The Clark Academy of Irish Dance

★★★★★Abigail Llewellyn

Clark Academy of Irish Dance is amazing! MJ is truly the best of the best, not only is she an incredible teacher, but she makes every dancer feel special. She’s created a dance school that feels like one big family, and it’s clear how much she cares about her students. The environment is welcoming and encouraging, which helps dancers feel comfortable stepping out of their comfort zone and trying new things. The atmosphere is so positive, and the dancers not only learn Irish dance, but also gain confidence and friendships that last.

★★★★★Bridget Shea Westfall

My Irish dance student lives in Northern Virginia and was beyond excited to begin hard shoe classes. He was especially looking forward to purchasing his first pair of hard shoes with his grandmother. As we prepared for this next step, I knew how important it was for him to be properly fitted for hard shoes. My mom is a retired drama teacher and knows all the dance stores in the St. Louis area. I reached out to my dance network in my hometown of St. Louis, where my son was visiting for the summer. A college sorority sister and fellow dance teacher referred me to Mary Jo and her Irish dance studio. We both understand firsthand the importance of trying on shoes in person, especially with something as specific as hard shoes. We also know how quickly costs can add up, so buying used when possible, and supporting a fellow dance family and a small business was a win-win. After calling every dance shop in St. Louis, plus those in the DC and Baltimore suburbs, Mary Jo was the only one who not only welcomed us in but truly understood the importance of a proper fitting. She was kind, patient, incredibly knowledgeable, and made the experience easy and enjoyable, not just for me, but for my mom and husband (who isn’t from St. Louis and appreciated her clear guidance on how to get to the studio during summer camp). Mary Jo went above and beyond to make sure we felt confident and informed. And let’s be honest—how many people can say they were part of the touring company of Riverdance? Yes, that Riverdance—the show that introduced so many of us to Irish dance in the first place! Mary Jo clearly knows her craft, and it shows in every aspect of her customer service and professionalism. We are so grateful to have been referred to her by my sweet friend and even more grateful for her warmth, expertise, and generosity of time. If you’re in or near the St. Louis area--or even visiting family like we were--don’t hesitate to reach out to Mary Jo. Supporting a small business and an Irish dance family like hers makes all the difference. And I have one happy Irish dancer to show off his new "hard shoes".

★★★★★Harold Visser

We've been taking our kids here for the last few years. Making a two hour drive (each way)about once a week. Would not even think about transferring to a different Irish dance school. High quality dancing, great teachers family atmosphere.

★★★★★tamesis

I moved to St. Louis for the express purpose of transferring to this school, and BOY was it worth it. Mary Jo has been nothing but supportive in helping me reach my competitive goals (which I did!) and this lady KNOWS HER STUFF. Bonus: MJ has curated a community that truly feels like family. It's all good vibes. Join this school.

★★★★★Catie Zürcher

My daughter started dancing at The Clark Academy almost 1 year ago and our entire family loves it there! The Clark Academy is friendly, fun, welcoming, competetive, balanced... family! Mary Jo instills great values into all the dancers, teaching them life skills and also making them top knotch competetors. We love CAID. :)