One of the most inspiring Creative Ireland projects delivered in Kilkenny in 2025–2026 was the Global Dance Club, an initiative led by members of Kilkenny’s international protection community that celebrated cultural diversity, creativity, inclusion and belonging through dance.
Over a six-month period, participants came together in a welcoming and supportive environment to learn, share and perform dance traditions from around the world. The programme explored an exciting blend of styles, including:
- Irish Dance
- Afrobeats
- Salsa
- Somali Dhaanto
- Bollywood
- Jive
- Samba
- Traditional Ukrainian Dance
The project demonstrated how creativity can build connections across cultures, foster friendships, and create meaningful opportunities for participation within the community. Participants not only developed their artistic skills but also gained confidence, leadership experience, and a greater sense of belonging within Kilkenny.
As the programme evolved, the group became a vibrant cultural ambassador for diversity in the county. In 2026, members performed at several high-profile public events, including:
- Patrick’s Day Parade
- Sheep Shearing Festival, Graiguenamanagh
- Africa Day Celebrations
- World Refugee Day
These performances showcased the richness of the cultures represented within the group and highlighted the positive contribution of new communities to the cultural life of Kilkenny.
The success of the Global Dance Club extended far beyond performance. The initiative empowered participants from seldom heard communities to take ownership of the project and develop the confidence to continue its legacy. As a result, members are now progressing towards establishing the Global Dance Club as an independent community-led group, ensuring the relationships, creativity and cultural exchange fostered through the programme can continue to grow into the future.
The Global Dance Club stands as a powerful example of Creative Ireland’s vision in action—demonstrating how creativity can strengthen wellbeing, promote inclusion, celebrate cultural identity and build stronger, more connected communities.
As the group embarks on its next chapter as a community organisation, it leaves behind a lasting legacy of creativity, friendship and intercultural understanding, while creating exciting opportunities for future generations to participate, perform and belong.
