Siamsa Tíre operates two Folk Academies, one in Carraig in West Kerry (Teach Siamsa na Carraige), the other in Finuge in North Kerry. Children from the age of 7 to 12 are trained in the unique Siamsa tradition of music, dance, drama and song, with a view to becoming members of the Community Cast at Siamsa Tíre. Classes take place weekly from October to May. A fee per terms applies.
Successful candidates will receive formal classes in traditional Irish song, dance, music and mime at the Tithe Siamsa each week. Following a period of three years free tuition, the pupils will have an opportunity to become members of the performing company of Siamsa Tíre as well as receiving additional training in Tralee on a weekly basis.
Students who have completed the training offered by Siamsa Tíre have gone on to achieve national and international success as performers. Some have toured with Riverdance, whilst others, such as Justin Walsh have joined Michael Flatley’s unique troupe in his new production, The Celtic Tiger. A significant number of graduates from the course have completed the BA in Folk Theatre Studies in conjunction with the Institute of Technology in Tralee.
Auditions take place annually in September. Full details of audition dates and times will be published on this site in August. Those auditioning would need to demonstrate some previous interest in Irish music and/or dance, as this training is not for complete beginners.
