Wesley Learning Center welcomed five dancers and two instructors from The Gray School of Irish Dance on March 9. Children who attend the Sandy Hook preschool enjoyed a presentation of six dances, one presentation by one of the instructors, and then participated in a brief workshop during the special event.

Christina Dolzall, a dancer and Gray School instructor, greeted the children and their teachers.

“We're very happy to be here for you this morning, to do some Irish dancing for St Patrick's Day,” she said.

Participating in the special event were Deirdre Smith of Newtown, Mary Beth Hayes of Southbury, and sisters Colleen, Genevieve and Sarah Mallon of Danbury.

The dancers, who ranged in age from 8 to 21, offered a single jig, a reel, a slip jig, a light jig, and a treble jig. The girls danced in varying pairs and trios, after Ms Dolzall introduced each dance style.

Children were encouraged to try to clap along to the beat of each performance. While most tried, it appeared more enjoyable for most to instead watch the dancers in front of them. The youngsters were also enthralled with the dresses worn by the dancers, and talked among themselves about the colorful and intricate patterns of the dancers’ outfits.

Ms Dolzall explained that some dances would feature light shoes, which would lead to quieter footwork by the dancers. Other dances, she said, would have dancers wearing hard shoes, which lead to the louder footwork often associated with Irish step dancing.

In addition, Craig Ashurt, who is also an instructor at the celebrated dance school, offered a solo performance. Children were awed by Mr Ashurt’s very rapid footwork, and clapped loudly following his demonstration.

Following a final dance that featured all five of the young dancers, the Wesley Learning Center children were invited to join Ms Dolzall, Mr Ashurst and the dancers for a brief dance workshop.

This story, and the accompanying photo captions, has been updated to include the names of all of the dancers who participated in the March 9 program.