Review: Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance 30
When Michael Flatley, Jean Butler and a talented group of musicians and Irish dancers burst onto the stage of Dublin’s Point Theatre during the Eurovision Song Contest interval on April 30, 1994, millions of viewers witnessed something entirely new.
Riverdance became the most famous interval act in Eurovision history, transforming traditional Irish dancing into a groundbreaking theatrical art form.
Within a year, Riverdance had evolved into a full-length stage production that continues to tour today. Flatley, however, left the show and launched his own spectacular, Lord of the Dance, in 1996.
I saw the original production in London shortly after Flatley’s departure and loved every second of it. I bought both the video and the soundtrack CD and played them regularly for my toddler daughter. It’s hard to believe that was 30 years ago. That same daughter, now a young woman, joined me for this performance and was every bit as captivated as I was.
This latest production, which visited Bradford Live earlier this month, feels as vibrant, energetic and fresh as ever. The cast is exceptional. Macaulay Selwood takes the title role of the Lord, while Thomas Doherty commands the stage as his nemesis, the Dark Lord. The chemistry between them is magnetic.
They are joined by Nicole Kelly as Saoirse, Bella Rogers as Morrighan and the delightful Evia Hayter as the Spirit. The outstanding ensemble of 25 dancers, alongside fiddle players Helena Gullan and Siofra Devine and vocalist Lorna Collins, complete a hugely talented company.
The story is straightforward—essentially a battle between good and evil—and that is really all you need to know. More importantly, you do not need to be a dance enthusiast to enjoy the show. Its appeal is universal.
Every aspect of the production is polished and professional. The costumes are stunning, Selwood’s athletic high kicks are breathtaking, and the precision of the ensemble dancing is remarkable.
My only criticism is that Michael Flatley appears on screen three times during the performance, somewhat overshadowing the young cast. I appreciate that it is his show, but a single appearance would have been enough to remind audiences of his legacy.
Lord of the Dance is currently midway through an extensive UK and European tour. The next Yorkshire dates are at York Barbican from July 6–8, Hull New Theatre from July 22–25, and Sheffield City Hall from August 20–23. For more information, visit lordofthedance.com