Name: Liam Kenny
Age: 08
Dancing level: Primary/Intermediate
School: Tir na nOg - Kaiserslautern
Interview with Liam Kenny, May 28, 2007
How are you today?
Liam: I am feeling pretty good.
When did you start Irish dancing?
Liam: When I was just five years old I attended Irish dance Camp on Ramstein Air Force Base with Ms. Mary Sweeney.
Do you do any other types of dance or have any other hobbies?
Liam: I have hobbies, I play several sports. Baseball in the spring, Football (Soccer) in the fall, and Basketball in the winter. I also like to read and play games with my family and friends.
How did you get involved or hear about Irish dancing in Kaiserslautern and what made you want to learn this form of dance?
Liam: My Mom was reading a bulletin board about the Summer Irish Dance Camp, and I thought it would be fun. My mom said it wasn’t just for girls. I had so much fun at the camp, and thought it was challenging, so I continued to take Irish dance lessons.
When did you compete at your first Feis? Do you remember how you felt on the day? Where you nervous?
Liam: It was a class Feis in Ramstein Community Center. I was nervous and excited at the same time. I was only five and received an honorable mention and a medal for my easy reel.
At what point did you realize that you wanted to take your Irish dancing further and become more of a serious competitor?
Liam: After my first feis, I knew I wanted to win a big trophy and get more competitive.
What do you like about Irish Dance?
Liam: I like to go to feises! I like to compete and travel to see cool places and things. I meet many new friends and have fun with old friends. We have lots of fun. I also like to try different types of food and learn things about the different countries.
What has been your greatest achievement in Irish dancing so far?
Liam: I won my St. Patrick’s Day Dance the very first time I danced it at a feis! (Wassaner Feis, Holland)
What was the first thought that went through your head when you won your St. Patrick’s Day dance?
Liam: I was glad that I won, but knew I would have to dance it in the primary, intermediate and open levels.
Where and when was your last competition, how did you do?
Liam: The last Feis I did was the Salzburg Feis in Austria. I won the most trophies and medals to date and my grand parent’s were there to see me.
If you had to adjudicate a Feis what would be the three most important things you would look for in a dancer?
Liam: 1. Dance with the music!
2. Look straight ahead!
3. Hands by your side!
How many classes do you attend a week and how much extra practice do you do at home?
Liam: Two times a week. My practice at home really depends on how much time I have between homework and activities. But I like to do little parts when I am walking or standing around!
Do you have any good luck charms or any special routine you must do before competing?
Liam: I like to warm up, Ms. Mary makes me do a little dance before we go on stage. Before I dance I wink at my Mom and Dad.
Has anyone or anything been an inspiration to you during your Irish dancing?
Liam: Seeing “Lord of the Dance” and my Dad’ Irish heritage. I also like to watch my friend Gary dance, I would like to dance like him someday. But most of all Ms. Mary’s encouragement to keep on going and doing the best we can!
What are your goals/ambitions for the future in regards to dancing?
Liam : I want to get into the open level, like my friend Gary!
What advice would you give to other people who are just starting out in Irish Dance?
Liam: Don’t think that you can not do it, keep trying and have fun! Do not just be in it for the trophies!
Thank you Liam and best of luck with your dancing!!!
Liam: I know it isn’t all about the trophies but I love this picture!!! Thank you! Bye!!!
