The Murphy Irish Arts Center was founded in 1978 by Sheila Murphy Crawford. Sheila is a certified Irish Dance Instructor and Adjudicator of An Commissum - the world governing organization of Irish Dance. In addition to her support of the Center, Sheila is an active member of the Cleveland Irish Community, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the Irish Cultural Gardens.

At Murphy Irish Arts Center, both boys and girls participate.  The dancers range in age from 5 to 55. Irish heritage is not required, all nationalities are welcome.  The Murphy Irish Dancers are dedicated to preserving Irish culture and the art of Irish dance.