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Siobhan O'Connell, Latin dance instructor and events coordinator

Siobhan O'Connell

Senior Latin Dance Events Editor

ruletie Limited

"Dance isn't about age—it's about joy, connection, and rediscovering movement at any stage of life. I've spent the last 14 years creating spaces where adults over 45 can explore bachata and salsa without judgment, and honestly, it's been the most rewarding work of my career."

Siobhan O'Connell
Who I Am

Over a Decade of Latin Dance Leadership

I discovered my passion for Latin dance while living in Barcelona for two years after finishing my studies at Dublin Institute of Dance Arts in 2010. The energy, the music, the way dance brought communities together—I was completely hooked. But when I came back to Dublin in 2012, I noticed something that surprised me. There were virtually no social dance events for adults over 45. That gap kept bothering me.

The thing is, I'd see older learners in traditional classes, and they'd often seem uncomfortable, like they didn't quite belong. So I started thinking differently. What if we built spaces specifically for mature learners? What if we removed the intimidation factor and focused on joy instead? That question became my mission.

Over the past 14 years, I've coordinated hundreds of social dance meetups throughout Dublin, Cork, and Limerick. We've engaged over 2,000 participants. I've developed beginner-focused curricula that actually work for people who haven't danced since their twenties. I've established weekly social events in Dublin's Temple Bar district that have become genuine community hubs. And I've learned that adults returning to dance have unique needs—patience, clear instruction, and most importantly, permission to have fun without being perfect.

My approach prioritises building confidence first. Technical skill comes naturally when people feel safe. That's been the foundation of everything I've created, and it's why so many participants have told me that dancing with us changed how they see themselves.

Background

Education & Professional Journey

2010

Dance Pedagogy Studies

Completed degree in Dance Pedagogy at Dublin Institute of Dance Arts, with specialisation in adult learner development and community-based instruction.

2010-2012

Barcelona Dance Experience

Spent two years in Barcelona studying authentic Latin dance culture, training with local instructors, and deepening expertise in bachata and salsa technique.

2012

Dublin Community Initiative Launch

Returned to Dublin and established the first weekly social dance meetup specifically designed for adults over 45, initially meeting in Temple Bar with just eight participants.

2014-2018

Program Expansion Across Ireland

Expanded beginner-friendly salsa classes to Cork and coordinated community dance gatherings in Limerick. Developed proprietary curriculum for mature learners that's now used by instructors nationwide.

2018-Present

Senior Editor & Thought Leader

Appointed Senior Latin Dance Events Editor at ruletie Limited. Regularly contributes educational content about Latin dance culture, technique, and community building. Featured in Irish dance publications and recognised as trusted authority on making dance accessible to mature learners.

What I Do

Areas of Specialisation

14 years of focused expertise in Latin dance education and community event coordination for mature adults across Ireland.

Bachata & Salsa Events

Specialising in creating welcoming social dance events specifically designed for adults over 45. We've coordinated hundreds of meetups throughout Dublin's Temple Bar district, Cork, and Limerick, building genuine community around Latin dance.

Beginner-Focused Instruction

Developed proven curricula for adults returning to dance after years away. I understand the unique challenges mature learners face—from building confidence to managing physical concerns—and I've created step-by-step approaches that actually work.

Community Building

More than just teaching steps, I build communities. Over 2,000 participants have engaged with programs I've coordinated. The friendships formed, the confidence gained—that's what matters most to me in this work.

Educational Content

Regular contributor to dance publications and educational platforms. I write about technique, culture, and accessibility in Latin dance. My focus is always on demystifying the art form and making it feel achievable for everyone.

Inclusive Programming

Every program I develop is built on the principle that dance belongs to everyone. Age isn't a barrier—it's just context. I've created inclusive spaces where beginners feel genuinely welcome and can progress at their own pace.

Program Development

Designed curricula now used by instructors across Ireland. I focus on clear progressions, manageable learning curves, and real-world application. Programs adapt to what mature learners actually need, not what traditional dance instruction assumes.

Key Achievements

14

Years of Latin Dance Expertise

2000+

Participants Engaged Across Ireland

3

Major Cities: Dublin, Cork, Limerick

500+

Social Meetups Coordinated

Featured Writing

Educational Resources & Articles

Exploring Latin dance technique, community, and accessibility for mature learners.

Bachata Nights in Dublin Temple Bar — What to Expect

May 4, 2026

A detailed guide to the weekly bachata social events in Temple Bar. I've covered what to expect, what to wear, how to approach partners, and why Temple Bar has become the heart of Dublin's mature dance community.

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Beginner Salsa Classes in Cork — Getting Started

May 1, 2026

A practical resource for anyone thinking about starting salsa in Cork. I've included information about class structures, what beginner-friendly really means, and how to find the right environment for your learning style.

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Social Dance Meetups in Limerick — Community Gatherings

April 28, 2026

Limerick's dance community is thriving. In this piece, I explore how community-driven social gatherings work, why they matter for mature learners, and how Limerick has built something genuinely special.

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Basic Latin Dance Steps — Footwork Fundamentals

April 24, 2026

A foundational guide to the basic footwork patterns in salsa and bachata. I've broken down each step, explained the weight shifts, and included common mistakes I see beginners make—and how to avoid them.

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Want to Learn More?

Explore our complete collection of Latin dance resources, find events near you, or get in touch with any questions about getting started with bachata and salsa.