‘The Super Bowl for Irish dance.’ Mercer County dancers prepare for St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick's Day is otherwise known as the culmination of a year's worth of work for dancers at the Kotelnicki School of Irish Dance.

News 12 Staff

Mar 4, 2023, 11:39 PM

Updated 662 days ago

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An Irish dance class in Mercer County has practice diligently ahead of the upcoming St. Patrick's Day celebrations.
"It's the Super Bowl for Irish dance," said Justin Kotelnicki, owner of the Kotelnicki School of Irish Dance.
St. Patrick's Day is otherwise known as the culmination of a year's worth of work for dancers at the school.
"We are preparing for performances, the main one being Hamilton Township St. Patrick's Day Parade" Kotelnicki says.
Precision and holding true to tradition are key, but on a day that's meant for celebration and rallying the community, the dancers say it’s OK to have a little fun too.
"St. Patrick's Day is really fun because you get to do the parade with your friends, all about having fun and getting in the spirit," says dancer Molly Foti.
For 13 years, the school has seen dancers who are just starting out to those at the world champion level. The school and lessons give the girl dancers an opportunity to grow side by side.
"My favorite part about it is spending time with my friends and learning new skills," says dancer Teagan Nunn.
Kotelnicki is encouraging anyone interested to sign up for dance classes.
"You do not have to be Irish to Irish dance," he says.