About Vanshaw Academy

Vanshaw Academy of Irish Dance was formed in 2022 by Stephanie Henshaw. Stephanie has been in the Irish Dance community for over 20 years and brings an enthusiasm for sharing Irish Heritage and culture in a new modern era. Offering Irish Dance Classes in SW and SE Calgary we are the only Open Platform Irish Dance school in Calgary offering students the opportunity to compete in a fun and flexible format.

Vanshaw Academy of Irish Dance offers classes both recreationally and competitively. Students have the option to compete in digital competitions as well as live competitions in Canada, the USA, UK, and all over the world. Students who choose not to compete can experience progression and advancement through a focus on personal goals for progression through class levels to improve technique and learn new dances with increasing difficulty as they advance through their dance careers. Dancers will continuously be challenged throughout their time with Vanshaw Academy to provide every opportunity for advancement and to help each dancer reach their personal goals and potential.

Dancers work throughout the year on traditional solo and Ceili (group) dances as well as work on modern performance pieces for our annual showcase each year.

Vanshaw Academy strives to be a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals regardless of age, abilities, and goals where all students and families can expect to form lifelong bonds and friendships within our dance community.

IIDA Member
The Vanshaw Academy of Irish Dance is a registered member of the Independent Irish Dance Association

The main purpose of IIDA is to provide a community for teachers participating in Open Platform Organizations to ensure all dancers and teachers have the tools to compete and be informed on open platform Irish dance.