Eat, Sleep, Jive, Repeat!
In memory of Ballinagh local David O’Reilly, his dance club ‘JivinGym’ is preparing to host an energetic 14-hour danceathon for charitable causes.
‘Dance for David’ will start next Saturday, June 28, 11 am in the Fairways Hotel Dundalk and run until 1am Sunday. Organiser James McGrath promises a full day of “dancing, live music and mighty craic”.
David had been an enthusiastic member of the Jiving Club, recalls James. “He loved dancing. Eat, sleep, jive, repeat, was very much his motto. We want to celebrate David’s life by honouring it with the dance.”
James and his wife Hannah run the JivingGym with several classes held on a weekly basis in the Ulster region. In 2024, they organised a fundraiser in memory of James’ late mother. ‘Dance for Lucy’ managed to raise €132,000 for charities – which is what inspired the couple to repeat the event this year.
They want everyone to “get on down to Dundalk town” to celebrate the man “who lit up every dance floor with his energy, smile, and kindness”, urges James talking fondly of David.
With the expenses being covered by businesses such as entrepreneur and results consultant Steveyj, all proceeds will be going towards emotional and wellbeing charities, as well as helping to build a school in Madagascar, a cause close to the heart of David's family.
More than 200 dancers from all over Ireland and London have already bought their €20 entry ticket for the June 28 Danceathon. Kicking off at 11am in the morning, the event is “about celebrating joy while also giving back”.
James ensures people not to worry about abilities: “It’s for all ages and stages. Some of our sponsored dancers aren’t even dancing at all, they are just raising funds, which is great.”
As well as that, team members of the dancing club will be on hand to demonstrate jive steps and help with moves. Family tickets are also available for €50 (two adults, three children). “It will be a family fun day, we just want people to connect with each other through dancing and music.”
The line-up is exciting for any jiving fan: Irish Country legend Jimmy Buckley, who was David’s favourite singer, will be performing. David James and Philomena Begley are on the bill too, as well as many young and upcoming artists. Music will be played throughout the 14-hour danceathon with the live musicians swooping in for 30-minute slots.
With the wristband on, every participant can come and go as they please. James McGrath hopes people will embrace the full experience, letting the energy and vibe of the live music take over. “Dancing takes people away from the busyness of life and into a place of feeling good.”
All the while supporting a good cause. Information on JivinGym Facebook page, donations can be made via the Gofundme-Page, tickets also available on the day.