Deirdre has been involved in Irish Dancing all her life as the daughter of an Irish Dancing Teacher. She is passionate about Irish Dance, music and fitness for children.
As Director of the Chaney Farrell Academy, Deirdre enjoys teaching children and adults the joy of Irish dancing at classes across South Dublin.
Participation in Irish Dancing has given Deirdre so many benefits in life; physical fitness and strength, competitive spirit, love of Irish Music, rhythm, confidence to perform on stage, friendships, travel and the opportunity to teach, adjudicate and grade dancers.
Deirdre achieved great competitive success winning 6 All-Ireland titles from the age of 11 until her retirement at 21. She also performed on TV and shows.
Deirdre qualified as a Teacher age 21 and went on to achieve Adjudication and Grade Examiner qualifications.
Deirdre holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Master of Business Studies Degrees from University College Dublin. She enjoyed a 20 year career in investment banking in Dublin’s IFSC and is also a qualified Tax Advisor and Mum to 3 children.
Bernadette started Irish Dancing at age 7 with the famous Ita Cadwell who gave her a fantastic classical foundation in Irish Dance. At age 13 she moved to the late Peter Bolton where she won all the major championships including the senior All Ireland at age 17. In those days the All Ireland was the ultimate and the senior age group was everybody above 16.
Bernadette enjoyed plenty of exposure on TV. She was the dancer most often on national television in her day and danced in several films and cabarets.
She took her TCRG at age 20 and her ADCRG at age 30. She also qualified as a Grade Examiner.
She produced many champions during her teaching career including her daughter Deirdre who won everything including 6 All Irelands and her daughter Caitriona who won Dublin and Leinster titles. She trained countless TCRGs (including 4 in Brazil) and ADCRGs. Bernadette has adjudicated extensively in Ireland, England, Scotland, Europe and USA.