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Spirit & Performing Arts at Iona
Where Creativity, Community and Gael Spirit Come to Life
Whether you’re a future Gael imagining your life at Iona University or a current student looking to find your rhythm on campus, our Spirit & Performing Arts groups are where your passion meets the spotlight.
Open to students from all academic majors, these groups give you the opportunity to sing, dance, act and make music alongside fellow Iona students. From pep bands and cheerleading to musicals and choirs, you can build your community and pursue your talents outside the classroom.
Ready to feel our spirit in action? Explore our performance arts groups.
Alyssa Green ’26
Two-time KCACTF Top Musical Theatre Performer (2023, 2025) and Runner-Up (2024) | Theatre
Hometown: Hamden, CT
“I have joined many organizations under performing arts, and each one of them feels like family. Iona has helped me find my passion for performing through the Iona Players and has given me the platform to network and hone my talents. This is what I love to do so it’s easy to go with the flow of everything I have going on.”
Why Join Iona’s Performance Arts Groups
Refine Your Skills and Build Discipline
At Iona, skill-building happens in community. Whichever spirit or performing arts group you join, you’ll level up your abilities through consistent practice, performance experience and hard work. Day by day, you’ll develop confidence, sharpen your craft and grow as a performer alongside peers.
Deepen Your Ties to Our Campus Community
Gael Nation is stronger with your voice. Participating in one of our Spirit & Performing Arts groups connects you with students invested in art, performance and Iona. As you collaborate, rehearse and boost school spirit, you build lasting friendships and contribute to the vibrancy of our student body.
Perform on Campus, in NYC and Beyond
As a member of Iona’s Spirit & Performing Arts groups, you’ll perform at campus traditions like Homecoming, Commencement and athletic events—or take the stage beyond campus. Located just 20 miles from New York City, Iona offers opportunities to perform at iconic venues and events, including Radio City Music Hall and the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Find Your Creative Community
Discover the talented student groups that bring our creativity and school pride to life.
Dance Groups
Iona Dance Team
Energize Gael Nation. As a member of the Iona University Dance Team, you have the exciting opportunity to dance at sporting events and Homecoming, engage the community by performing at service and fundraising events and compete at the prestigious Universal Dance Association (UDA) College Nationals.
Julianna Meditz ’27
Dance
Hometown: Glendale, NY
“Being on the Dance Team has truly shaped my Iona experience. It has given me a place where I feel supported, challenged and excited to show up every day. Bringing so much energy to game days with my teammates is something I look forward to; it is amazing to see how our game day spirit lifts the whole arena. Taking on a captain role along the way has pushed me to grow as a leader in ways I never expected, from learning how to guide others to trusting my own voice. The friendships, confidence and memories I have made on this team are a huge part of why I feel so connected to Iona.”
Iona Irish Dance
Iona Irish Dance offers performance and competition opportunities for dancers of every level. Since its founding in 2021, this group has performed at major campus events and NYC traditions, including the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, with a championship-winning competition team and an inclusive ensemble open to all.
Kaelin Donahue ’29
Irish Dance
Walpole, MA
“Coming in as a freshman, I was so excited to be a part of the performing arts Irish Dance team. Irish Dance has always been a big part of my life, and joining the team was a great opportunity to continue to share my love for Irish Dance in college. This past November the competition team performed at Villanova, and it was a pleasure to be a part of something so special. I have already made friendships that I know are going to last a lifetime. Irish Dance is a welcoming place where we come together as a team to practice hard and spread our culture.”
Iona University Gold Line
The Iona University Gold Line is an HBCU-style dance team that brings bold energy and spirit to our community. Performing at basketball games, Homecoming and the Black Student Union's Culture Show, Gold Line delivers high-impact performances full of rhythm, talent and pride.
Additional Dance Opportunities
Iona Bailando Con Sazón
Celebrate Latinx culture with Bailando Con Sazón. Led by students, this group shares Latin music and dance by performing at campus events throughout the year, including Homecoming, and hosts an annual showcase. Students of all backgrounds are welcome to audition.
Iona Dance Club
Join the Iona University Dance Club, a student-led community where dancers of all levels come together to grow as performers. No prior experience is required—just bring your energy, rhythm and curiosity.
Iona Step Team
Recognized for their precision and discipline, the Iona University Step Team embodies what it means to be a Gael. This student-led group performs at Maroon Madness, the Spirit & Performing Arts Showcase and other campus events.
Music Groups
Iona Singers
Raise your voice by joining the Iona Singers and performing at major campus events and concerts throughout the year. Since 2022, they’ve also opened the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Our group is open to students of all majors and musical backgrounds and creates a place for you to share your talents.
Iona NightinGaels
Founded in 2023, the Iona NightinGaels are the University’s select a cappella ensemble, known for rich harmonies and a contemporary sound. As a part of the Iona Singers program, you can advance your skills as a vocalist and enjoy an experience rooted in artistry, collaboration and community.
Iona Pipe Band
Since 1966, the Iona University Pipe Band has stood as a powerful symbol of Gael pride and Celtic tradition. The band performs at major campus events and across the tri-state area, including in New York City. Open to both experienced musicians and beginners eager to learn, the Pipe Band offers camaraderie and the chance to be part of one of Iona’s most cherished groups.
