Brenda Gant, 14, of Rogers, MN, first discovered Irish dance on her way to a karate competition that was sharing a venue with a feis (Irish dance competition). Brenda was fascinated by the dresses and the crowns. Her aunt took her along to the feis and after watching for a bit, Brenda declared “I can do that!” She was 4 years old and Brenda admits that she “did not realize the amount of dedication and hard work I had in store for me!” Brenda studies with the Hudson Academy of Irish Dance in Wayzata and tells us that “Irish dance is my passion, and I am so grateful I happened to be in the right place at the right time. I would not change that for the world.”
Brenda has shared her dance journey with her teacher, Paige Even. When Brenda started dancing at 4, Paige was 16 and became a role model for Brenda. Brenda says “(Paige) has shown me how to be a great teammate and support to my friends, and how to balance the ups and downs of Irish dance.” Brenda credits Paige with being with her for her “entire dance journey cheering me on, tying my shoes and helping me do my best.” (Just the kind of support you would want from a fine teacher!). Brenda also credits her best friend, Clare, who also dances with Hudson, with inspiration as she has a great work ethic and great attitude and is always being willing to help her run steps.
Brenda is a busy middle-schooler who enjoys a range of extra-curriculars, including skiing and snowboarding, competition dance and swimming.
Brenda has enjoyed performing at Irish Fair and at IMDA events at Landmark Center. She especially enjoys being with all the other dance schools and feeling the excitement. Brenda especially enjoyed the opportunity to perform with Hudson on the Jason Show a few years back. She also shared a special experience in taking a class with Riverdance lead Lauren Smyth and learning a festival style slip jig with her. And she participated in the Global Irish Dance talent contest Go Irish Dance. She placed as a finalist (and in the top 25%) and had a great time “putting together a Tik Tok style dance and participating.”
Brenda planned to use her grant for expenses related to participating in Nationals in Phoenix this past July. Brenda also hopes to participate in the Target Training program, which offers an OnLine Institute to help with conditioning and strength training.
The Irish Music and Dance Association is delighted to help this dedicated young dancer continue to pursue her goals and grow as a dancer.