Honoring Tim O’Hare

For more than 40 years, the O’Hare School of Irish Dance has stood as a pillar of tradition, excellence, and community — and at the heart of that legacy is Tim O’Hare, whose passion, leadership, and integrity shaped generations of dancers.

Tim O’Hare began his journey in Irish dance at just five years old in Detroit, Michigan. By age 10, he had already claimed his first National title — a sign of the extraordinary path ahead. Over the course of his competitive career, Tim earned six additional National titles, two Regional titles, and, most notably, back-to-back World Championship titles in 1976 and 1977 — a rare and remarkable achievement that cemented his place in Irish dance history.

In 1979, Tim founded the Tim O’Hare School of Irish Dance in Plymouth, MI. Fueled by a deep love of the art form and a desire to pass it on, he went on to grow the school into one of the most respected Irish dance programs in North America. By 1996, his school had expanded to include locations in Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois, bringing world-class instruction to countless families and dancers.

For Tim, teaching was never just about technique — it was about nurturing confidence, discipline, friendship, and pride in cultural heritage. His students knew they were learning from someone who truly believed in them.

Tim's contributions extended far beyond the studio.

As President of IDTANA, Vice-Chair of An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha (CLRG), and a member of the Oireachtas Committee, Tim was a tireless advocate for fairness, opportunity, and excellence in Irish dance. His reputation as a respected adjudicator and selfless volunteer made a lasting impact across the international dance community.

Tim O’Hare was known for his generosity of spirit, unwavering ethics, and love for the dance — and the people — he served. He gave selflessly to his students, his colleagues, and the community that meant everything to him.

Today, his legacy lives on through the dancers he trained, the leaders he inspired, and the vibrant tradition of Irish dance he helped preserve and elevate.