ABOUT ARDAIGH SUAS
Our mission is to provide an energetic and supportive dance atmosphere that focuses on foundational technique and attention to individual dancer needs. Our fun and structured classes guide dancers with our top five values in mind: Strength, Empowerment, Motivation, Discipline, Community and Mentorship. The name Ardaigh Suas, meaning “rise up” in Gaelic, represents the literal lift and elevation required in Irish dance and our goal to elevate dance instruction to the next level. Our goal is to provide a versatile experience that includes skill development, cross-training to improve strength and flexibility, and mentorship that encourages and supports dancers on an emotional level.
MEET THE OWNER
Owner & Creative Director Ashley Cheek began her Irish Dance experience at the age of five with the Cross Keys School of Irish Dance in Chicago. It wasn’t long before she discovered her passion for both dance and competition. At the age of ten, Ashley qualified for her first World Championships and never looked back. Over the course of 13+ years, she traveled to countless local feisanna (competitions), Regional, National, and World Championships competing as a solo and ceili (group) dancer. Ashley began assistant teaching in classes when she was in 7th grade. She realized she not only loved coaching other dancers but also had a natural gift for mentoring. During her dance career, she helped numerous dancers improve their skills, confidence and sportsmanship while also developing friendships.
OUR VALUES
STRENGTH
Being physically and mentally strong not only contributes to dancer success but also provides a foundation for overall health. Strength can be found and developed in each and every dancer.
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DISCIPLINE
We believe dancers thrive with structured and efficient training. We encourage respect and effort in our classes in order to help dancers reach their highest potential and to instill life-long qualities in them.
MENTORSHIP
Providing a comfortable, safe, and fun atmosphere for dancers is our priority. We focus on developing meaningful relationships with dancers that will help guide them and provide them support in and outside the dance studio.
EMPOWERMENT
Athletes of all ages should have a voice in their training. Our instruction addresses individual needs and styles, allows dancers to bring their own creativity to their dance experience, and gives them the option to select a competitive or non-competitive route.
MOTIVATION
Irish dance is a balance between skillful training and maintaining a love for the art. We strive to keep our dancers engaged and encouraged through positive reinforcement, strategic class planning, and team events and performances.
COMMUNITY
Our team was formed by a combination of dancers from varying groups who have come together to build friendships, pursue goals, and encourage each other along the way. We aim to form a collaboration between teachers, dancers, and families to create an uplifting company.
GAIL M
TESTIMONIALS
Ashley is one of the most hard-working, supportive, and determined people I have ever met. She pushes you and stays positive with you even with the slightest improvement. She doesn't give up on teaching you and knows how to manage a fun and serious working environment. She works so hard for us and we love her to the moon and back.
BRENDA G
Ashley always pushed me to become a better dancer and person. She always makes sure her dancers feel proud of their accomplishments no matter how small it seems. Ashley is the most loving and supportive teacher and is always willing to help, not only in the studio, but outside too.
CAROLYN
Ashley has been one of the most influential people in my life today. As a dance teacher, she is very down-to-earth and understanding but pushes you to reach your full potential. Ashley adjusted her teaching to how I best responded, which improved my dancing more than any amount of practice could. She takes a genuine interest in all of her students and is there for every step of their dancing careers.
ERIN P
First off, you are such an amazing dance teacher. I learned so much from you in such a short period of time! You have made me in and out of dance feel so much more confident about myself. You have always been there for me and you have always pushed me to be the best dancer I can be.
CLARE G
Ashley taught me how to push myself further than I knew I could go. She was encouraging and helped me progress so much in my dance career. Ashley always had the “eye” that could tweak my footwork and took the time to perfect the nuances in my routines. I never left a private lesson without a purple face! No matter what competition I was in, she was always there cheering me on and genuinely cared how each one of her students did. I’m forever grateful for having such an amazing mentor and coach like Ashley!
PATRICE M
Ashley builds strong, lasting relationships with all of her students. She goes the extra mile to give each student what they need to succeed on and off stage. Ashley is a strong, passionate, inspiring woman that anyone can look up to.
LILY C
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Ashley has been such a strong influence in my life as a dance teacher and mentor. As a dance coach, she challenged me and saw my potential. She went out of her way to help me reach my goals and did so for so many other dancers too. Ashley is fun and encouraging, and she also knows how to push you to your best!
AVA L
Ashley was an absolutely amazing part of my 8 years of Irish dance! She has not only served as an outstanding coach to me, but also a true mentor and friend. Through dance practices, cross training sessions, and our talks about faith and life, Ashley’s naturally caring and empathetic personality always shines through and I could not be more excited for her to reach even more athletes!! Ashley is constantly willing to work with you and find specific ways to reach your personal goals, while incorporating tons of fun and mentorship!!! She always keeps a holistic view of her athletes in mind - while helping them accomplish their goals, she also helps them develop leadership, empowerment, strength both mentally and physically, and so so much more! I could not be more excited for her and her future journeys!!
OLIVIA K
Ashley has been training with me for about 2 years. She is very motivational and Dedicated to her Dancers. Her choreography is very unique and the perfect fit for each level. She’s an amazing role model to me, she’s always in an amazing mood and prepared for every class. she isn’t only a teacher but a best friend. She challenges me and other dancers to reach our potential. Ashley is the best dance teacher I have ever had!