CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER
COLUMBUS, Georgia — A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland comes to Columbus on Wednesday, Dec. 11, with a performance 7:30 p.m. at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts.
With all the heart-warming spirit of an Irish Christmas, A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland offers up a night of thrilling music paired with jaw-dropping dance talent. This memorable blend of storytelling and Irish charm invites all ages to join in the spirit of “Nollaig Shona” (Happy Christmas).
For information and tickets, the public can visit ATasteofIrelandShow.com.
Featuring traditional high-energy Irish tunes, heartfelt ballads and favorite carols, A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland has toured to packed theaters around the world in a multidimensional show choreographed and produced by National Irish Dance Champion and Gaelforce Dance star Brent Pace, with Irish Dance World Champion and Lord of the Dance lead soloist Ceili Moore.
In A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland, audiences are immersed in the magnificence of Christmas in Ireland, transported to a land where energetic music and dance are the beating heart of the festive season. As lads croon their way along the cobblestone streets, filling the air with the rich sounds of Irish ballads, high-spirited lasses hit the floor with thunderous, powerful beats that resonate deep in the soul. Set against the enchanting backdrop of a snow-dusted Ireland, the show follows two star-crossed lovers, Oisín, a humble man from the rugged lands of Tyrone, and Ava, a spirited young woman from a wealthy family in Athenry, who find themselves drawn together under the mystical charm of the mistletoe. Their whirlwind romance blossoms into love, and then face harsh trials. But all ends well during a lavish Christmas ball, where the lovers reunite in a dramatic reunion that captures the spirit of hope, resilience and enduring love in a moment of festive joy.
Headliners for this tour include Gavin Shevlin, the two-time World Champion Irish Dancer who has performed in Lord of the Dance and Riverdance and starred in A Taste of Ireland Off-Broadway, along with his twin sister Niamh Shevlin, Top 5 in the World Irish Dance Championships, who starred as lead dancer in Lord of the Dance, winner of the Donegal Rose. Also starring in this production is Julia O’Rourke, a four-time World Champion who starred in the Irish dance film Jig; Master fiddler Megan McGinley, an Ulster Champion, All Ireland Finalist and Young Musician of the Year; Nicole Kelly, star of Lord of the Dance; Emily Grace, Top 5 World Championships; Hannah Cunniffe, World Medalist; Daniel McCormick, Top 5 World Championships; Thomas Doherty, star of Lord of the Dance; Ciaran Bagley, North American Champion and World Champion medalist; and Caleb Gringon World, All-Ireland, North American Nationals finalist. They join a cast of outstanding live musicians to perform in this rousing production. (Note: casting subject to change.)
Says Director and Producer Brent Pace, “For A Celtic Christmas we’ve curated a spectacular line-up, featuring unparalleled talents from around the globe. From world-class musicians to the most skilled Irish dancers of today, our stage is graced by the very best in the industry. Beyond the sheer technical brilliance that audiences love, what sets this show apart is the heart-warming spirit of the season that envelopes the entire production.”
