San Diego’s Clan Rince School of Irish Dance Joins An Irish Christmas at the Balboa Theatre

A Special One-Night-Only Celebration

On Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 2:30 PM, the historic Balboa Theatre in San Diego will host one of the most anticipated performances of the season: An Irish Christmas. This year’s San Diego performance will feature a special homecoming, as ten talented guest dancers from the Clan Rince School of Irish Dance join the professional cast for one night only. Tickets range from $28–$75 and are available directly from San Diego Theatres.

Meet the Guest Dancers

Hailing from San Diego’s own Clan Rince School of Irish Dance, these young performers will step into the spotlight to share the stage with world-class dancers and musicians:

• Ella Zabrosky

• Ella Yerkes

• Kily King

• Kaya Fernandez

• Jacob Kramer

• Marie McCain

• Alaina Hawkins

• Ava Schneeberger

• Saoirse Lawlor

• Shay Reed

This exciting opportunity not only highlights San Diego’s vibrant Irish dance community but also gives these dancers the chance to perform alongside international professionals in front of a hometown audience.

Professional Dancers from Clan Rince in the Cast

Also representing Clan Rince in the professional company of An Irish Christmas are Layla Giles and Ellie Mendler, two highly accomplished dancers making their mark on the international Irish dance scene.

Layla Giles

Layla began Irish dance at age four and has spent over thirteen years competing and performing. A World Qualifier and Western U.S. Region Top 10 dancer, she has performed with the Na Scéalaithe Irish Dance Collective and made her debut with Kerry Irish Productions in St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland earlier this year. She recently danced on the historic Gaiety Theatre stage in Dublin as part of the Riverdance Summer Showcase. This season, Layla returns to the stage with An Irish Christmas, bringing her skill and artistry to San Diego audiences.

Ellie Mendler

Ellie has been training with Clan Rince for more than eight years and has quickly risen in the competitive ranks, placing 10th in the Western U.S. Region and representing her school at the CLRG World Championships. This past summer, she performed with Fusion Fighters at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Ireland’s largest traditional music and dance festival. An Irish Christmas 2025 marks her debut with Kerry Irish Productions, adding another milestone to her already impressive career.

About Clan Rince School of Irish Dance

Founded in 1998 by North American Champion Jeannie Thornton, the Clan Rince School of Irish Dance has been a cornerstone of San Diego’s Irish cultural community for more than 25 years. With studios in Kensington and San Marcos, Clan Rince is guided by a dedicated teaching team: Jeannie Thornton, Alisa Dosch, and Rori Ritchie.

Clan Rince—literally translated as “dance family” in Gaelic—emphasizes tradition, technique, and community. Students range from beginners to world-level competitors, and the school is known for its dynamic performances across San Diego, parades, and community events.

As registered teachers and adjudicators with An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha in Dublin, the school upholds the highest standards of Irish dance education.

Why This San Diego Show is Unmissable

• Local talent on a world stage: Audiences will see San Diego dancers perform alongside international professionals.

• Community pride: This event showcases the strength of San Diego’s Irish cultural scene.

• Exclusive opportunity: The ten Clan Rince guest dancers will appear at this performance only.

• Professional debut: Celebrate Layla Giles and Ellie Mendler’s journey from local training to international acclaim.

• Holiday tradition: An Irish Christmas blends music, storytelling, and dance into a family-friendly holiday celebration.

Event Details

• Show: An Irish Christmas featuring Clan Rince School of Irish Dance guest dancers

• Date & Time: Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 2:30 PM

• Venue: Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

• Tickets: $28–$75 – Buy Tickets Here

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the show family-friendly?Yes. An Irish Christmas is designed for all ages, with music, storytelling, and dance that captivate children and adults alike.

How long is the performance?

The show runs about two hours, including an intermission.

Where can I buy tickets?

Tickets are available at San Diego Theatres or via Ticketmaster.

Why is the San Diego show unique?

It features ten guest dancers from San Diego’s own Clan Rince School of Irish Dance, performing exclusively at the Balboa Theatre on December 21.

Celebrate the season in true Irish style. Witness the energy of local dancers alongside world-class professionals at An Irish Christmas in San Diego.

Tickets are $28–$75 and available now. Don’t wait to reserve your seats today and join us at the Balboa Theatre on December 21 for a holiday performance unlike any other!