More than 50 million people worldwide have seen Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance tour, the international Irish dancing phenomenon that has performed sold-out shows at theatres, arenas and stadiums in more than 45 countries.
Irish dance lovers and music fans alike will get their chance to experience the engaging, rhythmic adventure that has helped catapult Irish dancing into the global spotlight and created a massive wave of Celtic dance mania.
Returning to theaters across the United States this year, the tour is scheduled to dance its way into Freedom Hall Civic Center on Saturday, April 8, for one show only at 8 p.m.
Flatley, who originated the role of the lord, serves as the artistic director and continues to oversee all aspects of the production.
The first American to win the All-World Championship in Irish Dance, Flatley opened the show in Dublin in 1996. The Guinness Book of World Records lists Flatley for having “the world’s fastest feet” at 35 taps per second.
“Lord of the Dance has developed beyond my wildest dreams,” said Michael Flatley, creator of Lord of the Dance, said, “We have the greatest dancers in the world who bring their unrivalled skill, energy and enthusiasm to each performance, making them superstars in their own right.
Every night they captivate audiences with their infectious talent and I have just been so lucky to have them.”
Global ticket sales for Lord of the Dance exceed $500 million.
An estimated 2 million people attended Lord of the Dance while it held the extremely successful and highly acclaimed four-year residency in Las Vegas.
Described by the New York Post as “fascinating, rewarding and above all, entertaining,” and by the Los Angeles Times as “a showpiece extravaganza,” Lord of the Dance is a mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern Celtic music and dance.
The story is a classic tale of good vs. evil based on old Irish folklore as Don Dorcha, the Dark Lord, challenges the Lord of the Dance.
It is also a passionate love story that is expressed through dance numbers that transport audiences into a mystical and exhilarating world of intense passion.
The action is played out over 21 scenes, on a grand scale of precision dancing, dramatic music, colorful costumes and state-of-the-art staging and lighting.
The Lord of the Dance troupe features Irish dance champions from around the world.
These gifted performers, who have an average age of 22 years, stretch every boundary of a traditional form of dance that has evolved for more than 2,000 years.
“Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance has broken attendance records throughout the world,” said Lee Marshall, president of Magic Arts & Entertainment, the tour promoter and a veteran of many blockbuster entertainment events.
“Part of its charm is the ability to spirit audiences away to a wondrous place and time for a few hours. Lord envelops them like few shows can, with standing ovations the norm.”
Ticket prices are $29.50, $37.50 and $45.
Reserved seats are on sale now and will be available at the Freedom Hall Box Office or charge by phone at 461-4884. For more information, visit www.lordofthedance.com.