Rhythm of the Dance

Had the opportunity to see one of the best theatre shows I have experienced at the Hawth Theatre, in Crawley in West Sussex. When I arrived even before the show began, I was very impressed with the stage backdrop and side wings with their Celtic designs and when the lighting was operating during the show it was really something special. From the moment the show began it was sheer enjoyment and a delight to experience and the full house audience showed their appreciation with huge rounds of applause throughout. The combination of the music, dancing and singing was all of truly world class standard.

The dancers were just incredible how they have the skill and sheer endurance to do it still has me memorized. The musicians were all just so good in every respect and singing on another level. For the first time I experienced the most impressive bodhran solo and then a bodhran duo which I am still in awe about. Never knew anyone could get so many sounds from the instrument.

The show seamlessly wove from rousing audience participated with clapping to the slow airs and everything in between. I am not surprised the show has been going for 25 years and has toured worldwide and has received numerous international awards it truly transcends all languages. The cast had a very clever way of communicating with the audience to join in clapping and they responded each time clapping along enthusiastically.

The many and varied costumes were truly fabulous and appeared to always be just right for each section of the show. The choreography of the dancing was split second perfect absolutely amazing. It is not surprise to me that Rhythm of the Dance has played to sell-out audiences in over 50 countries and has been streamed online reaching more than seven million people in China. Over 7 million people have so far enjoyed this absolutely spectacular Irish show.

Not a surprise as it is truly a joy from beginning to end. I believe everyone around the world who has seen this Rhythm of the dance has a huge appreciation of Ireland and its people, hope if they visit, they don’t expect everyone in Ireland to sing and dance to that standard.

Gerry Byrne  IrishRadio.org