Lord of the dance – A lifetime of standing ovations
Two years on from celebrating it’s 25th anniversary – Lord of the dance is back on tour – celebrating a lifetime of standing ovations.
Based on the hymn of the same name, the Celtic style flamboyant dance show was created by Riverdance dancer Michael Flatley who gained twice as many audience members than the already popular show at a whopping 60 million.
The show is ultimately a tribute to the work of Michael Flatley who although isn’t in the production is still very much the star of the show.
Lord of the dance is a combination of traditional Celtic dance and music. It is a classic tale of good vs. evil. The story starts with Little Spirit dreaming of the Lord of the Dance (Matt Smith) who represents all that is good with the world. The Lord must fight the Dark Lord and his army of Lords who represent evil.
@BrianDoherty
The performers have been described as superhuman and that is certainly true. The athletic prowess of the dancers is astonishing. It is unimaginable how much training each performer must put in every day to keep up the level of fitness needed to maintain the spell bounding performances.
The performance was set to a digital backdrop which is favoured these days and was used throughout the show to denote the changes in mood. It provided an almost animated perspective of the show. From the Irish sea to the pits of hell, the technicolour scenes take us on a wild journey.
The choreography is seamless. Not one foot step is wrong nor tapped out of place and the speed of the footwork is faultless. The dancers’ change from lines and circles with effortless precision.
As well as dancing there is live music with an angelic singer as the Goddess Erin singing the characters thoughts and a talented violin duo jigging and playing their way through some toe tapping melodies.
A show perhaps for more older families as some younger children could find it scary. There is the occasional flinging of shirts but generally it is a greatopportunity for young people to see a classic show in their hometown.
What stands out most about Lord of the Dance is the theme of hope and freedom. Michael Flatley discovered creative expression with this production, and it can only inspire others to reach for their dreams. It shows us that good will aways win over evil and to stand up for your beliefs.
This is a show not to missed which will have you tapping your toes and clapping along in joy.
4 Stars
Lord of the Dance – A Lifetime of standing ovations is at The Regent Theatre until Sunday 8 September 2024. Ticket information HERE
Click here to add your own text
