ENTERTAINMENT SPOTLIGHT: Dance academy heading to national competition | News

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

“The North American Irish Dancing Championships in the world of Irish dancing is the biggest event on our continent, with the world’s best dancers seeking to qualify for the World Championships,” said Lena Gladkova-Huffman, owner of the Academy of Performing Arts. “So this event will have the best and highest standard of dancing and also live music for the highest level dancers.”

The group’s farewell will be on Saturday, June 22nd, but they will only compete on July 2nd, in Grapevine, Texas. Gladkova-Huffman said the group’s dance, “Kindred Spirits,” will delve 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 dances, percussive music, and more, between these two groups.

“This dance we present symbolizes empathy between two peoples and celebrates the mutual respect of two cultures,” said Gladkova-Huffman in a synopsis of the dance. “The culmination of this empathy and respect is a famous memorial in Cork. An eagle feather sculpture – called ‘Parental Spirits’ – pays homage to this historic act of kindness.”

Dancer Ella Mae Whisenhunt said she is looking forward to sharing this story of the Irish and Choctaw nation, as well as reminiscing and experimenting with her solos.

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

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

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

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

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