JULY 2004

Let's Hear it for The Boys!!

Two Inishowen lads have been making quite a lot of noise in Irish Dancing circles, not only in the North West, but at the All-Ireland and even in the UK. Peter Wilson, age 11, from Moville and Odhran McLaughlin, age 7, from Gleneely, have let their taps ring out far and wide, all in pursuit of their dancing dream.

Although Odhran is too young to compete in the All-Ireland (minimum entry age is 10), he has distinguished himself as far afield as Scotland and England. He won the Championship at Lough Neagh in recent weeks. As for Peter, in his second appearance at the All- Ireland, he managed to win 2nd place in the Overall Championships for his age group.

Like most champion dancers, Peter and Odhran started at a very young age, 4 and 3 respectively. Both of the boys were inspired by dancers they knew. "I saw my sister Deirdre and I thought she was great." Odhran recalls. Odhran would like to perform professionally and he would like to teach too. Both of the boys are exceptionally dedicated, practicing every day and attending classes three times a week. From September to early July, their schedule gets really busy, with competitions at feiseanna almost every weekend. Odhran and Peter are pleased that there are a good number of boys dancing these days. Instead of relaxing during the summer months, when there is a break from competitions, the lads continue to practice, go to classes and perform at various exhibitions and festivals quite regularly.

As students with the Janet School of Dancing, the appear at the Clonmany Festival every year. In addition, there is a growing demand for their talents, at events such as nights at The Cairn, The Famine Village on the Isle of Doagh and at special events organised for visitors. They are also looking forward to dancing on cruise ships when they are older. The energetic pair's accomplishments are not confined to the world of Irish Dancing either. Peter plays the tin whistle as well, as does Odhran, who also does karate. "But we like dancing best," they say.

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