About Us

The O’Grady Quinlan Academy, originally based out of Bethlehem, PA, was founded in January 2005 by teachers Maureen O’Grady and Colleen Schroeder.  In December 2011, newly certified teacher Joanie Feeney Ohrt opened a location in Southern Maryland.  Joanie, registered with An Chomhdhai (Dublin, Ireland), is  excited to be the first certified TCRG holding classes in Southern Maryland.  

TCRGs Joanie & Colleen have been the best of friends through Irish Dancing since childhood, having met at competitions many years ago.  The two always dreamed of teaching together, and it was only natural that Joanie join the teaching staff at O’Grady Quinlan.  At OGQ, we know the importance of positive life values in the overall development of the child as dancer, and young adult. We provide many opportunities for performance and community involvement to aid in teaching the dancers those values and showing the importance of sharing their talent and time with others.  We also provide great success in the competitive arena of Irish Dance.  Dancers at the academy have won numerous titles Regionally, Nationally, and Internationally.  

O’Grady Quinlan has built solid and lasting ties in Irish Dance communities across the world. The combined strengths of all the teachers offer students with unparalleled Irish dance experience, expertise, resources and possibilities. 

 The O'Grady-Quinlan Academy believes that the best interests of every student are served when all Academy members - dancers, teachers and parents - regularly affirm and strengthen the following: 

•  SUCCESS: We believe that "success" for all dancers is defined as doing the best you are capable of doing, on and off of the dance floor.
  
• POSITIVE LIFE VALUES: We strive to promote a challenging but supportive/nurturing environment guided by honesty, teamwork, fairness, caring and respect for self and others. We believe in fostering a motivational climate through a sensible balance of work and fun.
  
• COMPETITIVE EXCELLENCE: We are committed to providing our students with intensive competitive training with an emphasis on technical mastery.
  
• PERFORMANCE: We believe that performance is a valuable tool through which students strengthen their dance and teamwork skills, connect with the community, and enjoy their talent with others.
  
• COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY: We feel a strong sense of connection to our community, including those less fortunate, and look to build bridges of friendship and community through our dance.
  
• CULTURAL APPRECIATION: We deeply appreciate the art form of Irish dance and the roots of the tradition, and try to instill in each student a lifelong love and appreciation for the art and its roots.