Irish dancing school produces four world champions

An Irish dancing school saw four of its students become world champions in their age categories at the World Irish Dancing Championships.

BrosnaCan Academy is an Irish dancing group, holding classes for beginners through to open champion dancers, based at Alleyns School in Dulwich on Thursdays.

In September, four of its students won gold in their categories at the championship in Barking, while a further two managed top ten placements in other categories.

Senior world champion Rhiannon Cappa, 22, who lives in Peckham, said: “Winning last year was amazing but to retain my title was a dream come true.

“It was tough age group and I couldn’t believe I came out with a perfect score of 500. I still can’t believe it.”

The under-10 boys world champion, Lakeland Sheehy, aged nine, who lives in Forest Hill, said: “It felt amazing to won the worlds. When I heard my name being called out first I was so excited.

“I love dancing and I love competing, I was with other boys in my age group who are my friends and we had a great time.”

Lakeland’s sister, Eva-Celeste, 13, made their parents doubly proud by winning her age group title.

She said: “I was extremely nervous as I won last year. I felt confident because I had a dress and had prepared lots. 

“I was so happy to keep my title. My highlight was having my nanny and family there and that I made them so proud.”

U16 World Champion Ciara Lemming, 17, who lives in Basildon but travels all the way to Dulwich to practice, said: “After months and months of hard work, when it was announced I had won I just cried so much, I was so happy.

“My friends from school were there and that made it even more special. It still feels weird telling people I’m a world champion.”

The school has also been nominated dance school of the the year twice in a row.

Pictured top: Senior World Champion Rhiannon Cappa, left and U16 World Champion Ciara Lemming (Picture: BrosnaCan Academy)