Amanda Finnegan-
(TCRG)
Owner and Director of Finnegan Academy of Irish Dance & Reel Irish Entertainment
Amanda Finnegan's background, accomplishments and expertise in Irish Dance, Music and Gaeilge (Irish language) are unparalleled. This is mirrored by the success of the Finnegan Academy of Irish Dance and professional show, Reel Irish Entertainment in the four short years she has lived in the United States. Ms. Finnegan's passion for Irish Dance and dedication to her students success combined with her reputation in all aspects of Irish dance is apparent with enrollment ever on the rise at the soaring, Finnegan Academy of Irish Dance. Ms. Finnegan is proud to have grown the Finnegan Academy of Irish Dance from the ground up to today being Orlando's top-rated Irish Dance Academy under CLRG, the world's largest Irish Dance organization.
Ms. Finnegan was born and raised in Galway (West Ireland). Her love of Irish dance began at the early age of four. Having competed successfully at national and international levels, Amanda redirected her focus towards building her reputation as an Irish Step Dance choreographer and instructor. Ms. Finnegan has choreographed Irish Dance showcases internationally, bringing the Rhythm of Ireland to a multitude of countries around the globe and has danced professionally in various shows including the infamous Raglan Road right here in Orlando!
In 2019, Windermere arts presented Ms. Finnegan an award for 'Implementing Excellence in Irish Dance Instruction & Growing Irish Culture in Windermere'. Ms. Finnegan began the Finnegan of Irish Dance four years ago with one location in Windermere. Today, the Finnegan Academy of Irish Dance offers Irish Dance instruction to over 100 students at 9 studio locations throughout Orlando, as well as after school programs at nine of Orlando's most prestigious schools.
Growing up in Galway, Ireland, Ms. Finnegan was immersed in Irish dance, music and language from an early age. As well as dancing, Ms. Finnegan grew up in a household of musicians. She played the guitar, whistle and sang throughout her childhood. Ms. Finnegan went on to entertain audiences throughout Ireland as a professional musician, playing in a band for five years around Ireland before choosing a full time career as a professional Irish Dancer.
Ms. Finnegan attended Mary Immaculate College in Limerick, Ireland earning her a degree in Primary Education, Music and Gaeilge (Irish Language). Upon moving to USA Ms. Finnegan worked as an elementary school music teacher and mainstream teacher while simultaneously building the Finnegan Academy of Irish Dance and Reel Irish Entertainment from the ground up. During her time as an elementary school teacher in Orlando, Ms Finnegan was presented a 'Take Flight' award for her expertise and innovative approach towards providing students with a positive learning environment, a skill which she mirrors at the Finnegan Academy.
Ms. Finnegan is owner and director of 'Reel Irish Entertainment', an authentic Irish entertainment company comprising some of Ireland's best Irish Musicians and Dancers. Ms. Finnegan oversees the full show from bookings to auditions, choreography, wardrobes, stage scheduling and more. Reel Irish Entertainment perform at weddings, corporate functions, celebrations and special events throughout Florida.
Theresa Duplain -
(TCRG)
Theresa is a former Riverdance troupe member, winner of multiple regional top podium placements, and Irish Dance World Championship qualifier. She has a passion for sharing the world and tradition of Irish Dancing through teaching the generations to come.
Theresa has been a registered T.C.R.G. under CLRG since 2013. She first fell in love with the art and sport of Irish Dancing at the age of 7 and spent the next 25+ years committing herself to the dance, its lifestyle, and tradition.
During her competitive career, Theresa successfully competed at the regional, national, and international levels. Theresa has been a featured dancer in shows at Epcot, Disney World, and Raglan Road in Disney Springs. She is also a Registered Nurse and a Mother to her two daughters Charlie (7) and Claire (5).
Theresa is excited to teach at our Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch locations and is looking forward to working with the Finnegan Academy team!
Alec Martinez -
Teaching Assistant
Assistant teacher, Alec Martinez, joins the Finnegan Academy instructional team with a phenomenal CLRG competitive career. Highlights of which include Ceili & Solo Regional and National titles. Alec’s solo competitive career saw him earn his spot on the regional podium throughout his competitive dance career. Alec retired from competition in 2021 as a world qualifier having most recently placed 7th in the Southern Region and 14th in the Nation! Presently, Alec performs in shows throughout Florida as Lead Dancer with the show ‘Reel Irish Entertainment’!
Alongside his dance career, Alec has attained his doctorate in Physical Therapy with a previous bachelor's in exercise science. Having worked for Arizona State's Sun Devil Combat Sports program as a conditioning trainer with their athletes, Alec brings with him an in depth knowledge of conditioning and has specifically created a program to aid strength, performance and injury prevention for our Dancers in order to assist them in reaching their Irish Dance goals, full potential and peak on stage!
Kathleen McLoughlin -
Teaching Assistant
Assistant teacher, Kathleen McLoughlin has been dancing since the age of 4 and continues to compete with Finnegan Academy at Championship level within CLRG. So far in her competitive career, Katie has achieved soloist regional and national placements as well as recalling at All Ireland’s bringing home two placement medals.
Alongside her solo accomplishments, Katie has winning Regional titles as well as placing 3rd, 8th and 10th in the World for Ceili dancing.
Currently, Katie is competing as a senior lady at Finnegan Academy whilst, simultaneously working with Ms. Amanda toward obtaining her TCRG certification.
With 21 years of vibrant and dedicated experience in the world of Irish dance, Colm Alba is a seasoned performer, accomplished competitor, and devoted instructor. His journey through the captivating realm of Irish dance has not only been marked by numerous accolades but also by a profound love for the art form.
Colm's competitive spirit and unparalleled skill have led him to triumph as the Mid America Oireachtas Champion, achieving an impressive three-time placement within the top 10 at the North American Championships, and securing a coveted spot in the top 10 at the All Ireland Championships. His dedication to excellence and commitment to the craft shine through in every step he takes.
Beyond the competitive stage, Colm has graced professional productions, captivating audiences in shows such as "An Irish Christmas" and "Wings." His dynamic performances showcase not only his technical prowess but also his ability to convey the rich cultural storytelling embedded in Irish dance.
Colm's teaching journey began at the early age of 13, making him no stranger to the joy of sharing his passion with aspiring dancers. Over the years, he has cultivated a teaching style that blends technical precision with the joy and energy that make Irish dance so exhilarating. His genuine enthusiasm for passing on the traditions of Irish dance to the next generation is evident in every class he leads. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Education, Colm has seamlessly integrated educational principles into his dance instruction. His commitment to nurturing the potential within each dancer is a testament to both his passion for Irish dance and his dedication to fostering a supportive and educational environment.
Colm is thrilled to announce his affiliation with the esteemed Finnegan Irish Dance School. Eager to become a part of the Finnegan family, he looks forward to meeting each student and their families. The opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of aspiring Irish dancers at Finnegan fills Colm with excitement and gratitude.
Colm Alba
- Teaching Assistant
As well as teaching, all of our teachers still dance professionally in shows ensuring they are constantly on top of the game for teaching the most up to date movements, trends and tricks!
Teacher Action Shots
