Kildare Academy of Dance raises money for autism network
Cheque presentation at The Kildare Academy of Dance school to Kildare Autism Network. It features Kildare Academy of Dance teachers Miss Danielle Moran and Miss Jenny Mac Mahon, and some of the students, and representatives from Kildare Autism Network, Elaine and Maria. The €855 was raised through the KAD show in the Moat Theatre, Naas in June, Lights, Camera, Dance!, and was donated to Kildare Autism Network Photo: Colette McNally
THE STAGE at the Moat Theatre in Naas came alive in June 2026 when Kildare Academy of Dance presented Lights, Camera, Dance!
The show celebrated the hard work, creativity and courage of its dancers. Behind the scenes, the academy was working to make the theatre a welcoming place for every performer. On top of that, a fabulous €855 was raised through the raffle at the show for Kildare Autism Network.
Run by volunteers, the network brings people together around autism in the local community. Its work is close to the Kildare Academy of Dance’s heart, and the raffle was a way for dancers and families to show their support.
Principal Miss Jenny Mac Mahon has been educating herself on neurodiversity, and with this in mind, has been teaching through a new lens. Her aim is to create a safe learning environment where students feel understood, supported and able to reach their full potential. That approach has helped shape the academy’s work both in the studio and on stage.
Kildare Academy of Dance was named a finalist in the Golden Dance Awards for Diversity, Inclusion & Equality. Miss Jenny is also up for a Dance Educator award in recognition of her proactive and innovative approach to teaching For some dancers, the excitement of a show can come with uncertainty: an unfamiliar building, bright lights, new sounds and a busy backstage area. The academy introduced social stories so performers could see what to expect ahead of time. This gave dancers and their families space to prepare, ask questions and approach the experience with greater confidence.
Morning and afternoon performances also featured raised auditorium lighting and lower music levels to make the experience more comfortable for performers and families in the audience. These thoughtful changes help to create an environment where more people can enjoy the excitement and pride of show day.
Kildare Autism Network is always looking for new members. Anyone interested in getting involved can email kildareautismnetwork@gmail.com.
