The Ashurst Academy of Irish Dance is proud to announce its opening on June 1, following a recent purchase of Newtown and Danbury studio locations from Gray School of Irish Dance. Its new owners, and former faculty members of the purchased locations, Craig and Christina Ashurst, are renowned dancers, choreographers and instructors in the Irish dance community.ashurstirishdance.com, send email to ashurstirishdance@gmail.com, or call 203-928-0689.

The Ashurts collectively hold over 25 solo Irish dance championship titles at the regional, national and international levels.

The married couple have both also performed professionally throughout the world, touring with Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance, in which Christina danced a lead role, and international sensation Riverdance, in which Craig danced in the lead role. Their performances have brought them to prestigious stages including Radio City Music Hall in New York City, the Pantages in Los Angeles, and most recently the couple performed with Riverdance at The Bushnell theater in Hartford.

The goal of the Ashurst Academy is to offer the highest quality of instruction in both solo and team dancing and a positive and encouraging environment for learning.

Mr Ashurst, a native of Australia who moved to Newtown in 2012, says, "At the Ashurst Academy, students will acquire poise, confidence and sportsmanship, all while developing their skills as Irish dancers. They will have the opportunity to showcase their talents in competition as well as seasonal performances at schools, local businesses, nursing homes, and community events."

The Ashurst Academy of Irish Dance will hold classes and summer camps for both boys and girls, and also offers adult "Celtic Cardio" classes. Dancers will be given the opportunity to compete at the local, regional, national, and world competition levels as individuals as well as on ceili teams.

Prior to their recent acquisition, the Gray School studios were owned and directed by Iris Gray Sharnick, who built a legacy of excellence and tradition for nearly 40 years. The school was home to many regional and national champions and world medal holders in both solos and teams.

Mrs Sharnick, formerly of Newtown, says, "Our many years together both professionally and personally inspire confidence that the Ashurst Academy of Irish Dance will carry on the traditions of the Gray School with integrity, passion and superior skill with their school. The Gray School has always been a business centered around family, and it delights us to know the future of its students is safe in the hands of a family."

Longtime Newtown resident Christina Dolzall-Ashurst says, "Craig and I look forward to sharing our passion and enthusiasm for Irish dancing with future generations of dancers and their families."

Ashurst Academy will hold a grand opening celebration and open house on Saturday, June 4, from 12:30-2 pm, at 3 Simm Lane Studio 3L1 in Newtown. Visitors will be able to meet the teachers and see them perform, as well as receive a trial lesson, and enjoy snacks and refreshments.

Students enrolled that day will receive a Team Ashurst teddy bear.

The academy's Danbury location is at the Danbury War Memorial, 1 Memorial Drive.

For information on the Ashurst Academy, visit