Welcome to Foley Academy of Irish Dance!
At Foley Academy, each dancer’s journey is fueled by determination, dedication, and a deep love of Irish Dance. We provide a motivating, goal-driven environment that supports growth in both skill and character. Under the expert guidance of Director Shannon Foley, TCRG, students build the strength, precision, and technique that define Irish Dance—surrounded by a community that values encouragement, support, and shared success.
Our dancers form lasting friendships, develop resilience, and take pride in mastering both traditional and modern choreography. With a clear path from first feis to major championships, Foley dancers have consistently delivered strong, competitive performances at regional and National competitions and are recognized for their excellence in both solo and Ceili dancing. Read more about their achievements here.
Why Join Foley Academy?
Foley Academy offers a dynamic and competitive Irish Dance program where dancers are challenged to grow in skill, strength, and confidence. From day one, our students are immersed in a supportive environment that fosters high achievement—whether they’re preparing for their first feis or training for the Regional Oireachtas or National Championship stage.
Our dancers regularly compete at local feiseanna along the East Coast, with opportunities to advance to regional and national-level events. Also, Foley dancers stay connected to the joy of performance, participating in parades, seasonal shows, and community events throughout the year. Highlights include Celebrate Reston, the Reston Multicultural Festival, the Reston Holiday Parade, and our biannual recitals.
As a certified Irish Dance school, Foley Academy offers a clear path from beginner to championship levels, guided by experienced instruction and a focus on individual and team success. We believe in building strong dancers—and even stronger bonds within our community.
Our History
Shannon Foley, a Certified Irish Dance Teacher (TCRG) with the An Coimisiun Le Rinci Gaelacha (CLRG) in Dublin, Ireland, and member of the Irish Dance Teachers Association of North America (IDTANA) and the IDTANA – Southern Region, opened Foley Academy of Irish Dance in 2017.
Ms. Shannon selected Reston, VA to be Foley Academy’s home because of the town’s strong sense of community and dedication to diversity, as well as the opportunities that the dancers have to bring joy to their community through their dancing. Since opening, Foley Academy has expanded its performance and competition opportunities so that dancers are fully engaged in all of the experiences that are available.
For more about Ms. Shannon, or to book a performance, take a look at About Us
Enroll in our 2026 Winter Session!