Barbara Joyce moved to the United States from Ireland 35 years ago. Since then, she has made it her mission to spread Irish culture to everyone she meets.

“I love it so much. I want to pass my culture on to the kids I teach. I danced from the ages of 7 to 16 in Ireland, and I want to teach them how much fun it is,” she said.

Joyce, who is currently the instructor of the Claddagh School of Irish Dance in Carrollton, is instructing a camp this week at Shorter University, where participants are learning about Irish dance and heritage.

“I like Irish dancing because it’s a good opportunity to learn a new dance, a new culture and the history of Ireland. It’s a good chance to meet new people, and it gives me a chance to challenge myself,” said C.J. DeHart, 11.

C.J. also competed in “Library Idol” on Monday, performing the Irish dance that she has been learning at camp.

“The dance is cool. I like it a lot, and I want to learn more,” said John Finn, 9.

Janet Baltzer, a helper at the camp, said she is delighted to be part of the experience and to be able to learn the unique dance.

“We really want to emphasize that the camp is not just about the dance but about the culture as a whole,” she said.

In the class participants wear “Ghillies,” shoes made for Irish dancing, and practice the cultural dance.

“It’s really fun to do, and it really teaches us about Ireland,” said Mackensie Turner, 7.

A handful of kids ranging from ages 7 to 14 are participating in the camp this week.

“I love it. I just flat out love it,” said Morgan Thomas, 13. “It’s a good chance to learn about another culture while having a lot of fun.”

Joyce said she plans to hold another Irish dancing workshop in July, and her weekly classes begin Aug. 11. For more information about the upcoming classes contact Joyce at 770-836-8757.

Chelsea Latta, a senior at Model High School, is an intern with the Rome News-Tribune.

Chelsea Latta, a senior at Model High School, is an intern with the Rome News-Tribune.