Hidden Gems: Meet Kate O’Connor of O’Connor Kennedy Academy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate O’Connor.

Hi Kate, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
As a proud Los Angeles native growing up in the San Fernando Valley, I began Irish dancing at the age of four. I was encouraged by my Irish-born parents and swept up in the joy of dancing alongside my six brothers and one sister.

I went on to compete for many years — winning numerous open championships, becoming a Western U.S. Regional Champion, and placing in the top five at the North American Championships multiple times. When my competition days came to a close, I knew I wasn’t ready to step away. I chose to share my love and passion for Irish dance with the next generation through teaching. I became a certified teacher (TCRG) in 1995, earned my adjudicator credentials (ADCRG) in 2002, and received my Grade Examiner certification (BG) in 2016 — all through An Coimisiún Le Rincí Gaelacha.

My journey all began with a love of tradition. I grew up knowing Irish dance wasn’t just about the steps — it was about community, discipline, and joy. Starting my dance academy was my way of keeping that tradition alive and giving it space to grow. What began with a few dancers in a small community hall has grown into a vibrant, close-knit family of students who compete, perform, and celebrate Irish culture year-round.

For 18 years, I co-directed the highly successful Butler-Fearon-O’Connor School, where I was one of the principal instructors across Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego. In July 2021, after the retirement of my two longtime partners, I launched a new chapter alongside my son, Sean Kennedy, ADCRG, by returning to the school’s original family name: the O’Connor Kennedy Academy.

Together, we continue to share the joy and tradition of Irish dance with dancers across Southern California!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not — but I believe the most meaningful journeys rarely are.

One difficult chapter came in 2021, when my longtime partners retired after 18 years of building and running the school together. It was a time of major transition, uncertainty, and reflection. I had to decide whether to close that chapter of my life or continue the legacy — and ultimately, I chose to move forward by launching the O’Connor Kennedy Academy with my son, Sean.

That came with its own set of challenges: rebranding, rebuilding, and starting fresh — all while the world was still navigating the aftermath of COVID. During the pandemic itself, we had to pivot to online classes literally overnight and find ways to keep dancers engaged from their kitchens and living rooms. It wasn’t easy, but it brought our dance school closer together.

And on a personal level, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in 2016. I went through treatment twice, and I’m so grateful to say I’m now NED — no evidence of disease. That experience grounded me in a whole new way. It gave me a deeper sense of purpose and reminded me how precious every day is.

The road hasn’t been easy, but overcoming any obstacle makes you stronger!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about O’Connor Kennedy Academy?
At its heart, our dance school is about so much more than just Irish dance — it’s about building pride, confidence, and community through culture. We teach traditional Irish dancing to children, teens, and adults in Laguna Hills, Oceanside, Riverside and will be opening soon in Granada Hills, from absolute beginners to championship-level competitors.

Our dancers are trained in the technique and discipline of Irish dance, but we also emphasize creativity, personal growth, and team building. We tailor our approach to each dancer, meeting them where they are and helping them grow. Whether a student dreams of the World stage or simply wants to enjoy learning the basics of Irish dance, we create space for that. And we’re big believers in inclusivity. You don’t need Irish heritage to join us — if you’ve got passion, you’ve got a place here!

What sets us apart is our deep-rooted family atmosphere and multi-generational commitment to the art. I grew up dancing alongside my siblings, encouraged by my Irish-born parents. Now, I run the school alongside my son, Sean, continuing a tradition that has always meant the world to our family. I expect in a few years my two granddaughters will follow in our family’s footsteps!

Brand-wise, I’m proudest of the culture we’ve cultivated within our dance school. Our dancers support each other, push each other, and grow together. We’ve had students qualify for major international competitions and perform at high-level events — and those are certainly proud moments. But the moments that mean the most are the smaller ones: the shy dancer who blossoms in class, the teammates who cheer each other on, the child who walks in unsure and walks out beaming with confidence. That’s what it’s all about.

We’re always welcoming new dancers — kids, teens, adults, beginners, returners; you name it. No experience needed, just enthusiasm. We also love partnering with cultural festivals, schools, and community events to share the beauty and energy of Irish dance with everyone.

If you’re looking for something that builds discipline, confidence, friendship, and connection — you’ll find it here at O’Connor Kennedy Academy. Follow us on Instagram, come to one of our performances, or just share our story. We’re proud of what we do, and even prouder of who we do it with.

Pricing:

• New Beginner Students Starting at $85.00/Month

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.oconnorkennedy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oconnorkennedyacademy/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OCKAirishdance