Lord of the Dance - Manchester Opera House (From Northwich Guardian)

Lord of the Dance - Manchester Opera House

9:36am Wednesday 4th January 2012 in Theatre & arts By Val Fylnn

EXPECTATIONS were high as we took to our seats eagerly anticipating the start of the phenomenon which is Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance, the touring sensation which has played to packed houses around the world and broken numerous records along the way.

What is it about this show? it is after all a tenuous tale of good versus evil based on Irish folklore and interpreted in dance. Sounds simple but add the Flatley touch and the magic begins.

A talented cast full of vitality and enthusiasm carries us through scene after scene, some fairylike as the girls sway and dance lightly, some fierce and fiery as the men dance with drumming heels, two beautiful fiddlers play a lively jig and a wonderful vocalist sings from the heart, all with stunning and ever changing visual effects projected behind.

I especially liked the fight between good and evil, the antagonists, stomping around the stage dressed like some futuristic dogs of war, and their counterparts challenging with lightening footwork. The sound of their drumming heels is overwhelming and sends a tingle down the spine, the audience are ecstatic. But it is when the whole troupe come together with the spectacular Lord of the Dance to lead them, that the real spirit of the dance shows. The stirring music and relentless rhythm of their tapping feet engage a rapturous audience who do not want them to leave, they call for more, but eventually the spectacle ends and reluctantly I, and they have to go.

An amazing and entertaining show, fast paced and lively, I would dance right back and see it again.

* Until January 8. Star rating - ****