Interview with adult Irish dancer Lia Avetisyan from Germany - PHOTOS

Lia:  My journey started over three years ago, when I saw an announcement in one of the local forums that invited adults to a free trial lesson at Tir na nOg school in Munich. The announcement said “come even if you have two left feet”, which I thought sounded encouraging, because I had never had dance lesson before. I had wanted to learn Irish dancing for years, but I had no opportunity as there were no Irish dance schools where I lived, so I seized the chance, and have been dancing ever since. By now I have taken part in quite a few feiseanna, a show project, a number of summer camps and gigs. I had multiple injuries, and prizes, and I still think this was one of the best decisions I have made in my life.

Lia Avetisya, adult Irish dancer in Germany Photo: courtesy Lia Avetisyan

In fact, I consider Irish dancing something like a therapy. There have been quite a few times when I came to the class after having a stressful day, but my bad mood and worries disappeared about 10 minutes after we started dancing. Probably that has also to do with the fact that Tir na nOg has great teachers. I cannot remember a single lesson that was not full of fun, laughter and, of course, exercise.

Lia:  There are quite a few Irish dance schools in Germany, and I believe Tir na nOg is one of the biggest ones in Germany/Europe. There are no Irish dance schools in Armenia, unfortunately. 

Christy:  How do you feel connected to adult Irish dancers around the world?

Lia Avetisya, adult Irish dancer in Germany Photo: courtesy Lia Avetisyan

Lia:  I remember at one point in time, I had to move to another town for a few months because of my job, and one of the dancers who lived in that city immediately suggested to help out with everything I  needed. That was the first time I realized that once you become a part of Irish Dance, somehow you are connected with the dancers all over the world. Through Irish Dance I've met a lot of people, including one of my best friends, who are now a part of my life, and I’m very glad that they are.

Lia:  I like music with a good beat so if you see me tapping my feet on a subway train, under the table, next to a coffee machine, or skipping down the street then I must be listening to Beoga on my iTunes.

Lia Avetisya, adult Irish dancer in Germany Photo: courtesy Lia Avetisyan

Christy:  What do you think the future looks like for adult Irish dancers?

Lia:  I am very thankful to Shane McAvinchey, who made it possible for me to start dancing, and I think it’s fantastic that adults are given the chance to learn Irish dancing. I know that not all schools are offering adult Irish dance classes. However, I’m hopeful that more and more schools will open their doors for adults. Dancing is not only about competition, it’s an art and you can never be too old for art.

Christy:  Thanks Lia and happy dancing!