers achieve their goals. We encourage our dancers to compete often in feissanna (competitions) all over the tri-state area.

Throughout all of the preparation and travel the dancers and their families develop long-lasting friendships. Students and parents from the HSID have traveled to Boston, Philadelphia, Toronto, Nashville, San Diego, Ottawa, Orlando, Ireland, Scotland and England for the various championships. The dancers have been tremendously successful at all of these competitions and have made priceless memories.

When not competing, the dancers keep busy performing at various venues throughout the year. Some of our latest shows include: Inside the NFL on HBO, ESPN Top Ten Highlights, and the Army Half-time show at West Point, Six Flags/Great Adventure Dance Festival, Aqueduct Racetrack & the Racing Channel, Irish Night at Shea Stadium and guest performances with Trinity Irish Dance Troupe. The Hagen School students also take the time to perform at many benefits and fund-raisers. They have danced for the Long Island Advocates, The Francis Pope Foundation and at various colleges and many nursing homes.

Here at the Hagen School, not only is Irish step dancing learned, friendship and team spirit is stressed as well. Students are very supportive and respectful of one another. The dancers work hard and are challenged to do their best not only by their instructors, but also by their classmates. All of us at the Hagen School are dedicated to preserving and expanding the beautiful art form and wonderful tradition of Irish dance.