The Keigher Academy of Irish Dance was established in 1999, and is under the direction of Susan Keenan and Holly McNichols.  The two sisters were both introduced to Irish dance at the young age of four.  They were both students of well known west coast schools such as the Kennelly school and Claddagh school of Irish dance.  They spent their childhood competing up and down the coast of California, attending local and regional competitions, and both acquiring championship level.

     Their love of the sport did not end there, although their dance shoes had long been retired.  Riverdance and then Lord of the Dance, had started making newsworthy headlines.  Irish Dance, which had at one time been almost unheard of, was suddenly splashed across the media.  The sisters, who had been known throughout their small community as having this dance background, were approached by old school mates requesting lessons for their kids.  Keigher Academy's humble beginning began with their first class being held in the garage of their childhood home.  Their chance to expand into a dance studio came when they were allowed an hour spot at the professional dance studio of Patsy Swayze (mother of the famous actor Patrick Swayze).  The Keigher Academy eventually relocated to Illinois in 1999, where it established itself in Joliet as a certified school with An Coimisium Le Rinci Gaelacha, and was able to grow succesful in an already saturated area of well know and established Irish dance schools.

     Keigher Academy strives to pass on the traditions of culture, but more importantly to provide a family like atmosphere where all students feel welcomed, encouraged and supported.  The instructors, who have experienced the techniques of several past teachers and mentors, have combined these styles along with their own, to create a positive atmosphere that motivates and challenges every child to reach their highest potential.