Tommy Spillane ’26
Pipe Band
Hometown: Farmingdale, NY
“The Pipe Band has played a significant role in shaping who I am today. It has surrounded me with amazing people ranging from current students to alumni and even long-time bagpipe lovers. The most enjoyable time of the year is March; the band travels across the tri-state area and marches in 8 or more parades, each in a different city. The experiences I have had and the friendships I have made over the past four years have allowed me to look back and be thankful for going to Iona and becoming active on campus.”
Iona Pep Band
The Iona Pep Band, founded in 2015, unites musicians to power game-day energy. Boost your fellow students’ Gael spirit by playing at basketball games, campus events, Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, followed by (MAAC)tournaments and even at the Intercollegiate Pep Band All-Stars Showcase. If you play an instrument and can read sheet music, we invite you to audition and join us!
Kade Hennessy ’27
Pep Band
Hometown: Wantagh, NY
“Music has always been a very important part of my life. It mattered deeply to me that I could continue that passion in college, even though I did not plan to major in music. What made my performing arts experience truly memorable was the people I met along the way. The classmates that I started with my freshman year became the musicians I grew alongside and the lifelong friends I gained, supporting and learning from one another every step of the way. Knowing I have the constant support of my peers and my director has given me a sense of familiarity, belonging and a true home away from home at Iona.”
Spirit Groups
Iona Cheerleading
Be a part of a high-performing group dedicated to school spirit by joining the Iona University Cheerleading team. As a member, you build advanced cheer, dance and tumbling skills and support our athletic teams. You can also spread Gael pride by competing at the Universal Cheer Association (UCA) College Nationals.
Killian the Gael: An Iona Icon
Meet Killian the Gael, our cherished mascot, who spreads school spirit across campus and our New Rochelle community. From campus celebrations and athletic events to cheering on the Gaels at MAAC and NCAA Basketball Tournaments, Killian brings Iona pride wherever he goes.
Theatre Groups
Iona Players
Whether you’re ready to take center stage or provide support behind the scenes, join the Iona Players. Our student theatre organization produces major stage productions under professional direction and has earned regional recognition at the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. We’re proud to offer ongoing opportunities for performers and technicians through shows, cabarets and student-led projects.
Tristen Rosa ’27
Singers | Theatre
Hometown: Bronx, NY
“I can say the performing arts at Iona helped to form my college experience. These clubs have given me a platform to showcase my skills and hard work and I get to do so along with some of my closest friends. I also had the honor of joining the executive board for both Singers and Players this year and have had a great time working alongside like-minded leaders who want to watch this community grow and thrive. These groups have given me so much more than just a club to go to, but a family to learn and grow with.”
Join Iona’s Spirit & Performing Arts Programs
Feeling inspired? Discover how you can participate in our Spirit & Performing Arts community.
Audition Process
Students interested in dance, music, theatre or spirit groups should review the audition process for more information. Please note that auditions are used solely for grant consideration and do not affect your ability to participate in your chosen performing arts group.
Sing the National Anthem at an Iona Gaels Game
At Iona, interested students can apply to sing the national anthem at our home basketball games. Review our frequently asked questions to learn more about qualifications, the application process and performance attire.
Study Performing Arts
With minors in music, dance, theatre and more, Iona makes it easy to integrate the performing arts into your education. Whether you’re cultivating a long-held passion or exploring something new, you can study the arts alongside whichever major you choose.
Join Us All Year Long
2025–2026 Key Performing Arts Events
Homecoming
Mazzella Field • Oct. 17–18, 2025
The Wizard of Oz
Murphy Center • Oct. 18–26, 2025
Iona Men’s & Women’s Basketball Home Games
Hynes Center • Nov. 2025–Feb. 2026
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Radio City Music Hall • Nov. 11, 2025
Irish Dance Intercollegiate Competition
Villanova • Nov. 16, 2025
Iona Singers & Nightingales Fall Concert
Sommers Center • Nov. 20, 2025
UDA College Dance Nationals
Orlando • Jan. 14–19, 2026
UCA College Cheerleading Nationals
Orlando • Jan. 14–19, 2026
Irish Culture Show
Murphy Auditorium • Feb. 6, 2026
BSU Culture Show
Murphy Auditorium • Feb. 20–21, 2026
Disney Showcase & Workshop (NightinGaels)
Orlando • Feb. 19–22, 2026
MAAC Basketball Tournament
Atlantic City • Mar. 5–10, 2026
MAAC Spirit Showcase
Atlantic City • Mar. 6, 2026
MAAC Band Jam
Atlantic City • Mar. 7, 2026
NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade
New York, NY • Mar. 17, 2026
Sister Act
Murphy Center • Apr. 10–12, 2026
Contact Us
Spirit Squads
Cheer • Dance Team • Gold Line • Killian the Gael
Contact: Kristie DiZenzo, Director of Spirit Squads, kdizenzo@iona.edu
All Other Spirit & Performing Arts Opportunities
To learn more about Spirit & Performing Arts opportunities at Iona email us at performingarts@iona.edu or request information today.
Find Out what an Iona Education Can Do For You
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