Learn the Irish Way at UWM

MILWAUKEE -Flashing, whirling, stomping feet, moving in time to the bang of the bodhran and the lilt of the Irish fiddle.

Uplifted voices singing in Gaelic.

People of all ages can learn to perform Celtic arts they thought could be performed only by Michael Flatley of "Lord of the Dance" or Irish folk musician Tommy Makem.

The Irish Fest Summer School Program at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee (UWM) August 11-16 offers classes in Irish step dances and ceilis, bodhran, fiddle, tin whistle, harp, knitting, weaving, Celtic spirituality, mythology and genealogy --anything your "Erin Go Bragh" heart could desire.

"This program is important because of the variety of classes," says Jane Walrath, director of the summer school for more than 10 years. "It's one of a few summer schools that focuses on lots of aspects of Irish culture, as well as having a full children's program."

For those who don't know what a bodhran is (a kind of Irish drum) or what a ceili dance looks like, there are beginning classes for children, young adults, and adults. Advanced classes for returning students explore the intricacies of these crafts and instruments.

Sixteen year-old Sean O'Donnell of Chicago has taken beginning Gaelic, beginning bodhran and tin whistle at the summer school.

"I liked the classes because the teachers don't rush you," says O'Donnell. "If you can't handle something or don't know how to do it, they walk you through it."

Started in 1986 as a response to interest from Irish Fest-goers, the summer school has been a popular choice for individuals and families from around the world for 16 years. The school is the largest of its kind in the U.S.

Enrollment has grown from 150 students to over 500 each summer. According to Barbara Breed-Heidt of the UWM Center for International Studies, participants come from all over the world, including Ireland and even the Arctic Circle region of Canada.

Instructors are experts in their respective fields. Many, like "Celtic Spirituality" instructor Padraigin Clancy, come directly from Ireland to teach, while others, like flute teacher Jimmy Noonan, come from colleges in the U.S.

Breed-Heidt is the UWM liaison for the program, which is co-sponsored by Irish Fest and UWM. She works in conjunction with Irish Fest, providing information to the public and registering students. Both children ages 6-13 and adults sign up in equal numbers. The day camp offered for children is ideal for families who want to experience the program, says Breed-Heidt, and many families return year after year.

"The day camp for the little ones frees up time for Mom and Dad," she says. "That way they can enjoy the program too."

The day camp runs from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday. For a fee of $195, children can choose from a variety of classes, including knitting, step dance, tin whistle, beginning bodhran, and beginning Gaelic.

Breed-Heidt believes the summer school provides an important link to their heritage for many people. What about those who are simply Irish in spirit? Is there a place for them amongst the true-blooded Irish?

"Absolutely!" says Breed-Heidt.

Registration must be received by August 3 to avoid late registration fees. Forms and class information are available at the Irish Fest Web site (www.irishfest.com/summerfest) or by calling (414) 229-5879.

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