Dream come true for Kildare dancers who became 'Disney performers' for a day

A group of over 200 people travelled to Paris to cheer on the young stars on the big stage.

Speaking to the Leinster Leader/Kildare Live, dance teacher Michelle Morrissey said: "We honestly can’t put it all into words what this trip meant to us, but we will certainly try our best. When the Morrissey School of Irish Dancing was set up, the hope was always to spread our love of Irish dancing to children and adults in Monasterevin and the surrounding areas. It was set up for our dancers to learn the art of Irish Dance, compete, take part in shows, dance just for fun, for fitness or just to make friends.

"We never thought we would be so lucky to get to compete on such a huge stage. To have a group of 207 people travel to Paris to see our 47 superstars take the stage was without a doubt one of the best feelings in the world."

Earlier this year a fundraising drive was launched to help cover the costs of the trip and Mary said the support shown was overwhelming. 

"This would not be possible without the support of all those who donated to the kids to travel to Paris. The donations from far and wide to each individual was phenomenal. We honestly can’t thank you all enough for all your generous donations to the idonate, our sponsorship cards and our collection in SuperValu. Thank you so much to our local businesses that donated to the group."

Mary thanked Mountmellick Credit Union, Earleys Fashion, FACE credit consultancy, Brennans Bar, Monasterevin Credit Union, Fosters Coaches, Courtwood GAA and Monasterevin Pharmacy for their support. 

"To the parents/guardians of our dancers, thank you. The commitment it takes from you all is astonishing. It really doesn’t go unnoticed- from having the kids at each practice, having them turned out so amazing and all the hard work put in at home, we love you all. And finally the superstars themselves. You were all absolutely FANTABULOUS as Disney told us themselves," added Mary.

"The hard work and dedication you all put in from the very first day was phenomenal. To see you all grow from the first day as individual dancers to come together like you all did made us (once again) burst with pride.

"Seeing you all around Disney over the few days, making memories that will last a lifetime, the thrill of the rides with all your bestest friends. You are the most incredible group of dancers and we are the luckiest teachers in the world to have you all. You are more than just dancers to us, you are more like family and we can’t thank you all enough for making our dreams a reality."