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The Richens/Timm Academy is one to the most recognizable and respected names in the World of Irish Dance. The Academy operates studios in Indianapolis & Kokomo, IN and Columbus & Dayton, OH. In 1994, shortly after retiring from competitive Irish Dance as the 1993 Senior Mends World Champion, John Timm committed to traveling weekly from Ohio to teach in Indianapolis. John's dedication to the Indianapolis group is witnessed by his nurturing of the school over the past decade from 25 dancers to its current enrollment of over 200 dancers. With the additional commitment of his wife, Heather, they were able to expand the Academy offerings to include a second evening of classes, classes focused on competitive and show group dancing, as well as adult social Irish dancing classes. The teaching staff also includes former Academy students and champions themselves, Liz Donahue and Meghan Barmann. Dancers from the Academy entertain thousands annually including performances at the Indy Irish Fest and various venues throughout the area. Students have also performed with bands such as the Chieftains, Natalie MacMaster, and Eillen Ivers of Riverdance fame. Several Academy alumni have gone on to professional careers touring with both Riverdance and Lord of the Dance and the list continues to grow! Known for its outstanding success in the competitive arena, the Academy has produced an average of 10 World Qualifiers each year over the past decade. Throughout the history of the Academy great success has been achieved in group dancing. However, the success of the Academy in the individual categories has been astounding. There have been 36 Regional Champions, 8 North American Champions, and 1 All-Ireland Champion with 2 Runner-up finishes as well. Indianapolis had its first Regional Champion this year and sent 3 qualifiers to this year's World Championships in Ennis, Ireland. On the biggest stage of all, the annual World Championships, dancers from the Academy have won a staggering 28 medals, including 23 top 10 finishers; 11 top 5 finishes; 7 top 3 finishes; and 1 elusive World Championship title...could your child be next?

The curriculum at the Academy focuses on all aspects of Irish Dance. From solo to team, from children to adult, from social to competitive. There is something for everyone at the Richens/Timm Academy. All classes in Indianapolis are held in the Richens/Timm Studio in Washington Square Mall located in the Sears wing, across from Champs. For more specific information about the Richens/Timm Academy of Irish Dance please visit their web site on our links page.