Meet Maria Learning: Bringing Irish Dance Magic to MPSD Since… Well, Forever! ✨

Hey there! I’m Maria, and I’ve been twirling and tapping since I was just a wee 5-year old in Conception Bay South. But let me tell you, when I discovered Irish dance at 7, it was love at first jig!

My Dance Journey 👟

While I’ve dipped my toes (and feet!) into all sorts of dance styles, Irish dance stole my heart and never gave it back. For over 15 years, I’ve been perfecting my hard shoe and soft shoe skills. It’s been quite the adventure, and I’m still head over heels for every step and leap!

Current Adventures 🍀

Right now, I’m on an exciting quest to snag my TCRG teacher’s certification with An Coimisiún Le Rincí Gaelacha (that’s the Irish Dance Commission for those who don’t speak Gaelic!). It’s a big challenge, but hey, who doesn’t love a good dance challenge?

Globetrotting for Dance 🌍

In 2019, I jetted off to Ireland for the Irish Dance Festival. Talk about a dream come true! I got to learn from some of the world’s best Irish dance teachers. And as if that wasn’t exciting enough, I also attended the 2019 Eastern Canadian Regional Oireachtas. So much learning, so much fun!

Teaching Philosophy 🌟

All those amazing experiences? They’re not just for me! I’m thrilled to bring everything I’ve learned back to my students. We’re talking new steps, fresh inspiration, and a whole lot of Irish dance joy!

Education & Credentials 📚

• Masters in Applied Psychological Science from Memorial University (because dancers need big brains too!) • Currently pursuing TCRG certification with An Coimisiún Le Rincí Gaelacha • Over 15 years of Irish dance training • Attended the 2019 Irish Dance Festival in Ireland • Participated in the 2019 Eastern Canadian Regional Oireachtas

Performance Highlights 🎭

• Multiple productions of The Nutcracker (who doesn’t love a good Sugar Plum Fairy?) • Red Hot • Dance Teachers Association Awards • Our Divas Do Christmas (2016 and 2017) • Several 5678 Showtime and Dance Quest competitions

Beyond the Dance Studio ⭐

When I’m not in my dance shoes, you can find me working in Applied Health Research. It’s all about using that Masters in Applied Psychological Science to make a difference!

Ready to dive into the wonderful world of Irish dance? Let’s create some magic together, one step at a time! ✨