‘This opportunity would mean everything to them’ — appeal to help 28 north inner-city children get to the Dance World Cup
Arkins Dance Academy seeking sponsors to help get them to the competition in Prague
Dublin dance group appeals for support to represent Ireland at The Dance World Cup finals
A group of 28 young dancers based in the heart of Dublin’s north inner city are appealing for help to get them to the Dance World Cup this summer.
Arkins Dance Academy, based on Seán McDermott Street, was founded 29 years ago by Francesca Arkins and has since been taken over by her daughter, Alysia.
The troupe have been chosen to represent Ireland at the competition in June and are appealing to everyone to support their fundraising efforts.
The Dance World Cup finals take place from June 27 until July 6 and will require the group to raise almost €40,000 to travel to Prague in the Czech Republic for the competition.
Alysia Arkins, who runs the Arkins Dance Academy on Sean McDermott Street. Pic: Gerry Mooney
Choreographer Alysia is mentor to more than 100 talented children at Arkins Dance Academy.
Members pay just €3 per class, but this is only “to cover electricity bills”.
“Sometimes it can be a struggle just to keep the heating on,” she said.
“At our dance school, we provide a supportive environment for children from working-class families and broken homes, despite facing challenges such as gang feuds, violence, child trafficking and addiction within our community.
“These children work tirelessly to become the best versions of themselves, and this opportunity would mean everything to them,” she added.
Girls from the Arkins Dance Academy practice one of their routines. Pic: Gerry Mooney
Multiple raffles and other events have been organised, which has led to the dance academy raising around €9,000 so far.
A run, in which several members of the local community took part, was also held recently on Sheriff Street.
The dance teacher highlighted the significance of this competition and the fact that this small group of children, who have worked so hard, are getting the chance to represent the whole country.
Arkins Dance Academy has seen some of its members pursue successful careers in the arts, achieving personal milestones and winning multiple awards for their dedication to dance.
Alysia mentioned that if 20 businesses rallied together to donate, it would be “life-changing” for the young dancers who will get to showcase their talents at a global level.
Twenty-eight girls from Arkins Dance Academy are hoping to travel to the Dance World Cup in Prague. Pic: Gerry Mooney
“We believe they have what it takes to bring home the gold, and any donations will provide these young stars with an unforgettable experience,” she added.
Daniel Ennis, who is running as a local election candidate in the north inner city for the Social Democrats, said what Alysia and her mother Francesca have achieved for young people in the area has been “nothing short of extraordinary”.
“These kids and group represent all that’s good about the north inner city,” he added.
