Each November, the New England Regional Irish Dance Championships, also known as the "Oireachtas," brings together top level dancers from across the six-state region to compete in solo championships, traditional sets and teams. It is one of the most prestigious events in the region, and also where championship level dancers qualify for the North American Irish Dance Championships and World Championships.ashurstirishdance.com or by calling 203-928-0689.

Local dancing school, the Ashurst Academy of Irish Dance, which holds classes in Newtown, Danbury and Southbury, was proud to send over a dozen dancers to this year's event, held in Providence, R.I. Academy co-directors Craig and Christina Ashurst were both championship dancers themselves, having won regional, national, and international titles before becoming certified teachers and touring the world as leads in "Riverdance" and "Lord of the Dance."

The dancing school was proud to return home following the 2016 Oireachtas with 15 medals in various events, including four podium placements in the traditional set competitions, nine top ten placements in traditional set and team competitions, and an overall championship medalist. Their championship dancers are now preparing to compete in the North American National Championships in New Orleans in July.

Of the medalists in the traditional set championships and team championships were Newtown natives Tess Brantl, Acadia Petersen, Britta Petersen, and Deirdre Smith.

Ashurst Academy, which opened in June, is currently enrolling a new beginner class for ages 4 and up, to begin in February in its Newtown location.

The academy is planning an open house with free mini lessons on Saturday, January 28, from 1 to 2:15 pm, at the Newtown location (3 Simm Lane 3L1).

Information on the academy can be found at