Kate Flanagan 218 West Wabasha Winona MN 55987 (507) 457-1477 (507) 454-3956 fax (507) 457-1633 kflanaga@smumn.edu Work Samples Video: video clip 1 (higher bandwidth, DSL, ISDN, T1) video clip 1 (lower bandwidth, 56K) video clip 2 (higher bandwidth, DSL, ISDN, T1) video clip 2 (lower bandwidth, 56K) To view the work samples, Windows Media Player is required. If you do not have it installed, you can download it for free here: Download Windows Media Player

Flanagan Irish Dancers Irish dance Our group features young dancers (typically aged eight to eighteen years) who perform traditional Irish step dances, figure dances and céilí (KAY-lee) dances. The number of dancers may range from six to fourteen or more, depending upon the circumstances. We retain the soul and tradition of the folk art and also display the more contemporary footwork which has kept Irish dancing an exciting, ever-evolving tradition. We attempt to tailor a performance to the needs of the presenter. We can provide entertainment, education, or a combination of both. Audience participation sections, complete dance workshops, or presentations on the history and evolution of Irish dance, are welcomed possibilities. Seeing our young dancers, members of yet another generation, continuing the rich tradition of Irish dance is exciting and enriching. Available: September to May, weekends and evenings if the distance makes it possible; June to August, anytime; no mileage restrictions if scheduling allows and if appropriately compensated Space: Minimum of 20 by 20 ft.; a level, smooth, non-carpeted surface (preferably wood) and a sound system with at least one microphone Fee: Negotiable

Additional Information:
Kate's interest in Irish dance comes from her family. Her grandfather who knew some Irish dancing taught her the first steps. At about 10 years of age, Kate began to take formal lessons from Pat Roche in a Chicago parish hall. Pat, who was the main instructor of Irish dance in the Chicago area during the 1940's and 50's, taught in multiple locations throughout the city.

In 1976, Kate's early training bore fruit when the Irish Dancing Commission in Dublin certified her as an Irish dance instructor. Later, she earned a Ph.D. in Arts and Cultural Affairs Administration from The Union Institute in Cincinnati. Her dissertation studied the history and promotion of Irish music and dance in her native Chicago.

When Kate moved to Winona after her marriage, there was no Irish dance in the area. In 1972 when some local people expressed an interest, Kate, who had formerly helped teach Irish dance in Chicago, was encouraged to start a small class. In the past few years, the classes have really grown. She thinks it is due in part to pop culture's current interest in Irish dance and Irish culture in general. Kate notes that this current Gaelic revival is taking place about 100 years after the renowned Gaelic Revival started in 1893.

The most advanced dancers in the Flanagan School of Irish Dance comprise the traveling dance company. They perform for many nursing homes, civic occasions, schools and church related activities. They host their own ceili around St. Patrick's Day. As there are not many Irish organizations in Winona, the group frequently serves as an Irish cultural ambassador.

Each year there are numerous feiseanna (Irish dance competitions) conducted around the country. Although Kate's students have participated in these events, she emphasizes the performance aspect of dance rather than the competitive aspect. She provides disciplined training so the dancers will accurately demonstrate the intricacies of this folk art. The dancers wear beautifully embroidered costumes while performing hard and soft shoe Irish dances. They reflect the tradition and the future of Irish dance.