The Stewart School

of Irish Dance has been in operation for over 30 years and has several dancers who have qualified and successfully competed at both National and World levels.

Classes are offered in five locations throughout the Greater Vancouver area to students aged 4 to adult. Each class is divided by level (beginner/intermediate and advanced).

Stewart School hosts an annual Feis every June on Fathers Day Weekend, where 600+ dancers from across North America compete.

It's not all about classes and competing though. The black, green and pink of the Stewart school are often seen throughout the Lower Mainland at special events, such as the Highland games or Canada Day celebrations. Stewart dancers also participate in a number of community events - whether it be a dance festival, a patriotic parade, St. Patrick's day dance-outs or simply entertaining in nursing homes and hospitals. Our annual "Day in Killarney" show offers the dancers a stage on which to display their talents to family, friends and anyone interested in seeing the Stewart School perform.


The Teacher

Magdalene Stewart
Magdalene Stewart TCRG ADCRG (nee. McCann) was born in Belfast N. Ireland and started her dancing career at age 10 under the direction of her teacher Vourneen O'Connor. During this time she won many awards and was the first dancer from her school to win at the All Ireland. Magdalene toured Ireland with many entertainers including Ruby Murray, Patrick O'Hagan and Eileen Donaghey and danced as far away as Bavaria.

During the fundraising for the Bavarian trip Magdalene met the love of her life Edmond Stewart also from Belfast and they married and had 4 children. Deciding to leave bombs and bullets behind, the Stewarts immigrated to Canada and settled in Vancouver where Magdalene was urged to teach and so started the Stewart School of Irish Dance in 1974.

TCRG stands for Teagascóir Choimisiúin Le Rinci Gaelacha, and indicates that the teacher has been certified by the Irish (Gaelic) Dance Commission as an instructor. Only dancers studying under a TCRG can compete at feiseanna.

ADCRG is the certification for adjudicating at Irish dance competitions.