Meet Tara Barry-Phelan
World Irish Dance Champion, Riverdance Star, and the Heart Behind De Barra Academy
2 x World Champion
6 x All-Ireland Champion
Principal Dancer, Riverdance
Best Actress Nominee, National Broadway Theatre Awards
Featured Teacher, America’s Got Talent
From Cork to Global Stage
Tara Barry-Phelan’s journey began in County Cork, Ireland, where she first laced up her dance shoes at the age of three. Under the guidance of the Cowhie-Ryan School of Irish Dancing, Tara’s talent and determination shone through early on. By seven, she had won her first Munster Championship, and her passion for Irish dance had only just begun.
As a young competitor, Tara claimed two World Championship titles, six All-Ireland Championships, and a host of other prestigious accolades. Her natural talent and fierce dedication led her to the global stage, where she became a celebrated Principal Dancer with Riverdance, performing across continents and captivating audiences worldwide.
Dancing the World with Riverdance
Tara’s role as Principal Dancer took her from Dublin to New York’s Radio City Music Hall, Sydney, London, and beyond. With each performance, Tara brought the spirit of Irish dance to life, earning acclaim not only as a world-class dancer but also as a powerful ambassador of her culture.
Nominated “Best Actress” by the National Broadway Theatre Awards for her role as Principal Dancer, Tara’s impact on stage was as much about storytelling as it was about technical skill. Her journey with Riverdance defined a generation of Irish dancers and inspired countless audiences.
Continuing The Legacy
After years on the road, Tara transitioned from the stage to the studio, bringing her wealth of experience to dancers around the world. She began teaching workshops across the United States, Canada, Ireland, and England, sharing the techniques and passion that made her a champion.
As a mom of three competitive dancers herself, Tara understands the joys and challenges of the dance world. Her teaching style is rooted in her own experiences—balancing discipline with encouragement, tradition with innovation, and personal growth with competitive success.
Teaching with Heart
At De Barra Academy, Tara’s goal is to inspire each student to reach their fullest potential. She believes in teaching the whole dancer—not just the steps but the confidence, resilience, and love for the art form that define success both on and off the stage.
Tara’s unique blend of professional performance experience and personal mentorship creates a supportive environment where every dancer feels seen, valued, and encouraged to shine.
“Irish dance has been my life’s greatest journey—from the thrill of competing as a child in Ireland to performing on the world’s biggest stages with Riverdance. But my true passion lies in teaching, nurturing young dancers, and sharing the joy, discipline, and spirit of our art form. At De Barra Academy, my mission is to create a community where every dancer feels supported, inspired, and empowered to be their best, both on and off the dance floor.”
Tara Barry-Phelan
Fall Down Eight Times, Get Up Nine.
This motto emphasizes resilience, perseverance, and the values Tara instills in her students, both in dance and in life. It’s a powerful reflection of the academy’s teaching philosophy and approach to nurturing dancers of all ages.