The Brooks Academy of Irish Dancing has been a beacon of cultural excellence since its inception in 1997. Originally known as the Boyd School before its merger in 2017, this local dance academy continues to flourish under the expert guidance of Ian Boyd.
Ian, a seasoned professional with a deep-rooted passion for Irish dancing, has been involved in the art form since childhood. Competing on the global stage, he earned his TCRG qualification with CLRG in 1997 and his ADCRG adjudication qualification in 2009. His illustrious career has taken him around the world, judging competitions and sharing his vast expertise in places like Australia, Hong Kong, France, the USA, Canada, Ireland, and various locales across the UK.
The Academy’s reputation is underlined by its impressive list of champions. Currently, they boast reigning titleholders in the U9 Boys, U12 Girls, and U19 Men categories, including Great Britain, British National, American National, and Southern England Champions.
Offering classes for children as young as three to adults at all levels, the Academy nurtures aspiring dancers toward professional excellence. Alumni have graced stages worldwide in productions like Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, Magic of the Dance, and Rhythm of the Dance. One notable dancer, Aoife, who has been with the Academy for ten years, recently returned from a US tour with Murphy’s Celtic Legacy and now assists in teaching, passing on invaluable professional insights to the next generation.
Ian Boyd’s inclusive teaching approach ensures that the Academy embraces diversity. The classes cater to children with partial hearing, ADHD, Autism, Hyper Mobility, and various other conditions. A heartwarming example of Ian’s commitment shared with us at The Swindonian is a young boy whose mother promised Ian a bottle of wine if he could master the beginner’s reel. The child is now on his fourth dance, and Ian is owed four bottles of wine—a testament to his remarkable teaching skills.
The Brooks Academy of Irish Dancing stands as a vibrant testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Swindon, inspiring dancers of all ages and abilities to achieve their dreams.
Written by Andrew Penfold
