Early Foundation

The O Rourke School of Dancing was founded in Limerick in 1929 by Mary and Margaret O Rourke and in the 1930s expanded to Clare with Margaret taking classes in Ogonelloe. Their young sister Una Ní Ruairc became a champion dancer and teacher at Scoil Uí Ruairc. The class passed into the hands of the second generation of the family when it was taken over by Áine Ní Thuathaigh (pictured right) and her sister Máirín.

Modern School

Scoil Uí Ruairc has been active in Ennis and at other venues in County Clare and Tipperary since 1965. Scoil Uí Ruairc now in its third generation will continue to promote all aspects of Irish music, song dance and language at home and abroad for many years to come, such is the commitment to passing on the tradition and creating performance opportunities for all its students.

Student Success

Students of Scoil Uí Ruairc have won Munster, All-Ireland and World titles, have played leading roles on Broadway but all of them have been encouraged to enjoy their dancing – integral to the ethos of the O Rourke School.