When we learned that the only queer-owned Irish dance academy on the island was founded by a fabulous gay man, we knew we had to share his story with our Newport OUT fam! Meet Clann Lir Academy of Irish Dance, founded by Irish native Anthony Fallon (he/him).
Anthony’s journey is nothing short of impressive! His background includes performing at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, touring with Riverdance across Europe, Asia, and North America, and even dancing for Queen Elizabeth II, Barack Obama, and the President of China! We have to admit, the Queen of England fact especially has us fangirling.
While Anthony’s accomplishments are undeniably impressive, what truly resonates with us at OUT is his success as a gay man running the only queer owned dance studio in Newport County. Across all the businesses we've featured in our OUT & About series, one common thread stands out: the ability to turn challenges into fuel for something extraordinary. Anthony is no exception—his unwavering commitment to inclusivity is at the very heart of his academy’s mission.
“As a studio and small business owner, inclusiveness is my main priority,” he told us. “We’re fortunate to have students from all walks of life, and I love seeing them share space with others from diverse cultural backgrounds, heritages, and learning experiences.”
Anthony has also been able to build strong ties with already strong Newport Irish community through his academy. Though he is based in Providence, he has made an influence on the local Irish dance scene and beyond.
Each February, Clann Lir Academy hosts a major Irish dance competition, drawing thousands of young step dancers from across the country to Newport. This year, OUT had the chance to attend the event at Newport Harbor Island Resort, where we saw Anthony in action. Between managing dance moms and chatting with world-renowned Irish step dancing judges, we were able to buy him a drink and learn more about his journey.
“I started dancing at the age of three in Dublin and began competing at six and went on to have a very successful competitive career. My main highlight was being crowned the World Irish Solo Dance Champion four years consecutively from 2000 to 2004. That chapter of my life was incredible, but I’m so happy to be settled in Rhode Island now, creating the kind of competition I would have dreamed of as a young gay Irish step dancer.”
Through Clann Lir Academy, Anthony is not only preserving the rich traditions of Irish dance but also fostering an inclusive, affirming space where LGBTQ+ dancers—and all students—can thrive. It’s inspiring to us, thinking about the next generation of Irish step dancers entering the professional world with a foundation of inclusivity and support, nurtured in their Newport hometown dance studio!
Click here to learn more about the Clann Lir Academy of Irish Dance by Anthony Fallon or visit them at 390 W Main Rd in Middletown!
💙 OUT & About is a series that highlights queer and ally small businesses, artists, and community change-makers. To submit someone for this ongoing series, reach out to info@newportout.com 💙
Comments