Celebrating a Southie Icon: Miss Peggy Marks 30 Years of Teaching Irish Dance
Let’s hear it for this Southie legend!
Miss Peggy (Peggy Woods Doherty) just celebrated 30 YEARS as a certified Irish dance instructor (TCRG) this past weekend, and South Boston couldn’t be prouder.
For three decades, Peggy has been shaping dancers — not just teaching steps, but building confidence, discipline, and community. Kids who train with her learn how to work hard, have fun, and carry themselves with pride… doing it with high kicks and big smiles.
Peggy’s been dancing for over 50 years, starting at just 5 years old under the legendary Southie Irish step teacher Mary Madden. A natural from the first jig, she became a Champion dancer, and at just fourteen, she danced in Dublin, Ireland — one of the highlights of her competitive career. Another milestone? Opening her very own school — The Woods School of Irish Dance — over 30 years ago, right here in her hometown of South Boston.
Peggy’s the teacher who remembers every kid’s birthday, cheers the loudest at a feis, fixes a wig in 0.2 seconds flat, and makes every dancer feel like a superstar. Vivacious, dedicated, and endlessly passionate — she’s built a legacy that will last generations.
Peggy grew up on Ticknor Street — second of five children to John and Mary (Bailey) Woods! She’s married to Shaun Doherty and mother to Sean and Delia. Grandmother to McKinnon.
So here’s to you, Miss Peggy — a role model, an icon, and a lifelong champion of Irish dance and South Boston spirit. Congratulations on 30 years as a TCRG… and cheers to 30 more!
Maureen Dahill is the founder of Caught in Media. Once a longtime wardrobe and prop stylist for brands such as Rue La La, TJ Max & Hasbro, she is a devoted lover of vintage clothing, Martini Mondays, Castle Island, AND a 4th generation South Boston native. Mother of three, married to Peter G.
CONGRATULATIONS. PEGGY, DID YOU LIVE IN E. 5TH ST BETWEEN L AND M? I THINK I KNOW YOU.