DANCE ON
Dance Ireland was full of energy on Monday 24 February at Dance On, a vibrant day-long celebration of creativity, movement, and community for dancers aged 50 and over.
Curated by Mia DiChiaro, Director of Macushla Dance Club 50+, the event brought together three leading dance groups from across Dublin: Vintage Youth Ensemble, Silver Swans, and Macushla Dance Club 50+.
The atmosphere was highly energetic as participants gathered for a rich day of movement workshops, an informative nutrition seminar, shared meals, and moving performances, all in a welcoming and joyful space that placed connection, wellbeing, and artistic expression at its heart. The connections between these incredible groups were strengtheend and as the impact of dance on our lives was celebrated.
“It was such a joyful experience and great to see how many people were enjoying the freedom and fun of dance.”
Barbara W., Participant
A Day of Dance, Wellness, and Connection
Dance On opened with a warm welcome over tea and coffee, followed by the energising WellDance Rise and Shine session led by Loretta Yurick and Robert Connor of Dance Theatre of Ireland. The morning continued with a tailored nutrition seminar by Kate McDaid (NutriKate) and participants enjoyed a light lunch before diving into the day’s second workshop: a unique Bollywood and Neuroscience session with Dr. Anusha Yasoda-Mohan.
The day culminated in inspiring performance sharings from each participating group, showcasing the passion, artistry, and creative vitality of older dancers.
A Shared Celebration of Dance
DANCE ON was a powerful reminder that dance is for everyone, at every age. It created a space where dancers could learn from one another, deepen their practice, and celebrate shared experiences through movement. With thanks to Dance Ireland and Dublin City Council for their generous support, and to all who made the day a success, this celebration leaves a lasting impression of community, creativity, and joy.
“Thank you all so much for a wonderful day – I enjoyed every minute!”
– Geralyn R., Participant
Schedule Highlights
WellDance Warm-Up
Nutrition & Wellbeing Talk
Bollywood & Neuroscience Dance Workshop
Performance Sharings by Silver Swans, Vintage Youth, and Macushla Dance Club 50+
About the Participants
Macushla Dance Club 50+
Established in 2006, Macushla is Dublin’s longest-running dance club for older adults. Based at Dance Ireland, Macushla offers free, high-quality weekly dance workshops led by professional artists. With a focus on creativity, community, and wellbeing, Macushla champions participant-led programming and fosters strong connections between members and the wider dance world.
“Dance class is my weekly tonic – great for body and mind. LOVE IT!”
– Eileen, Macushla Member
Vintage Youth Ensemble
Performance: Heart of the Matter
Formed through Dance Theatre of Ireland’s Well-Dance for Seniors classes, the Vintage Youth Ensemble is a dynamic group of 15 older adults who create and perform original dance works. At
DANCE ON, they presented an excerpt from their latest piece Heart of the Matter, inspired by the 2024 Booker Prize-winning novel Orbital and Carl Sagan’s “The Pale Blue Dot.”
“Thank you for a wonderful day and a great exchange! Everything was so well organised and so much fun.”
– Loretta and Robert, Co-Directors of Vintage Youth
Silver Swans
Developed by the Royal Academy of Dance, Silver Swans classes are designed for adults aged 55+. Led by Emma Mahony of The Odette School of Ballet, these welcoming ballet sessions improve posture, mobility, and energy while offering a supportive space for both beginners and experienced dancers.
“It is never too late to dance!”
For more information on participating dance groups:
Macushla Dance Club 50+
Contact: Mia DiChiaro at themacushladanceclub@gmail.com
Vintage Youth Ensemble (Dance Theatre of Ireland)
Contact: Loretta Yurick & Robert Connor at dancetheatreireland@gmail.com
Silver Swans (The Odette School of Ballet)
Contact: Emma Mahony at theodetteschoolofballet@gmail.com
Images by: Photography by Pointe Shots, Amanda Braide