Today we’d like to introduce you to Madeline Mumford.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have had a passion for Irish dancing since I was eight years old, and first saw Irish dance at a school talent show. I grew up competing with the Goulding School of Irish Dance in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, until I moved to Dublin, Ireland to complete a Bachelors of Business Studies in the Global Business Program at Trinity College Dublin. Throughout university, I studied Irish dance under Nina Burke Irish Dance in Dublin, Ireland, and with Spreagadh na Rince in Sydney, Australia.
Highlights during my competitive career as a part of the An Comisiún Le Rincí Gaelacha (CLRG) Irish dance organization includes being a Solos World Qualifier, which only 1% of Irish dancers achieve in their lifetime, and winning Second in the World with my Senior Ladies Figure. I have also passed 12 CLRG Grade Examinations and earned the Diploma of the Irish Dancing Commission by CLRG.
I have competed and performed all over the world, including on a boat in the Arctic Circle, and teaching the significance and cultural history of St. Patrick’s Day in Dharavi, India. Other highlights include performing for head political figures in Rhode Island, being a spokesperson at one of the first Riverdance Academy Summer Events in Dublin, Ireland, and performing for the opening of the FIFA Women’s World Cup on the Unity Pitch in Australia.
I have since moved to Ponte Vedra, Florida in late 2024, and started my dance school in early 2025. My goal is to work hard to instill the same love and passion that I have for dance to anyone who is willing to learn.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Each challenge has been a meaningful step towards growth for Mumford Academy of Irish Dance. The hardest part has been raising awareness that Mumford Academy exists in PVB and that Irish dance, as a rich cultural art form, is now part of this community. Because it’s something new to the area, there’s been a beautiful kind of grassroots effort in introducing it; educating people about Irish dance’s heritage, artistry, and joy. Building that awareness takes time, but seeing our dancers connect with the music, movement, and culture makes every step of the process deeply rewarding.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Mumford Academy of Irish Dance?
Mumford Academy of Irish Dance is really a vibrant, welcoming community where people of all ages, from 2 to adult, can experience the joy of Irish dance. Our goal is to make Irish dance accessible and enjoyable for everyone, whether you’re brand new or returning to something you’ve always loved.
We focus on creating a safe, positive space where dancers can learn, grow, and have fun while discovering this incredible cultural art form. Every class blends technique and tradition with energy and creativity, so students not only learn steps but also connect with the music and heritage behind them.
What sets us apart is our sense of community. Irish dance is new to this area, so we’ve really made it our mission to build awareness and share the artistry and culture with others, as well as to partner with local businesses and encourage positive community outreach. It’s been amazing to watch dancers light up when they experience performing for the first time, and to see families and friends come together around something so joyful.
I’m most proud that Mumford Academy is known for being warm, inclusive, and fun. It’s more than just a dance class: it’s a place to stay active, make new friends, and be part of something creative and cultural. Whether someone joins for fitness, performance, or just to try something new, we love helping them discover the magic of Irish dance.
What matters most to you?
My students matter the most to me- not just their growth as dancers, but as people. I truly love Irish dance and the positive impact that it can have on every area of life. It teaches discipline, confidence, creativity, and joy, and I see those qualities come alive in my students all the time.
I take my role as a teacher seriously because it’s about so much more than executing proper technique, increasing fitness, or choreography. It’s about helping each dancer discover their own potential and feel proud of who they are. To play even a small part in that journey in any capacity, whether being able to witness a student light up when something clicks, or find confidence that they didn’t know they had, inspires me every single day. My hope is that every dancer who walks through our doors leaves not just stronger in their dancing, but also more confident, connected, and joyful in their everyday lives.
Pricing:
- Shamrock Starters Beginner Session- $13.50 /per class
- Little Leprechauns Tiny Tots Session- $10/ per class
- Reel Risers Advanced Mixed-Level Session- $13/50/ per class
- Celtic Cardio & Cocktails Adults- $15 Drop-In
- Hire for Professional Performances- Varies
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mumfordacademyirishdance.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mumfordacademyofirishdance/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559644275396
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MumfordAcademyofIrishDance
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mumford-academy-of-irish-dance-ponte-vedra-beach?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)
